Training Tip #1

 Should I hand feed my horse?

     I think this question is a matter of opinion and common sense. I have witnessed many of hand fed horses that somehow go from sweet to sassy in the blink of a plastic crinkle! I've seen lesson horses hand fed and the instructor wonders why they are walking all over the students as if they don't even exsit. I see owners correcting them for not standing still or invading thier space for a treat.  I believe it can be down right dangerous.  

The next major problem is that the horse is "misbehaving", let's just say he's not standing still on the cross ties. Now he gets a shank in the face or a whack on the shoulder. Really? Common sense tells me he is looking for his treat. So the reward or kind gesture that you were trying to make has now become  a double edge sword.   I lack to see where this builds trust and confidence. In my opinion the risk out weighs the reward. Wait a minute , what reward? 

Solution:  Put the carrot/treat in his feeder!! He will love it just the same and you will feel good too!!

Quote: "Everything we do is for the good of the horse."

George Morris

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