by Bethanne Atton

Created on: September 19, 2008   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

Most people would agree that horses are intelligent. In addition, people agree that horses can be dangerous. There are plenty of terms to describe a horse that doesn't act like it should. Barn sour, head shy, rogue, above the bit, below the bit, uncollected and the list goes on. For a moment consider the arsenal of training equipment available to fix some of these problems. Most are aimed at "control" of the horse. Simply said it becomes a "do as I say or else" attitude. But what about the feelings of the horse? What about the human? Perhaps they are communicating in such a way that the horse doesn't understand? When did the horse ask to be treated with harsh treatment? Was it because the horse struck out in fear or pain? Maybe humans should be harnessed with metal bits and pinching saddles. And when the human strikes out they should be punished painfully with a whip and spurs. Sound ridiculous? Maybe not. To understand horses we must take a closer look at this magnificent animal before humans interfered.

Horses are herd animals. They band together for company, protection of a stallion and guidance from a lead mare. A mare will guide the herd to food and water, she is the disciplinarian of the herd in that she will temporarily drive another horse from the center of the herd as a form of punishment. She will lead the band away from danger when required with the stallion bringing up the rear of the herd, fighting when necessary. Horses are flight animals equipped with long distance vision, swift movement, keen sense of smell, hearing and most sensitive to the slightest touch. They are strong, fierce, loyal and gentle. Horses will adopt other animals or even humans as their "herd," becoming anxious when separated.

Understanding herd dynamics is most helpful in learning to communicate with horses. When your que is clear and consistent, given without pain the horse can do exactly as requested. There is no need of all the contraptions on the market to make a horse do what is expected. What's needed are people who have time to listen, play, and bond with the horse. Use your sense of sight to observe how horses respond to your voice, your eyes, and how your touch is received. There is never a need to inflict pain upon a horse. What you create by using pain as a form of control is a horse that lives in constant fear of pain when you're around him. When a horse responds without fear of pain you have a true bond based upon trust, and that is the most beautiful thing in the world.

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