How Scared Should You Be When Feeding Your Horse: Tips and Training for Safe Feedings
Horses are social creatures that generally wait politely for their feed to be dropped. However, feeding can sometimes be fraught with challenges, especially when dealing with a horse that has learned bad manners or is ill-tempered about being approached for feeding. In this article, we will explore scenarios where horse feeding can be scary and provide tips and training methods to ensure a safe and stress-free feeding experience.
Understanding Horse Feeding Behavior
Horses, contrary to their carnivorous counterparts, are herbivores and require a diet that primarily consists of forage and grain. Proper feeding is crucial for their well-being, and as such, it's important to understand their behavior when it comes to food.
In many cases, horses such as the Marwari stallion I worked with in Rajasthan, can be highly aggressive when confined in a stall because boredom can set in, leading to negative behaviors. Here are some tips on how to deal with such situations:
Addressing Aggressive Behaviors
When dealing with a horse that shows aggression towards its feed, it's essential to understand the root cause of this behavior. Often, the horse has learned that aggression or threats can lead to getting its food. The key to changing this behavior is training and consistency.
For example, I worked with a Marwari stallion that was very aggressive in his stall. Instead of threatening him with punishment, which only made him more aggressive, I started offering to take him out, showing him the halter and lead. However, as soon as he pinned his ears at me, I turned on my heel and walked away. After a few days, he got the message, and we were able to handle him more calmly.
Safe Feeding Practices
Feeding can be scary if a horse has learned to be aggressive. Scenarios such as feeding a mare that has unexpectedly given birth in a pasture full of other mares can lead to a chaotic situation. Here are some steps to ensure safe feeding:
Use Proper Equipment: Always have the necessary equipment, such as a halter, lead rope, and a bucket, ready. Stay Prepared: Have someone assist you in case the horse becomes aggressive and needs to be controlled. Approach Calmly: Move slowly and calmly, allowing the horse to adapt to your presence. Offer Positive Reinforcement: When the horse is behaving well, reward it with a small amount of feed. Stay Observant: Be aware of the surroundings and other horses that might get in the way. Stay Consistent: Always follow the same routine when feeding, and never reinforce bad behavior.Training for Improved Manners
If you are scared to feed your horse, it's essential to seek the help of a professional trainer. A well-trained horse will respect your boundaries and understand the proper way to approach feeding. Here are some steps to take:
Identify the Problem: Understand the reasons behind the horse's aggressive behavior. Start with Basics: Teach your horse basic commands such as 'move back' and 'stand still.' Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behavior with praise or a small treat. Consistency is Key: Always use the same commands and be consistent in your approach. Seek Professional Help: If you are struggling to change your horse's behavior, consider seeking help from a professional trainer.Conclusion
Feeding a horse can sometimes be a challenging task, especially when dealing with an aggressive or fearful horse. By understanding horse behavior, using proper training techniques, and maintaining a consistent approach, you can ensure that feeding is a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your horse. If you are ever scared to feed your horse, consider seeking professional help to address the issue.