Rocking Horse Ranch Horse Handling Handout

Approaching a Horse: When approaching a horse, always consider the horse’s limited field of vision. Horses cannot see directly behind or in front without moving their heads. Approach a horse at the shoulder or as near the neck as possible so that he can see you. Speak softly and call the horse’s name as you approach because he may be asleep. Extend your hand and pat him on the neck or shoulder.

Putting on a Halter: Each horse at RHR has their own halter which is adjusted to their size that is kept on their stalls. To put the halter on the horse, stand on the left side of the horse beside the neck. Slide the halter up over his muzzle on to the head. The long strap (crown piece) comes across the horse’s head behind the ears. Secure the halter with the clip by the cheek. Do not undo the buckle at the crown piece.

Reading Horse Ears: The horse’s ears and actions are the key to his emotions. He can tell you what he is paying attention to and how he feels by the way he uses his ears and the way he acts.

  • Ears forward but relaxed – interested in what’s in front of him
  • Ears turned back but relaxed - listening to his rider or what’s behind him
  • Ears pointed left and right - relaxed, paying attention to the scenery on both sides
  • Droopy ears - calm and subordinate, horse may be dozing
  • Ears pointed stiffly forward - alarmed or nervous about what’s ahead; looking for danger
  • Ears stiffly back - annoyed or worried about what’s behind him; might kick if annoyed
  • Ears flattened against neck - violently angry, in a fighting mood; may fight, bite, or kick

Leading

  • When leading a horse you should be on the horse’s left side (unless leading Beau), between his head and shoulder.
  • Keep a relaxed hold on the lead rope in your right hand about 6 inches from the horse’s chin.
  • Always hold the excess rope with the left hand. Looping excess rope around your hand is dangerous, make sure to fold.
  • Never hold onto the halter or bridle; they do not give you control of the horse if they pull away.
  • Never put a horse back in the stall with a bridle on.