Wednesday, April 27, 2011

How To Move Your Horse's Feet

By Annabelle Cabella


Moving your horse's feet is one of the basics of equine training. Here are some guidelines.

Moving your horse to motion in different directions is also a prospect of gaining the equine's reverence. Equines need to know their position in the herd and they are either the follower or the leader. Definitely, you would desire to be the more dominant. Accomplish this thru groundwork and by moving your horse.

By nature, the horse as a herd animal will instinctively follow a dominant presence---and that is what we refer to as the Alpha horse. When a horse is with you, the animal operates in the same principle and it only responds accordingly in your ability to establish yourself as the leader. It all starts on the ground and how you demonstrate your leadership. Let it be clear, if the horse does not respect you on the ground, it will not respect you on the saddle.

"Who moves who?" - an important process of negotiating your claim to the leadership role

Interestingly enough, the equine is highly aware if you are the one following its demands or vice versa. If it observes that you are moving as a reaction to its own movements, it will entitle the horse for the more dominant role. This is the rationale why you need to get connected to your horse's feet as the alpha while on groundwork. For any reason why you are training your horse-whether it is for jumping, competition, or for pleasure riding-a good relationship must be set during groundwork.

Some tips in making your horse move its feet

* Firstly, be certain that the area or round pen is wide enough to allow the equine to move freely. The surface should be flat and the location must be clear from unnecessary hindrances. Safety for both equine and horseman must be prioritized.

* Both trainer and the horse should have their minds in a good place. A positive vibe can go a long way when training.

* Learning the horse's language thru body signals and positioning are vital. Learn where you want to position your self relative to the equine. Recognize where to put pressure to get the equine moving to your desire direction. Using aids like a whip or a stick may be a good idea. You do not utilize tools to hit the animal; the whip is just an extension of your energy.

* It is all about positive reinforcement. Learn the best rewards to give to the horse.

* You can use your voice to help give authority to your commands.

* Master how to "hook-up". This is an excellent way to stop the horse from motion and it also establishes respect.

* Always be sensitive with the equine's feelings. Don't push too hard when the equine is already showing signs of boredom, anxiety, and exhaustion.Always be sensitive with the horse's feelings. Don't push too hard when the horse is already showing signs of boredom, anxiety, and exhaustion.

* Master the "hooking up" method. You can effectively make the equine stop to stand still with this technique.

Remember that groundwork is often taken by the horse as a time of getting into play with you. However, on the other hand, this is a great time to work on yourself as a horse trainer.




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