Horse Attraction Interaction 2MH: Category B
- Jan 19, 2017
- 2 min read
So why the name Horse Interaction Attraction? Because they rhyme, and rhyming words sound good as everyone knows! Personally, I love words that rhyme. But guys, let it go because the point of this post literally isn't rhyming words. Okay, I'm kidding. But...how did I get side-tracked?!
Meeting a horse can be scary for several reasons:
1) They're big.
2) Lookit those teeth though!
3) Well...they can do anything at anytime.
(My cat is literally running up and down the hall as I type right now. Must ignore it...Must finish writing this post!!!)
So anyway. When you first think of horses, you may think:
a) "Oh wow, horses are so amazing I can't wait to meet this horse!" (Personally, Category A is mine. Just depends on the horse though.)
b) "Ahhh, Mom? Do I have to go? I have a REALLY bad stomach ache." (Translation: "Mom, it's scary. I don't want to go.)
c) "Do we have to go meet the horses? I want to watch that TV program. It's my favourite!" (Translation: "Dad, I hate horses. Do we have to go?)
Are you Category A, B, or C?
If you're Category B, this post will help you.
If you're in a riding school or you're getting a pony ride or someone you know has a very gentle-natured horse, you are in luck! Let me show you CIGP (Confident approach, Initial Greeting, Gentle talking, Petting). First, let's start with C.
Confident Approach
Horses can sense fear. If you're Category B, you are scared. But please, for your own sake, do not give any sign that you're scared! Horses respond to what they sense. If you're scared, they may also get scared. And when horses are scared...can we please not go there?
Initial Greeting
Once you've approached the horse, let the horse sniff you. Curl your fingers to your palm and hold out the back of your hand.
Gentle Talking
Once you've confidently approached a horse, you want to talk to it. Like I did with Rocket:
"Hey, Rocket, boy. We're going to have fun today. You know, this is my first ride. I'm really excited. You're nice, aren't you? Don't worry: We're gonna be good friends."
When I started riding Chicklette: "Hey, Chick. So. I hear we're riding together. I really can't wait. You're a nice little girl, aren't you?"
Don't let fear take over your voice. Things can get better or worse.
Petting
Horses, like dogs and cats, enjoy a good pet. Give the horse a pat on your neck and tell yourself, "I've done it!"
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