The point of this game is to be able to touch your horse all over their body. And you want to do it without any ear flattening or tail swishing! The challenge at the end would be to use a different object, such as a feed bag, whip or a coat, to touch them all over as well. This helps desensitize the horse and get them more used to your presence.
You'd want to start with a not-so-sensitive area, such as their neck. Use your fist, not palm, to rub them all over their neck, then begin to move on to more sensitive parts. Make sure your touch is firm, not ticklish! Never surprise your horse - don't just grab for their body! Make sure you work your way to where you're going slowly and surely.
For uncertain areas, such as the horse's udder or sheath, you can use the whip at first and stand a safe distance away. This is for safety, in case the horse kicks out in fear.
You should spend a quarter to half an hour getting to know your horse. Don't forget his feet - you should pick up all 4 feet and either pick them or tap them with your fingers to get your horse used to your touch.
Once you can use your hands all over your horse (good job!) it's time to use another object! This step doesn't necessarily have to be the same day. It could be the next day, or several days later. Sometimes it takes time to get a horse used to you. You simply rub the object - coat, plastic bag, piece of tarp, feed bag, etc. - gently and firmly all over the horse just as you did with your fist. Keep going, gently, until your horse is used to the touch and stands quietly. Keep in mind that such objects are much more scary and you must be careful!
How friendly are you and your horse? Comment below and be sure to share this blog!
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