Horse-man-ship Mentality – Six to Win it
Cappel Cowboy Wisdom
Leading your horse is often done with little thought from the handler, but it is one of the most important parts of a good relationship between a horse and a human. Here are what the needs of a horse are, for them to cooperate in this partnership.
1) Trust
2) Respect
3) Protection
4) Leadership
5) Compassion
6) Understanding
When all these elements are present for the horse, they will be responsive, attentive, and happy to lead with non-resistance anywhere you choose. If any of these elements are lacking, the horse now is working its way into the leader’s role.
Therefore, it is the handler’s responsibility to stay alert and attentive to what the horse needs as we lead them. Dragging on the end of the lead rope behind is a lack of understanding. Pushing into and getting ahead of the handler is a lack of respect. Any type of resistance to changing direction is another dip in the trust respect balance.
When we immediately address these issues appropriately, we instantly maintain the role as leader and the relationship between human and horse is improving every time. If on the other hand, we allow unwanted behavior they will get heavier and more rebellious because of the absence of our leadership.
It comes down to your decision of who gets to be the leader, you, or the horse!
Best to you all!
Mindful Riding,
Dennis Cappel - Master Horseman
D/C
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Great advice! Something you think of as a simple thing has a lot of influence on both the horse and handler.