Has a family member fallen ill? Has your job or a relationship changed? Are you unhappy with the horse’s care at the boarding barn? Anything that’s upsetting you can affect your horse because you are part of your horse’s family. Instead of speaking sharply to your horse and making him “behave,” take a few deep breaths, then talk to your horse, and tell him what is going on in your life. He will most likely take a deep breath while you talk, releasing the tension he had been holding. Sharing what’s going on in your life will also release some of your stress, which will further relax your horse.
Health Emotional and mental stress can affect us physically, resulting in tension headaches, stomach issues, hives, and depression. Similar stressors can also affect our horse’s health. I’ve seen horses get depressed because their beloved herd member died. A horse with an intense show schedule can develop ulcers, and stress with a fellow herd member can bring forth allergies. WHEN YOUR HORSE shows signs of dis-ease, begin the exploration by look-
ing at all four areas mentioned above. Do you feel overwhelmed? Your horse might be picking up on your anxiety. Is your horse overworked or bored? Time to create a more balanced work schedule for him. Is your horse worried about the new puddle in your driveway? Bring him over to sniff, taste, and feel it out. Is your horse concerned about an equine herd member who’s not feeling well? Make sure the other horse is cared for so your horse can relax again. And, most important, explain to your horse when changes are coming up and other news that will have an impact on him. Most often, a few words of simple explanation can help your horse move from dis-ease to ease. Nicole Birkholzer is an equine behavior and communication specialist, originally from Germany, who works with horses and riders across the globe. Nicole helps people create mindful connections with their horses by attuning to and communicating with horses in meaningful and effective ways. Her focus is to understand the logic behind horses’ behaviors and the wisdom in their expression. Interested in building a meaningful, mindful relationship with your horse? Check out Nicole’s webinar series Horse Logic at mindful-connections.com/ online-learning. Nicole also offers private barn calls, phone consultations, and workshops.
A & B INSURANCE GROUP Insurance for All Your Equine Needs
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978-399-0025 | ABInsGroup.com Richard@abinsgroup.com Wendy@abinsgroup.com . John@abinsgroup.com Licensed in MA, NH, VT, ME, CT & RI Massachusetts Horse December/January 2020
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