Why do horses do what they do and people do what they do? And why does the show ring seem to magnify those emotions and reactions? Brain freezes, butterflies and blow-ups…all part of the completive experience.

When we, as riders, understanding the science of how horses view their world, it helps to nip mishaps in the bud. As a prey animal a horse feels vulnerable in unfamiliar territory. As a social creature, his instinct tells him there’s safety in numbers. On course, without his buddies, the in- gate beckons powerfully!

And as social beings, we feel vulnerable when people are watching!

Fear, shame and anger are quick to rise to the surface. Emotions can muddle the signals we send to our horses and prevent us from thinking through a training set back logically.

Turn your ear to wisdom and apply your heart to understanding… and look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure…Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you. Proverbs 2, The Bible.