Hello again, fellow equestrians!

Of course, you want to build great relationships with your horses!

Horses have a unique ability to convey messages within their herd without visible or audible communication. Have you ever walked into the barn after a particularly hard day, and had your horse nicker at you through the stall door? Most of us have. It’s almost as if they can sense that you need their support. Our equine friends possess an extraordinary ability to understand the creatures around them. Simply put, it’s part of their survival instinct.

A friend of mine once asked why her horses were more receptive to me than to her. It was true — her horses did seem to prefer me. So, I asked her, “Would you sacrifice the life of your favorite horse to save your worst enemy?” She replied without hesitation, “No way!” I explained, “There’s your answer. If your horse senses that you prioritize their well-being over that of another human, they may struggle to trust you completely, as it goes against their natural instincts. Truly gaining their trust and forming a deep bond means you must balance your care for them with the understanding that your species’ survival matters to you too.”

Building trust starts within you! It’s up to you to nurture your relationship with your equine family. Avoid barn drama and refrain from speaking poorly of others. Your horse will sense your ethics. Remember, trust is like an avalanche — once it starts, it will grow rapidly. When your fellow farmers trust you impeccably, you create an environment that is both safe and joyful for everyone involved.

As a gentle and loving person, remember that your horse relies on you to provide both confidence and leadership. A benevolent leader has no limits. Prioritize your animals by feeding them before you eat your meals. If possible, check on them during the night or board them at a stable with a reliable night-check schedule. Nighttime is when horses are most vulnerable. Life-threatening issues, like casting or colic, can arise unexpectedly.

Love your farm family — both the farmers and the animals — without conditions. Just be there for them, and you’ll enjoy a fantastic future with your magnificent horses and the people who help care for them

Keep learning and exploring with your horses and always seek to deepen your understanding of their world. The journey of building trust and camaraderie with these incredible creatures is a lifelong adventure. Always remember that in the world of equestrianism, your journey is your destination!