horsies

[rm]

So um... how do horses feel about rain? And um... if there were to be say thunder... how would they feel about that? Because... it's grim out there, and I want to know what I'm in for. (Granted, we'll be in the indoor ring, but still, I'm starting to get how sensitive they are, and I figure if I have opinions on weather, they might well too).

Comments

[winterknight.livejournal.com]

It depends on the horse. (I'm so helpful, yes.) Many horses are quite good about thunder and if they're not, the owner will know about it. We used to have "bombproof" horses at the stable where I rode in university and they were trained not to spook even when exposed to cherry bombs and cars backfiring. If you're worried, go ahead and ask for the least spooky horse they can give you.

Horses are funny, funny beasties. I rode one who had a mortal fear of stray plastic bags. It's amazing how many plastic bags there are wandering around the countryside, too! :p Another had a silly affection for motorcycles and would try and follow any that went by. The same horse was shy and avoidant around cows and deer. Wonderful traits for a city park horse, an absolute pain in the country. Yet another got nervy at iced over puddles - I suppose the 'crack' they made when he stepped in them had made him anxious over the years. With all of them, all that was needed was awareness and a firm hand and leg. Quirky animals, really, but so much fun. I miss riding.

[rm.livejournal.com]

Thank you. This is reassuring. Sham is pretty "bomb proof" from what I've been given to understand. I just hope the flies have calmed down today, all the horses were crany as hell last week.

Since they are urban horses, I suppose they are more acclimated to loud noise than many. Although there's one in the stables that has a weird "get close/runaway" thing with trucks.

[schmidtybooger.livejournal.com]

Horses can feel the changes in barometric pressure adn it does make them a bit more skittish (at least the ones I've had). If they're well trained they should be fine. You might have to be more assertive with them though.

Horses and noise..

[labellerose.livejournal.com]

Some of them HATE it, some are unfazed, most in the middle. The horse my daughter rides is a mellow gelding (he's a Norwegian Fjord; they are generally a calm and sensible breed) but He HATES loud noises with a passion. This was, um , interesting when Bush was in town and we had military jets flying overhead. I think he and my daughter understand one another so well because they both have sensory issues.

If this one is 'bomb proof' you should be OK, maybe a little ear action or head tossing but your instructor should be able to help with that no problem.

On an unrealated note, I'm sure you are striking in riding clothes! I think they would suit you perfectly.

[rosemarymint.livejournal.com]

The weather may look grim, but there is no rain on the radar. No rain until maybe tomorrow.

[rm.livejournal.com]

It seems to have been a false alarm -- it was raining when I got up, but is a lovely day now.

Re: Horses and noise..

[rm.livejournal.com]

The horse was just lovely today, although he tripped once and it scared the crap out of me.

I own no riding clothes to speak of, but that's about to change, because lord, I am in so much pain. But thank you. I've always sort of had a fancy for riding clothes, and in all the chaos surrounding this endeavor I'd forogtten that I get to acquire some now.