Traffic Proofing your horse.

[Daisychain]

I have a nice 4yo who hacks out well alone and in company, and she is fine with traffic whatever the size aslong as it doesnt zoom past her! she would shy to the side nervously if it did, and you know what its like getting people to slow down... just wondered if anyone had any other ideas apart from the usual of going out with more experienced horse etc, she does this anyway, it isnt a big problem by any means but would like to make her a little less wary.

 

[Nailed]

get her out as often as possible and seeing the world its the easiest way.
Lou x

 

[vicksey]

Completely agree – I got a 4yo – first horse, both very inexperienced – and subsequently very scary experiences for about 18 months.

I was persistent, consistent and kind and more importantly tried to understand her behaviour. I hacked out with older, wiser and more confident horses on quiet roads, and very gradually built it up it up to busier roads. I would go for weeks doing the routine and then very slowly starting to vary it. Also having someone on the ground with you when you are out hacking is good as It gives the horse and rider more confidence.

Get a good relationship on the ground, this is sometime more important than the riding to be honest. And overall, what’s the rush….you hopefully have a long time together so don’t push it too quickly and embrace the challenge! Good luck!

 

[jhoward]

lead her out in hand loads then have some one walking beside you, i always rev the car and toot horn flash lights at young horses just starting to hack out as the things all happen, i also get people run past, and get them used to bikes! my last youngster was sooooooooooo good that 6 months of hacking and i took him not only to a mc donalds drive thru but me and a friend roade though exeter city high street.... guess what he spooked at... some muppet walking acroos the road hand out stretched going can i stroke yr horse!!!