Can you train trust?
How would you go about helping a horse overcome his fears and phobias?Anna Haines shares some of the positive training techniques she uses
Photos: Peter Nixon
Rehoming charities, sanctuaries and other similar organisations come across many different types of equines from a variety of backgrounds. While some are healthy, well-rounded individuals, others have behavioural or psychological problems that would benefit from rehabilitation.
The need for good behaviour isn’t just limited to sanctuary animals – it’s just as important that your own horse is calm, content and a pleasure to have around. After all, a nervous horse can be quite challenging to work with. However, the secret to a harmonious relationship is patience, regardless of your starting point. We take a look at some of the horses at the Mare and Foal Sanctuary – and how, with the help of the staff, they managed to overcome their biggest phobias.
Our expert
Anna Haines
is a clinical animal behaviourist and full member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors, and has been a freelance equine behaviour consultant since 2012. She has a BSc (Hons) in Animal Behaviour, and an MSc in Applied Animal Behaviour and Welfare, specialising in equines.
Why behaviour matters
Within the sanctuary setting, the behaviour team and care staff work with a wide range of cases, each of which require careful consideration and the development of an individual behaviour modification programme. All equines within the sanctuary are required to have regular checks from professionals such as vets and farriers, too, which means that lots of training’s needed to ensure they’re as confident and relaxed about the procedures as they can be.