I believe they do…when given the opportunity.
So recently I was trying to think of the many ways I could inspire my, used to be, shut down horse to open up. To see the world in a way that he didn’t have to avoid human engagement. A world where he didn’t need to be “obedient”, or linearly controlled.
You see, while my sweet, innocent, and adorable boy Ransom will do anything you ask of him, he has this underlying need. This need manifests itself as mouthy biting behavior that is unpleasant to everyone, including the other horses.
I say “behavior” because it is an expression that I personally feel, after some recently acquired knowledge and research, has been used to label him. With new “eyes” I now interpret his mouthiness as an expression of emotion, or a combination of emotions. Yes, that’s right…I said emotions!
Horses, like other mammals, have emotions. These emotions manifest in ways that can seem confusing to those of us who have never been given the supportive knowledge to understand them. Emotions, whether deemed good or bad, are a necessary component of a mammals everyday survival, and care.
So with that in mind I set out on a journey to find a way to understand just what it is Ransom is asking for. This lead me to ask if he even knows how to play, or express joy. Well, let’s find out. Out come the big exercise balls in the play area.
After several days of giving him the freedom to express his playful side, and to let him know that “it’s okay” he finally let out his “inner foal” lol. Wow! I’ve never seen such joy in horse, I don’t think. Ransom was, and is, a totally different horse now. Truly, a fun and energetic horse to be around. He makes me want to play, and I often do!
Has the mouthiness stop you may be asking? I will say his overall mood has improved. He doesn’t bite, but he does still seek. Seeking is a totally normal, and I am totally fine with it. I am now able to help him manage the urge to “grab”, and instead allow him to settle enough to be petted on the nose. I am able to halter him with less and less nipping. This is a huge victory for us. All because I took the time to listen, and I mean, really listen. Granted I am listen to him with my “heart”.
I have taken steps to halter him in alternative ways that are not so triggering to him. Slowly he is getting his needs met, and realizing that I truly am listening.
While I don’t know his total history, I can suppose there is some underlying baggage, just like me, that needs to be “let go of”. I am following my heart and instincts, as well as, really good scientific data to help us both.
No matter what, I am doing my very best to let him know, “I’m in it for the long haul my friend! I get you!” So, I hope you will enjoy the video. He is now doing these silly things every time, and I don’t even try to contain my laughter anymore. I’m just happy he’s happy!
As always, May God Bless on your journey!
-Annie 🙂