Handling a nervous horse

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lucy666

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Hi, looking for a bit of general advice!
What have people found is the best approach to handling a nervous/spooky horse?
Whenever I'm holding a horse on the lead rope and they get scared and 'jumpy', they go sideways, jump in circles, look like they want to bolt etc. I have no idea what to do. I try to stand close to shoulder and lead as usual but they often swing round and I back away cause I'm scared they will mow me down or kick me (has happened before!). No use leading a horse at arms length so I get a bit stuck and make the situation worse! Whats the best approach to leading/holding the horse without putting yourself in danger?? Work on different yards so not able to train individual horse or anything like that.
Thank you!
 
I am not at all expert (I like to avoid these kind of horses!) but based on my experience with my last pony I can only say wear a hat and gloves all the time, and use a really long lead rope (or lunge line) so when they are trying to fly like a kite you can at least hold on and not lose them. I also used to employ the "elbow in chest" method to stop him running me over when leading. I have no idea whether this is recommended but it did help. Also, leading in a bridle gives you more control. Sorry that's very basic.
 
I would make sure to wear a hat and gloves so that you are not as worried (ie trying not to dodge!)

A long lead rope so you can give space but still be holding on.

Then you must try and stay calm not get loud or flappy etc.

Finally find a technique such as backing up or turning in a small circle, so that when they start you can back them up or turn to get the brain re-engaged and then carry on.
 
If your not sure the best thing to do is ask a calm and capable person to show you how, you need to remain calm and keep yourself close to the shoulder, its mostly about your body position so seeing someone do it is the most helpful way to learn
 
Unfortunately this is something you really need to learn in person, it isn't something thats easily described online. It also depends a bit on whether the horse is genuinely scared, feeling a bit fresh, not properly trained or is just trying it on with an inexperienced handler. Hat and gloves and a good quality long rope are good suggestions. Stay calm, try to project that you are in control and keep them listening to you, backing them up is often helpful. Try to keep close but if you do end up at arms length I find the best thing is often to retreat a bit more (out of kicking distance) and get them circling (basically lunging) around you until they calm down and start listening to you again (assuming its safe to do so and there is enough space). Once lockdown is over you could arrange a training session with someone who is good at groundwork, an IHRA if you don't know anyone through word of mouth.
 
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