How to calm a scared horse

[saalsk]

I'm not using the treats to calm, simply to reinforce better behaviour - I always have a pocket of herbal nugget thingies, and a lickit of some sort. If they are stressed and upset, they are not looking to eat - they are looking to escape. If they are upset, but not actually scared, they can be calmed and rewarded for being calmer. Look to what is upsetting them - if it is a small bag that moved in the hedge, and they freaked, but then started to settle, then let them take a few minutes, reward the calming, and move on. If BuzzLightyear landed on their withers, and they have actually melted through stress, then a lickit isn't going to help ! Pick your battles !

 

[Keira 8888]

I'm not using the treats to calm, simply to reinforce better behaviour - I always have a pocket of herbal nugget thingies, and a lickit of some sort. If they are stressed and upset, they are not looking to eat - they are looking to escape. If they are upset, but not actually scared, they can be calmed and rewarded for being calmer. Look to what is upsetting them - if it is a small bag that moved in the hedge, and they freaked, but then started to settle, then let them take a few minutes, reward the calming, and move on. If BuzzLightyear landed on their withers, and they have actually melted through stress, then a lickit isn't going to help ! Pick your battles !

So how would you handle it if they were extremely scared and tugging strongly on the lead rope to whip around and go home?

 

[mini_b]

Stupid question - but do you ever get scared in this kind of situation? Or do you feel in total control at all times?

No never because the reality is, I’m not. I’m human and shit happens. Stuff takes me and him by surprise.
You’ve just got to get it together and fake it til you make it!

I’ve just seen your comments about the tugging to go home, this is why you have to get back end moving and use a long rope because it soon disappears. Once you get pulling you lose. They will tow. We’ve ALL been there and lost them ??‍
It’s learning how to catch them before they go (and hopefully diffuse it in meantime)

 

[mini_b]

I'm not using the treats to calm, simply to reinforce better behaviour - I always have a pocket of herbal nugget thingies, and a lickit of some sort. If they are stressed and upset, they are not looking to eat - they are looking to escape. If they are upset, but not actually scared, they can be calmed and rewarded for being calmer. Look to what is upsetting them - if it is a small bag that moved in the hedge, and they freaked, but then started to settle, then let them take a few minutes, reward the calming, and move on. If BuzzLightyear landed on their withers, and they have actually melted through stress, then a lickit isn't going to help ! Pick your battles !

exactly. Being upset is different from scared and you can’t “stop” a reaction. Diffusing an upset one is very different from a scared one!

 

[Keira 8888]

No never because the reality is, I’m not. I’m human and shit happens. Stuff takes me and him by surprise.
You’ve just got to get it together and fake it til you make it!

I’ve just seen your comments about the tugging to go home, this is why you have to get back end moving and use a long rope because it soon disappears. Once you get pulling you lose. They will tow. We’ve ALL been there and lost them ??‍
It’s learning how to catch them before they go (and hopefully diffuse it in meantime)

Ok! I can do this! Get the back end moving ? I will work on this tomorrow. Thank you xxx

 

[Keira 8888]

exactly. Being upset is different from scared and you can’t “stop” a reaction. Diffusing an upset one is very different from a scared one!

This is so true and I’m only beginning to realise it. Jesus, horse ownership is pretty hard - it’s bringing out qualities in me that I never thought I had! Good qualities though! I hope my daughter sticks with it - because if she can handle this - no man will ever walk over her!!

 

[Dave's Mam]

This is so true and I’m only beginning to realise it. Jesus, horse ownership is pretty hard - it’s bringing out qualities in me that I never thought I had! Good qualities though! I hope my daughter sticks with it - because if she can handle this - no man will ever walk over her!!

You're doing good.

 

[saalsk]

If they bolt - you can't stop them - the way forward is to stop them getting to that point. Having a long lead rope, gloves, and making them move themselves to relieve their own stress is the way to go. If it is a specific thing ( tractor, noise, person etc ) then move away. If it is a general **upsetty feeling** then let them move, but try to reward a calming/slowing of the behaviour. Use your voice - a slow steady whoaaaaaa hooooo, if they then calm a little, and get rewarded, will build the lesson that calm is good. Reinforce it at home - when they are standing calmly, say your choice phrase ""easy horse, good boy/girl"" or whatever, and treat. Pick a phrase you don't mind saying in public. Just saying.

 

[mini_b]

if my horse is “extremely scared” as you said, he is unreasonable. I cannot lead him, I have to either leave him in or leave him out until it looks as if it’s SAFE. He is white eyed, tucked up and dripping with sweat and he shakes. I then use a chifney or a chain and with company.

I cannot do a thing with him and it’s very obvious what the cause is.

If he’s being snorty and a bit silly which he probably is with the frost and noticing things in the hedge and trying to drag you around... You will get past that once you know him better! It’s worrying because he’s a big boy and once you’ve had one of each season with him you’ll see how he changes and what sets him off.

They are honestly different all year round much as we are!

 

[Keira 8888]

If they bolt - you can't stop them - the way forward is to stop them getting to that point. Having a long lead rope, gloves, and making them move themselves to relieve their own stress is the way to go. If it is a specific thing ( tractor, noise, person etc ) then move away. If it is a general **upsetty feeling** then let them move, but try to reward a calming/slowing of the behaviour. Use your voice - a slow steady whoaaaaaa hooooo, if they then calm a little, and get rewarded, will build the lesson that calm is good. Reinforce it at home - when they are standing calmly, say your choice phrase ""easy horse, good boy/girl"" or whatever, and treat. Pick a phrase you don't mind saying in public. Just saying.

Ok great, this is very useful thank you. I will make up my calming phrase then. Xx

 

[PinkvSantaboots]

Sorry guys - another question, so if you are working with a schooling whip, how much pressure should you apply for a reprimanding tap? A gentle pat or a slightly stronger wallop? X

It really depends on the horse I have one that just has to see it I daren't ever touch him yet the other one would tolerate a flick of it then try and chew it, you always go in with a soft approach then get a feel for the horse, experience around horses often will give you a good idea of how a horse will react to pressure from a whip or any sort pressure.

 

[Keira 8888]

if my horse is “extremely scared” as you said, he is unreasonable. I cannot lead him, I have to either leave him in or leave him out until it looks as if it’s SAFE. He is white eyed, tucked up and dripping with sweat and he shakes. I then use a chifney or a chain and with company.

I cannot do a thing with him and it’s very obvious what the cause is.

If he’s being snorty and a bit silly which he probably is with the frost and noticing things in the hedge and trying to drag you around... You will get past that once you know him better! It’s worrying because he’s a big boy and once you’ve had one of each season with him you’ll see how he changes and what sets him off.

They are honestly different all year round much as we are!

To be honest I think I’m the problem not him! What you describe above e.g white eyed and dripping with sweat, I have thank fully not had to encounter!

I think it’s just my inexperience with a big animal that is making me nervous. And I’m an idiot because so far I havent had to deal with it! Arghh! I don’t know why I traumatise myself with issues that haven’t even happened.

Having totally over horsed myself I know I have come through a lot - in terms of investigating his medical problems and getting him on the right feed - but I’m embarrassed to admit I’m still scared of walking out alone. I wish I could get past this x

 

[PinkvSantaboots]

What is your reason for leading the horse in these situations? Are you riding or lunging inbetween? I only ask as just walking out in hand is not much exercise for a lot of horses it is ok for a little in between other work but I wouldn't just rely on it for exercise alone so to speak.

 

[Keira 8888]

I should add that he had been an absolute angel on the ground and also when ridden - I just worry that if a moment came that truly scared him, I would f know what to do. So I guess I’m asking - or I’d love to know - how many of you have had experiences where your horse broke from your grasp. Despite your best efforts. And what happened?

 

[Dave's Mam]

To be honest I think I’m the problem not him! What you describe above e.g white eyed and dripping with sweat, I have thank fully not had to encounter!

I think it’s just my inexperience with a big animal that is making me nervous. And I’m an idiot because so far I havent had to deal with it! Arghh! I don’t know why I traumatise myself with issues that haven’t even happened.

Having totally over horsed myself I know I have come through a lot - in terms of investigating his medical problems and getting him on the right feed - but I’m embarrassed to admit I’m still scared of walking out alone. I wish I could get past this x

Hey, don't be embarressed, we're all trying to work it out.

 

[Keira 8888]

What is your reason for leading the horse in these situations? Are you riding or lunging inbetween? I only ask as just walking out in hand is not much exercise for a lot of horses it is ok for a little in between other work but I wouldn't just rely on it for exercise alone so to speak.

Well firstly I have to lead him from the stable to his field - and infrequently he may hear a chain saw or loud machinery. I also like to walk him down our lane where we can meet anything from large groups of dogs off the lead to new forest ponies. Now to be fair to Prince - he is a fantastic horse and has never reacted to these things. But I’ve always had an experienced friend with me. I’ve been the one leading him but I like my friend there as a comfort blanket, I guess that is why I’m asking this question. To begin with... can I do this on my own??’ I just dont know

 

[PinkvSantaboots]

I should add that he had been an absolute angel on the ground and also when ridden - I just worry that if a moment came that truly scared him, I would f know what to do. So I guess I’m asking - or I’d love to know - how many of you have had experiences where your horse broke from your grasp. Despite your best efforts. And what happened?

Don't worry too much I find talking to them helps even singing done that whilst riding enough times takes your mind off what they are doing and most horses listen to the voice so much just teach simple voice aids, I use trot on, then and canter and use whoa for a slow down transition and this can all be used when riding as well, I use my voice a lot when riding because I rely on it on the ground I know it works!

 

[saalsk]

We are all inexperienced - and we have all been there - you are trying to help him, and you, so you are doing great. Don't beat yourself up or put yourself down. If things get a bit hairy, having along lead rope means you have distance from him barging or squashing you unintentionally. If things get hairy, move him to the end of the rope and wait - do breathing exercises ( rectangle - 3 seconds in, hold 3 seconds, 3 seconds out, hold 3 seconds repeat ) Don't ask anything of him, and let everything calm down. No embarrassment. If you want to walk your horse half way to the road and back, do it. If you want to put bridle and saddle on and walk him to the start of road and then back, and nothing else - do it. You are putting positive experiences in the tub - and they help confidence. The main thing is to enjoy your horse, and the time you spend with him - whether that is patting him and giving him carrots on the way to turnout, or setting off for a 3 hour solo hack - work your way up, and enjoy it on the way.

 

[Keira 8888]

Don't worry too much I find talking to them helps even singing done that whilst riding enough times takes your mind off what they are doing and most horses listen to the voice so much just teach simple voice aids, I use trot on, then and canter and use whoa for a slow down transition and this can all be used when riding as well, I use my voice a lot when riding because I rely on it on the ground I know it works!

Thank you! So what voice cue would you use if you were trying to calm down your horse? X

 

[mini_b]

To be honest I think I’m the problem not him! What you describe above e.g white eyed and dripping with sweat, I have thank fully not had to encounter!

I think it’s just my inexperience with a big animal that is making me nervous. And I’m an idiot because so far I havent had to deal with it! Arghh! I don’t know why I traumatise myself with issues that haven’t even happened.

Having totally over horsed myself I know I have come through a lot - in terms of investigating his medical problems and getting him on the right feed - but I’m embarrassed to admit I’m still scared of walking out alone. I wish I could get past this x

As pinkvsantaboots - I do not walk mine in hand btw...
I lunge, I ride, go up and down the drive (long way!!!) to our turnout etc etc but no strolling around with him in hand. To me personally it’s inviting a problem, he used to get away from his prev owners and ending up on the moor (worst nightmare!!)

I’d rather be riding to encounter any scary encounters - he’s way more confident with me on his back and I have far more control of the situation, but that’s just us - you and prince may be different!

as long as he behaves for all our “normal” activities I’m ok with that. If we want to walk we saddle up. He’s happy, I’m happy even if it’s for a 20 min leg stretch!

mines got away from me...over the top of me out of our box. Across the yard... heard clattering and managed
To divert him into small pony paddocks. I couldn’t catch him at all til next day and it took a week for him to catch properly. (He normally comes over/waits)

Do not catastrophise!
What worries you this month won’t bother you next

 

[mini_b]

Thank you! So what voice cue would you use if you were trying to calm down your horse? X

long low slow!!!

ooooolaaaaa steeeeaaaadyyyyyy in monotone low calllmmm

few octaves down from your own voice! Absolute opposite to when you lavish them with good boyyy!!

almost let it come from your stomach. It slows your breathing as well

 

[Dave's Mam]

Thank you! So what voice cue would you use if you were trying to calm down your horse? X

I usually use no tone at all "Oh you saw it yesterday, walk on".

 

[Keira 8888]

We are all inexperienced - and we have all been there - you are trying to help him, and you, so you are doing great. Don't beat yourself up or put yourself down. If things get a bit hairy, having along lead rope means you have distance from him barging or squashing you unintentionally. If things get hairy, move him to the end of the rope and wait - do breathing exercises ( rectangle - 3 seconds in, hold 3 seconds, 3 seconds out, hold 3 seconds repeat ) Don't ask anything of him, and let everything calm down. No embarrassment. If you want to walk your horse half way to the road and back, do it. If you want to put bridle and saddle on and walk him to the start of road and then back, and nothing else - do it. You are putting positive experiences in the tub - and they help confidence. The main thing is to enjoy your horse, and the time you spend with him - whether that is patting him and giving him carrots on the way to turnout, or setting off for a 3 hour solo hack - work your way up, and enjoy it on the way.

Aha! Right! Now this is exactly what I wanted to hear, I can do this! Knowing you have said this is very helpful, thank you. I will practice my breathing exercises. They have definitely helped me at the gate when I’m turning in and out. But honestly! This horse business is pretty hardcore isn’t it! I mean, we have to be pretty brave to handle these animals! A huge part of me thrives on it but the smaller voice in my head is always taunting me about “what could go wrong” I hate that voice! I never had it when I was 13!!!

 

[Dave's Mam]

Breathe into your belly, not your chest. It's amazing for dropping your stress level & thus your pony's.

 

[saalsk]

Another good point from MiniBarnes - I also don't womble walk - if I am moving them somewhere, it is with purpose - either to come in or go out, or if they are just being hand exercised, they are long reined and expected to walk properly, move to side to side, slow, speed up, stop, wait, move on and then some grazing is a reward. Being on a lead rein, or any rein, isn't a play time, even though it can have **down time** relax time for some grazing that it is allowed but time limited. Don't set yourself up for failure with allowing the horse to dictate that some leadrope stuff is just a bit fluffy.
Could you get your friend to either hang back, so they aren't with you, or go ahead for the same reason, so they are there if things go wrong, and they are there for a security blanket, but aren't influencing anything ?

 

[Keira 8888]

As pinkvsantaboots - I do not walk mine in hand btw...
I lunge, I ride, go up and down the drive (long way!!!) to our turnout etc etc but no strolling around with him in hand. To me personally it’s inviting a problem, he used to get away from his prev owners and ending up on the moor (worst nightmare!!)

I’d rather be riding to encounter any scary encounters - he’s way more confident with me on his back and I have far more control of the situation, but that’s just us - you and prince may be different!

as long as he behaves for all our “normal” activities I’m ok with that. If we want to walk we saddle up. He’s happy, I’m happy even if it’s for a 20 min leg stretch!

mines got away from me...over the top of me out of our box. Across the yard... heard clattering and managed
To divert him into small pony paddocks. I couldn’t catch him at all til next day and it took a week for him to catch properly. (He normally comes over/waits)

Do not catastrophise!
What worries you this month won’t bother you next

I’m curious! And probably being really thick here - but how do you lead him from stable to yard? Ah! Or are you saying you don’t take him “on walks” in hand? So interesting he is more controllable when you are riding - although I guess that makes sense

 

[Keira 8888]

Another good point from MiniBarnes - I also don't womble walk - if I am moving them somewhere, it is with purpose - either to come in or go out, or if they are just being hand exercised, they are long reined and expected to walk properly, move to side to side, slow, speed up, stop, wait, move on and then some grazing is a reward. Being on a lead rein, or any rein, isn't a play time, even though it can have **down time** relax time for some grazing that it is allowed but time limited. Don't set yourself up for failure with allowing the horse to dictate that some leadrope stuff is just a bit fluffy.
Could you get your friend to either hang back, so they aren't with you, or go ahead for the same reason, so they are there if things go wrong, and they are there for a security blanket, but aren't influencing anything ?

Yes!! You’ve hit the nail on the head! I feel my walking time with him is quite “fluffy”

But at the moment, as I’m building confidence, I really like our little walks. He has such a huge dinosaur head - he likes to swing it up and didn’t against me and I find it hard to stop this sometimes. Arghh I’m sorry for being such a moaning Myrtle, I’m sure it will all sort itself in the end x

 

[mini_b]

I’m curious! And probably being really thick here - but how do you lead him from stable to yard? Ah! Or are you saying you don’t take him “on walks” in hand? So interesting he is more controllable when you are riding - although I guess that makes sense

Yes I don’t walk my horse...
This seems to be a fairly new thing.
if he was on restricted/box rest id graze in hand in a field/enclosed space. But I do not amble about taking in the countryside with him in hand. I don’t fancy skiing! He absolutely must behave on the ground going to and from field (far!) and being lead around but for us is far safer to go exploring on horseback. I never dismount to encounter something scary for example but this honestly varies - you know your horse!

It’s not that he’s more “controllable” as such he’s just a headless chicken and I’d rather be with him when he ends up 10 miles away rather than running around wondering where he is.

 

[windand rain]

You could try deep breathing and lowering your heartrate even if you are worried mind over matter will help behaviour accelerates the higher your heart rate so if you can keep calm it will make him think all is well. His trust is what gives you control he is following your lead. Yes something might make both of you jump but if your heart rate drops to normal really quickly he will calm. I have always gone on the principle if you expect trouble you will get it but if you dont then it is a rare and surprising occurance

Two year old at the adventure playground the only one of a big group to do every obstacle first time of asking

 

[PinkvSantaboots]

Aha! Right! Now this is exactly what I wanted to hear, I can do this! Knowing you have said this is very helpful, thank you. I will practice my breathing exercises. They have definitely helped me at the gate when I’m turning in and out. But honestly! This horse business is pretty hardcore isn’t it! I mean, we have to be pretty brave to handle these animals! A huge part of me thrives on it but the smaller voice in my head is always taunting me about “what could go wrong” I hate that voice! I never had it when I was 13!!!

That's why singing helps if your nervous because you have to breathe! I lost my confidence after an accident I had and I used to tense up so badly and stop breathing so this helped me loads, you need to relax as well because horses pick up on all of the negative things we put out unfortunately, I know sometimes if I am a bit hormonal and miserable my horses pick up on it and I often don't ride if I am in a certain frame of mind it's not worth it, but we are all flesh and blood and everyday is never the same.