Friday, March 16, 2012

Horse Calmers: Four Steps to a Calmer Horse

Horses, like humans, have their own personalities. Some are naturally a bit more anxious than others, although by nature, horses are on the alert. This is what helps them survive in the wild. However, when you are heading in to the ring for a dressage competition, saddling up for a long trail ride, or about to transport your horse, you definitely want to keep anxiety at bay. Horse calmers can be a welcome solution to equine stress.

Horse Calmers- An Anxious Free Horse

If you want to keep your horse calm, here are four steps you can take.

Horse Calmers- When you are training, riding, or competing with your horse, you don't want to take the chance of spooking a stressed or nervous horse. This could result in an injury to either you or the horse. One of the best ways to prevent this is by using horse calmers that contain tryptophan. Tryptophan is a natural supplement that will not affect performance or cause your horse to be sluggish, but will promote feelings of well being.

Quality Horse Calmers- Proper Diet - The right food can affect your horse's mood. Certain substances, such as molasses, can cause excess energy if too much is consumed. Consider placing your horse on a hay and grass diet, supplementing it with vitamins, minerals, and a salt block. If you do want to use grains, make sure the grains are high in fibre, not fat. This will help reduce the amount of excess energy your horse has.

Head Position- Have you ever seen a horse buck and go wild when it had its head down? No? That's mainly because horses are thought to be much calmer when their heads are low. When they raise their heads, a fight or flight reaction is triggered, causing the horse to react negatively to their surroundings. When this happens, the horse can't think, concentrate on what you are telling him to do, or learn anything. Use a signal on your horse's halter to teach him to keep his head low, just below his withers. He will then be able to react rationally to his surroundings and learn more easily.

You Can Help- When you are on or around your horse, you are half of the problem. If you walk into the barn or stable and are feeling anxious, nervous, or stressed, your horse is going to know. He will pick up on your insecurities and will react to them. If you want your horse to be calm, consider using some breathing techniques before you go near your horse. Try relaxing and perhaps do a bit of meditation before you go for a ride. Once you are calm, your horse will be more comfortable and calm as well.

Protect yourself and your beloved equine from injury by using these steps to calm down your horse. With the right horse calmers, the right food, and a stress-free environment, your horse will be able to learn and adapt to new situations and surroundings much more easily. Cheap Horse Calmers

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