Working with a Coach or Trainer
Horses are naturally gentle and incredibly willing, which is why they have made such tremendous partners with humans for centuries. Understanding how to work with your horse is an integral part of responsible horse ownership. It is important to seek the support and guidance of a coach or trainer, no matter what level of experience you have or your riding goals. Good horsemanship is a life long commitment to learning and every step helps to build the relationship you have with your horse. Horses who have the benefit of a good training foundation have a better life because it ensures they are safe to handle and ride. Horses who do not have such a foundation are at risk of being labeled difficult or dangerous and often end up in the slaughter pipeline. Providing your horse with proper training is a critical part of being a responsible horse owner.
Behavioural issues can arise and it is important to understand most often these are due to either pain or fear. Horses often have several owners over the course of their lives. If they have had negative experiences or experiences that have made them afraid they will react to protect themselves. It is imperative that you work with a coach or trainer who is skilled in working with fearful horses to help them gain confidence and trust in themselves and humans. Equally important is to have your horse evaluated by your veterinarian for pain. The survival instincts in a horse mean they will hide pain to protect themselves from predators. In these instances, the only way to solve the behavioural issue is to get to the root cause of the pain and work with your veterinarian to resolve it.
If you are new to horse ownership or thinking of getting your first horse, it’s important to establish a good working relationship with a good coach or trainer. They can even help you find a suitable horse or pony. Be sure to find a coach or trainer who understands the innate kind nature of the horse. Horses are intelligent and learn quickly but they respond best to fairness, consistency and being treated with calmness. Ask prospective coaches and trainers for references and sit in on some lessons or training sessions.
National or provincial equestrian organizations have databases of certified and licensed coaches to make it easy to find a quality trainer in your area. You can also ask for recommendations at your local riding club, tack store, from your veterinarian or farrier.