When you take on ownership of a horse, especially if he is from and abused or neglected background, you will want to begin bonding with him as soon as possible.

Start off slowly and just visit with your horse and make sure he's comfortable with your presence, talk to him and bring the occasional small treat but don't let him see where you hide them in your coat pockets or anywhere else or he'll learn quickly to start nudging you for more treats. If you keep them an occasional thing, he'll learn that you are in charge of treats and he won't be aggressive for getting them.

After he is comfortable and accepting of your visits, you can start leading him around the pen. Watch for signs he is uncomfortable with his bit if he hasn't been harnessed in a while. Some horses will need to have their teeth floated or use a different type of bit if he is uncomfortable in or pain. Keep it pleasurable and talk to your horse as you walk him. Once again when he seems accepting of this, you can move on to the next step.

Riding is the final step in basic bonding with your horse. When he is completely nonchalant about your presence and being lead by a harness, you can then saddle and ride him. If it has been a long time since he has had a rider, you might want to get him accustomed to the saddle again by allowing him to wear it for a few times before you actually ride him. Once you get his trust and he's calm about it then you can start taking him for rides and really let your relationship with your horse grow.

Labels: horse-care