Horses to Riders

Do I have to work out today?

A horse greeting their owner is more cat-like than dog-like. You might get a nicker, but you don’t get jumping around and sloppy kisses. Your horse may acknowledge your presence by simply raising his head or flicking an ear. (Frankly, some cats offer less than that.)

I feel Captain has a lot to say. A rotation of an ear, a widening of the eye, an exhale, a rub of his head against his lower leg – tells me exactly how he’s doing on any given day. Typically, this is how Captain responds to given situations:

Situ: I’m making my way toward his paddock with a lead rope in hand

Captain: “Ah, shucks. I was having so much fun doing nothing.”

Situ: The bit is lowered toward his mouth.

Captain: “My previous owner gave me a treat first.”

Situ: We enter the arena for a lesson.

Captain: “Who else is joining us?”

Situ: There are other horses in the ring.

Captain: “Is Ruby here? She’s so pretty.”

Situ: There are NO other horses in the ring.

Captain: “I’m trying not to be scared. But I’m almost scared.”

Situ: Ruby joins us with her rider.

Captain: “How do I look? Did you brush my tail? Ruby notices things like that.”

Situ: Lesson is over.

Captain: “Time for treats! I’ll take carrots, or peppermints or two oatmeal crunches.”

Pretty Ruby

For a more scientific approach to what your horse may be trying to tell you, check out The Horse for seven signs to recognize.

Ruby saying she loves her rider.