Working with Rescue Horses
Safety and Training Techniques for Abused or Neglected Horses
Every year, thousands of horses are rescued from neglectful or abusive situations. Working with rescue horses can be both challenging and rewarding.
Rescue horses have had little or no positive human contact, and their fight-or-flight instincts are set permanently to “flight”. Loud noises, sudden movements, harsh voices and unfamiliar objects can send them darting in the other direction.
Horse safety is always important, but it is far more critical when working with abused or neglected horses. Rescue animals have had a tough life, and experience has forced them to distrust humans. Keep this in mind when you decide you want to work with such a creature.
From the Ground Up
You should never start by hopping on the back of a rescue horse, especially if you aren’t familiar with his background. It is entirely possible that he has never been ridden before, and starting with a terrifying ride will only set your progress back. Instead, you should work with the rescue horse on the ground until he seems stable enough to handle a human being on his back.
First, spend time with the horse as often as possible, grooming him in his stall or grazing him in a pasture. Talk to him in soothing tones, making sure every touch is a gentle one, and avoid big crowds or other horses until he has gotten used to his surroundings.
From there, you can begin work on the lunge line, starting without tack, then adding a saddle and bridle as he becomes more comfortable. Take things slower than you would with a young or inexperienced horse, and never push a rescue horse if he has been malnourished or severely abused. Injuries should be healed before you begin any kind of physical regimen.
Adjusting to the Unfamiliar
As you work with rescue horses, you’ll start to observe patterns that are common in all neglected or abused animals. As mentioned above, they will be sensitive to loud noises and sudden movements, which is an area that you will need to address. Limited exposure to stimuli on a regular basis will begin to cure the fear, but never overdo it or expose yourself to harm.
Start by waving a lead rope around the horse’s head, rewarding him with loving strokes and even treats when he doesn’t flinch. You can also flutter an empty plastic bag about two feet away from his face, or squeak rubber dog toys so that he can hear them. Remember not to get frustrated, however, because he might get used to a stimulus one day, then be terrified of it the next. Consistency and repetition are key.
In the Saddle
When you feel that a rescue horse is ready to be placed under saddle, it is extremely important that you invite someone else to assist you with the first few rides. Even if the horse has been calm and obedient on the ground, he may explode when you put a foot in the stirrup, causing either one of you injury. It is usually best to conduct the first five rides or so on the end of a lunge line.
Working with rescue horses will help you understand the nature of the horse to a higher degree, and you might find that you make great friends in the process. Just remember that horse safety is your highest priority, and that even animals take time to heal.
