Want to get used to horses before you start learning how to ride them? I have the ideal proposal for you.

Start grooming horses. There are not many ways better to getting cosy around horses than grooming them. When you are able to groom a horse safely and perfectly, it works as a great boost to your self confidence.

At this point, I must insert a warning: when you are working on the horse’s legs ensure you bend over regardless of if it is a great nuisance for your back. Just don’t squat next to the horse. Squatting down restricts liberty of movement, and if the pony should move abruptly, you aren’t going to be able to react quick enough. Bending over will allow you to react fast, even with a slightly stiff back.

Remember to approach the horse from his side, by his neck, so you are very visible to him. Because of its laterally placed eyes, a horse cannot see directly ahead or directly behind. To do that, the horse will need to swivel its head. This won’t be possible for the pony when it is tied up to get groomed or saddled. When the pony can hear approaches noises but is unable to see the source of the noise, it is liable to react with its survival instincts. That suggests kicking out with its rear legs. When you approach the horse such that he sees you coming, he’s going to stay calm. Even when you’re working on him, keep speaking to him and touching him. That way, you are reassuring him of your continued presence. You won’t be triggering his survival instincts.

As a beginner, walk only those horses that are trained well. Walk with the horse on your right. You right hand should be roughly a foot away from his head, holding the lead rope. The rest of the rope should be coiled in your left hand.

Horses are Heather Tomspassion and she enjoys sharing her extensive knowledge through her 100s of articles with other horse lovers read more