Listen here:
Adopting a horse can be a rewarding experience, but it comes with its own set of challenges. That’s especially true if your new horse comes from a rescue. Many rescue horses have experienced trauma or neglect in the past, which can lead to behavioral and training issues.
To help your adopted horse thrive mentally requires patience, understanding, and sensible training techniques. Here are five ways to support his mental well-being as he gets used to his new home:
1. Build trust through patient and consistent handling
Building trust is crucial, and the easiest way to accomplish this goal is through repeated, consistent and positive interactions with your horse. Also, be careful not to become your horse’s sole handler. Encourage other reliable people to interact with your horse, ensuring he can adapt to different handlers in case of emergencies or medical situations.
2. Take training slow
Retraining an adopted horse can be a slow process. Depending on his previous experiences, your new horse may need more repetitions to overcome fears and learn new behaviors. Patience is crucial during this process. In fact, pushing too hard or overcorrecting a horse can hinder his ability to learn.
3. Use Positive Reinforcement Techniques
The most effective and humane way to train horses is through positive reinforcement techniques. This approach involves rewarding the horse with treats and praise when he exhibits desired behavior, reinforcing the positive association.
4. Manage Mealtime Anxiety
Due to past experiences of neglect or food insecurity, many rescue horses suffer from mealtime anxiety. This can lead to aggression—a horse may try to defend his feeding area—or other undesirable mealtime behaviors such as bolting food. Head off potential problems by creating a secure and calm environment for mealtimes, such as a quiet stall where the horse can eat undisturbed. Gradually introduce the horse to this routine and be prepared to adjust the process as needed.
5. Foster Socialization
Introducing your adopted horse to a new herd can be nerve-wracking. To ease your horse’s introduction to the herd, try keeping him in a nearby paddock or stall for a few days so the horses can become familiar with each other gradually, with a protective barrier between them. Also, if possible, introduce your new horse to one herd member at a time—starting with the friendliest and calmest horses.
