HOW TO LEAD A DIFFICULT HORSE
This is one of the most basic things you do with your horse and it sets the tone for your connection.
If your horse has no respect for you and tanks off at any given chance, barges into you, strikes out or rears at you, then you have to act quickly so you and your horse remain safe.
I use a strict method to make sure the horse respects my space.
Ideally I would like to have a partnership with my horse but this must begin with him understanding I am in charge.
“We will go where I say but I will protect you, listen to you and not ask too much of you”.
This should be what you are telling your horse, it is a massive task for you and one that you should have in mind, whatever you are doing.
POINTS
You should wear boots with good grip, gloves and a hat. I do not use gloves or a hat, unless I believe the horse will rear or be aggressive. This is only because I have worked with horses for over 40 years and have good listening skills and can read a horse well.
If there is any doubt I will definitely wear my hat and gloves, and I would recommend you do.
You should practise this in an enclosed space.
You will need a control headcollar. There are many around.
I use the “be kind control halter” as it puts pressure all over the head, and not just in one area. Also if you release a little, it responds immediately. You will have to investigate and make the best choice you can.
You will need a long leadrope (Jeff checking it out), and a long whip (just to get your horse’s attention never to use on the horse)
HOW TO LEAD
Stand about 3m in front of your horse.
If he moves towards you, shake your leadrope at him. How vigorously will depend on how reactive he is.
If he still walks towards you, wave your arms aggressively, taking an aggressive stance until he moves away.
In extreme cases you may need to get a whip and attach a plastic bag to it and hit the floor between you to get his attention.
Make him back up a few steps using the same aids.
In the field the head horse can move the other horses by just a look.
You need to command the same respect, but remember this comes with great responsibility.
Walk forward and he should follow keeping his distance.
As soon as he steps into the space between you, turn and force him back again.
If he gets distracted by anything, get his attention back on you by making him reverse a few steps.
When you are with him you are the most important thing, but this goes both ways.
Do not stop to have a little chat with your friends, expecting your horse to understand he can look around and do what he wants now, but not in a few minutes when you have finished your gossip.
Gradually reduce the amount of activity you need to use to push him back, until just a look will be enough.
From this point forward you must make sure you keep that gap between you until he fully respects you, then you can reduce the space. If he gets bargy again make sure you go back to this exercise.
Final Thoughts
This is the ground from which your connection will grow.
It is hard to be forceful, but you have half a tonne of flight animal to care for, and he must respect you.
One strike, kick or push can break your bones and leave you unable to care for him, so he must learn to take notice of you.