Bonding?.......

[Baggybreeches]

Is it really important to 'bond' with a horse?

When I had ponies, we used to talk about 'clicking' with them but that mostly refered to riding, and most people on here seem to very desperate to bond with their horses.
My ponies were all quite cute, but not affectionate, my first horse Touchy (who I have now had for 8years) is not particularly affectionate, although she does enjoy attention. Sovereign is the cuddliest most affectionate horse in the world which is nice because I enjy our little 'moments' and Emerald who prefers to be done by me only and then left alone (but he does have issues!).
So does it really matter whether you 'bond' or not?

 

[Mid]

i think when people talk about a bond, they mean that their horse trusts and recognises them. my horsie trusts me, i can convince him to do things he won't do for other people (go past scary puddles ect) just by talking to him, even if i'm not the one riding him. he's a rescue, and he's not the best riding horse, but this 'bond' we have is special, i'm starting to get one with the pony, too, which is nice because he's so shy and usually not affectionate at all.

 

[Judziah]

What's the point in having or being with a horse without bonding??

Surely that's like being in a relationship with a partner you don't know, like or have any interest in...?

Personally, the bond with my horses is vital. Should they have a serious accident, be injured, sick or frightened, I know they'll trust me to help them, making it so much easier. I find that only by bonding with a horse can you reveal their real personality.