Where did that come from??
Oct 05, 2024
Understanding where our horses' behaviour is coming from really is the key to helping them. If we misinterpret, we risk pushing him to a place where he feels like he needs to react: avoid, defend, shut down.
Take beautiful Odin here, he had a major trauma at an early age, abrupt weaning followed by abandonment. So much pain for a young mind to deal with.
These early experiences form the foundation for how our horses navigate change, form relationships and cope with new experiences. A horse being 'in your space' may be desperate for physical contact due to interrupted attachment early on. Liking hands, ropes, and sucking on objects, can all be the results of broken attachment.
It's never bad manners, dominance, or disrespect. It runs much deeper and is much sadder. Odin has an owner who is totally tuned in to him, she understands his need for physical contact and is helping him fulfil these needs safely and appropriately (he's big and strong and is partial to bum scratches!).
Once we understand, we can support and create an environment and relationship that's comfortable for both horse and human, supporting the needs of both.
By helping Odin build his brain pathways with problem-solving, we stop him from dropping into limbic system responses when the brain pathways, sensitised by trauma, are triggered. By giving him a strong reinforcement history with behaviours he loves, we can help him with self-regulation. By putting boundaries in place gently we avoid frustration and can help him feel loved without coming into his owner's space.
Understanding is key. Judgment from a human perspective can lead to unfair and unhelpful conclusions being drawn.
If you'd like to learn more about interpreting your horse's behaviour and what you can do to support them.
Book your free call today to learn more about the Horse Play At Home Learning Hub and check if it's right for you.
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