When I bought Elektra almost 2 years ago she was almost untouched by human hands. In her every day handling with us, it soon became apparent that she was incredibly sensitive around her ears.
I think she was possibly twitched on her ears at a young age, especially her right ear. Putting a normal halter on her was a test of nerves and patience. Same with the bridle.
Last week, after riding, I was careless and did not ask her to put her head down before I removed the bitless bridle.
Touching her ears while her head was still up above mine, before I realised what was happening she swung her head round and knocked me to the ground pulling back as she did so.
When I take the time to get her to lower her head as Buck Brannaman describes here, then it is a much less stressful time for us both.
In the photos below taken in March last year, my colleague Anne Beyerly is working Elektra from above Elektra’s eye line. This is a desensitising exercise to prepare the horse for when the rider is on its back.
Here you can see that Anne has put a slight pressure on the poll area, Elektra has lowered her head, and Anne has released the pressure.
It is helpful if the horse learns to lower his head from the slightest pressure on the poll.
http://www.eclectic-horseman.com/content/view/336/92/
Always wear appropriate safety items of clothing, gloves, shoes and head protection when handling or riding your horse. There is always some risk involved in horse training for both you and the horse. Be sensible and stay within your level of training. This information illustrates the training methods and techniques I and my colleagues use. It is your responsibility to use it wisely. It is not intended to replace personal instruction from a professional instructor. Keep yourself and your horse out of trouble. If you wish to learn more about these methods contact us at: elizabeth@horsetrainingsolutions.com www.horsetrainingsolutions.com
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This is interesting. I have just been working with a pony of 7 who has a similar problem. It is far more difficult to remove the bridle than put it on. The history is mostly unknown but she had been mostly unhandled for the last two years. I have been doing the lowering exercises and also find it useful to loosen the cheek pieces a couple of holes each side before taking the bridle off.
This is interesting. I have just been working with a pony of 7 who has a similar problem. It is far more difficult to remove the bridle than put it on. The history is mostly unknown but she had been mostly unhandled for the last two years. I have been doing the lowering exercises and also find it useful to loosen the cheek pieces a couple of holes each side before taking the bridle off.
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