There are three points to consider when greeting your horse.
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1.) Voice.
2.) Eye contact.
3.) Touch.
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You use all three to let the horse know you are there at all times. By employing these easy steps the horse will be engaged with you giving you the freedom necessary to enjoy the moments with him safely.
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The left is a horse’s more dominant side and is squarely in his field of vision. In the wild the shoulder is a non-threatening area because predators do not see it as a place that will deliver a lethal blow. So approaching your horse by his left shoulder is the first step.
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1.) Voice: While a horse is not keen on verbal cues they can tell the difference between a sharp vs. a comforting tone. Whilst approaching the left shoulder use a soft voice and see how he reacts.
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2.) Eye Contact: Ensure the horse brings his eyes to you. A visual lock is the only way to be sure he has localised his handler.
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3.) Touch: Be deliberate with your gestures. No tickling. Stroke the left shoulder – the neutral and safe shoulder.
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Now you are free to commence your grooming ritual – HAVE FUN! 🙂
– Inspired by Alan Hamilton, Zen mind, Zen horse.
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