AlDestoor
Well-Known Member
I know i've just posted about having problem with my yearlings feet but we established a bond tonight for the first time ever...
I have another horse that i've recently loaned out for the next year or so so i can concentrate on my yearling, Marble. Hes getting to the age now where hes pushing me and my boundaries (and personal space).
After purchasing a magazine and reading an article (Mutual Grooming) which explains how a horses mind works with regards to the Alpha herd member establishing the grooming session that we often find cute whilst the horses are turned out. It explains that this is not only a good grooming session, but also a way of establishing whos boss. For example... The head of the herd will establish the grooming first, however if some lower in the order starts, then the head simply walks away or makes it clear they dont want to. It then goes onto explain how to use this method in training and bonding with your horse so he respects you.
So after my arguement with Marble over his Hind feet, i thought i would give it a go. I must say that after 3 times of walking away everytime he nuzzled me, then me going back and starting rubbing his withers, he started to groom me. He then stood there, muzzle in my arms having a cuddle. This might not seem much, but its a big step for us as he is usually bargy, tense etc ALL OF THE TIME. He never chills out.
Just wanted to share so other people could have a go. I'm so happy with him, Just need to sort this damn hoof picking problem out now...
I have another horse that i've recently loaned out for the next year or so so i can concentrate on my yearling, Marble. Hes getting to the age now where hes pushing me and my boundaries (and personal space).
After purchasing a magazine and reading an article (Mutual Grooming) which explains how a horses mind works with regards to the Alpha herd member establishing the grooming session that we often find cute whilst the horses are turned out. It explains that this is not only a good grooming session, but also a way of establishing whos boss. For example... The head of the herd will establish the grooming first, however if some lower in the order starts, then the head simply walks away or makes it clear they dont want to. It then goes onto explain how to use this method in training and bonding with your horse so he respects you.
So after my arguement with Marble over his Hind feet, i thought i would give it a go. I must say that after 3 times of walking away everytime he nuzzled me, then me going back and starting rubbing his withers, he started to groom me. He then stood there, muzzle in my arms having a cuddle. This might not seem much, but its a big step for us as he is usually bargy, tense etc ALL OF THE TIME. He never chills out.
Just wanted to share so other people could have a go. I'm so happy with him, Just need to sort this damn hoof picking problem out now...