Worth Their While

When Ava and me used to board at The Ranch things slowly started to get better in our training. For the most part at least, there were always ups and downs. Although as the months went by Ava started to become resentful and extremely difficult to catch. Of course this was frustrating and after she would finally be caught she would sometimes be very agitated in the workout and throw a tantrum. Later I found out she was just sore from being ridden so much, bad owner! But, even after I gave her a wonderfully long break she was still difficult to catch. I didn't know what to do, what was there to do besides run her around the pasture until she was too tired to run anymore? Well! After moving to Sunset Ranch I found the answer.

Horses (or mine at the very least) like being rewarded, one way or another, some more than others as well. The sweet satisfaction of a reward after a hard days work is wonderful in almost anyone's eyes, so why would a horse be any different?

I slowly caught on that a reward after a hard days work was all Ava was after. She wanted some kind of something that was not work related to show that she did a good days job. So, after a long days ride and sometimes even during the workout Ava would get rewarded with grain, a treat, or even some extra hay (especially in the winter). Horses are grazers, they 99% of the time want to be eating, so channeling that into the workouts really worked wonders. Now she is literally the easiest horse to catch on the planet. Not only that but our relationship seems to be stronger because I play a small part in when she can eat or not, so she will anticipate food when she sees me, somewhat like a dog to his owner. Some people may balk at this because then your horse may eventually get pushy. Although I have found a very interesting way to keep the horse from grabbing at your hand when you offer food. If you have a treat in your hand keep your hand closed until your horse has stopped trying to eat the treat out of your hand. Another useful tip to help a horse not be pushy with treats is to actually substitute a treat with some of their grain. I am happy with our method of rewarding and know that people have their own opinions and their own way of keeping a good relationship with their horse.  You never know, this could be a completely terrible idea for you and your horse but this has worked wonders for me and my girls and I thought I would share it with you all.

Owning a horse is a partnership. It is our responsibility to make and keep the horse happy. Our horse doesn't strive to make us happy, they are just as content to sit in a pasture all day eating without a care in the world. It is our job whenever we are with them to make it worth their while.