Understanding a horse's psychology and how they observe their surroundings is a crucial concept when addressing this common issue. Understanding their perspective as prey animals, we unlock the key to transforming them into willing partners who willingly cooperate with us. Imagine stepping into your horse's hooves and comprehending why something as simple as a horse trailer can evoke such fear in them. Horses are wired to survive in the wild, and that is why they have strong reactive instincts, but as we domesticate them, we nurture their cognitive abilities. By engaging their thinking side, we diminish the reactive tendencies that lead to challenging behaviors, like biting or spooking. While we can't erase this innate part of their brain, we can certainly shrink it significantly!
Horses grappling with trailer issues are tapping into their reactive instincts, perceiving the trailer as a potential threat to their safety. It's akin to being asked to cross a room teeming with snakes – a daunting task made easier only when trust is established. Just as we wouldn't expect a person to confront their fears without reassurance, horses too need time to investigate and feel secure in unfamiliar situations, such as loading into a trailer. By fostering respect and trust, we pave the way for a harmonious partnership where horses willingly rely on us for guidance, comfort, and security. Once this bond is forged, they eagerly follow our lead, knowing we have their best interests at heart.
There are two primary reasons why your horse might be hesitant to enter the horse trailer:
A. They lack respect and trust in you, making them uncomfortable entering a confined space that suppresses their instinct to flee, causing them to feel trapped and claustrophobic.
B. They have a genuine fear of the trailer.
Moving their feet will address both issues. This involves earning their respect, establishing trust, and stimulating their analytical thinking.
Achieving a positive and cooperative relationship with a horse primarily involves investing the required time and effort to earn the horse's respect, exhibit your reliability, and ensure its comfort and relaxation in your presence and during activities together. Building this rapport is a gradual process, and during this period, it is beneficial to give the horse space to explore the trailer, apply and release pressure appropriately, and avoid hurrying or immediately closing the gate behind them once they are inside. Have lots of patience when working with them, reassure them they are safe, and build their confidence.
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