“Horses need a job.”
Often, we hear that horses ‘need a job’.
And all too often, this is interpreted as being ridden frequently and/or advancing training under saddle.
However, if you find that your horse needs time off from riding, is too young to begin rigorous training, or even retired from riding, there are other ‘job’ options.
I believe is important for our horses to be mentally stimulated and move their bodies on a daily basis. Did you know that horses in the wild or even on a track system, sometimes travel 15 - 30+ miles per day?
When living on a track system, they are encouraged to move consistently over varying terrains and obstacles, which is incredibly beneficial for their hooves, bodies and minds. When living in a herd, they are able to get some mental stimulation through social situations as well. However, these setups may not be possible for many horse owners and even still, stepping away from their day to day setup, is incredibly beneficial for their overall development.
All this being said, I don’t think “having a job” should strictly be referred to as working under saddle, but that’s the meaning we tend to default to when we say/hear it.
“Having a job”, in my opinion, should relate to any consistent activities or form of partnership training that encourages movement and/or mental progression. Horses are incredibly intelligent creatures that can learn so much.
If we do ride our horse frequently, and that is their typical job, it’s never a bad idea to revisit these too. Even with all the activities we could do, we’re all guilty of commonly defaulting to just a handful and occasionally remember to squeeze others in. Sometimes taking a break from riding, especially when in a lull is the best thing!
Below are some ideas to get your horse moving and mentally stimulate them. Many of these activities pair together nicely and provide a great opportunity to bond with your horse. These can become training sessions of their own, so break them down and take your time. There is no need to overdo it or be in a rush.
Tying
Standing tied and at liberty for any of the following:
bathing
grooming
leg handling, hoof handling, hoof care, trimming and shoeing
fly spray, fly gear, fly masks, fly boots, fly sheets, and winter blanketing
Groundwork basics (walking, stopping, standing, trotting, backing up, shifting weight, moving the shoulders, moving the hinds, telescoping the neck down and out, etc. etc.)
Lateral groundwork
‘Lunging’ at liberty in the round pen
Lunging on a line, in various areas, with/without tack
Taking a walk around your property, and expanding the perimeter
Ponying along side another horse
Physical therapy or corrective exercises (such as using poles or hills)
Carrot stretches, leg stretches, etc.
Standing in the cross ties
Desensitizing or ‘resensitizing’ in it’s many various forms
Practice loading and trailering, even for just a short trip
Here’s the thing I wish for you to take away from this list.
Can your horse do these things with you?
Or are they doing them for you?
Are you taking note of their behaviors?
What are those behaviors? Are they aversive? Does their head come up when you approach? Do you feel any resistance on their part? Or are they willingly taking part in the activities that you are doing together?
