by Mary Gallagher
Astute observation by many horsemen over the years has clarified the horse’s need for the herd as a place to feel safe in an uncontrolled environment. As a trainer for many years, I have come to understand and respect what a huge part ‘uncontrolled environment’ plays in their learning ability. Simply put, horses learn better if they feel safe, and the environment is key. So within the environment ‘out there’ beyond our work space, I need to: 1) establish a safe environment in which to cultivate leadership and healthy boundaries, and
2) establish my place in our herd hierarchy of two by doing so.
The more competent the leadership, the less threatening the environment; the safer the environment, the more opportunities for learning.
