Horses can easily get startled and it is always good to know how to calm your horse down and get things under control before the issue escalates. Here is a list of common scenarios and how to deal with them:

Scenario 1: The Car

A car has just driven past your riding centre, honking its horn (honking your horn for no reason or when your car is not moving is a punishable crime and you can get fined) and startling your horse. Your horse starts galloping round madly and you have completely lost control of him. What should you do?

To get your horse to halt, try to steer him into the fence so that he is forced to stop. Then, whisper reassuring words into his ear while patting him. Once you dismount, reward your horse by giving him a treat or doing whatever else you usually do to congratulate him.

Scenario 2: The Stray Dog

A stray dog has wandered into your riding arena and barked at your horse. Your horse is terrified; what should you do?

Ask someone to help get the dog away so that he stops wreaking havoc. Get your horse to do an exercise which he is used to, so that a sense of normality is brought back.

Scenario 3: The Bucket of Feed

A stable-hand walks by your horse with a bucket full of horse feed. Your horse gets excited and jittery as the food shakes in the bucket- he thinks it is his food. He is not focussed at all and, when he realises the food is being given to another horse, gallops around in frustration. What should you do?

As with the car, drive your horse into the fence to halt him and, unlike with the other scenarios, give him a telling-off. He is being stubborn and not focussing, nothing that will earn him a pat or a treat!

If you have any questions or suggestions, please post a comment 😉