If you’ve pulled off the shoes, and removed the jointed snaffle, why not celebrate?
I’ve come to think of us natural horsecare people as the hippies of the equine world. Are we not ‘fighting the man’, who insists on metal shoes and even firmer discipline? So you’ll see why I smiled at this page…
http://horses.about.com/od/grooming/tp/Decorate-Your-Horse.htm
It won’t strengthen your horse’s hooves.
It won’t improve your horse’s behaviour.
But it will show you how to deck your horse out, ready for Woodstock 1969.
If you’re a horse loving hippy, shout and scream about it. Afterall, isn’t it healthy to remember why we keep horses in the first place? We enjoy it, right? Let’s not forget to have fun.
And now onto Jeremy.
“Releasing your horse’s inner hippy” is about embracing a more natural, relaxed approach to horsemanship that prioritizes the horse’s emotional and physical well-being. This philosophy encourages creating an environment and training style that align with a horse’s natural instincts and social needs. Rather than rigid training methods or heavy reliance on equipment, this approach is about fostering a horse’s trust, curiosity, and sense of freedom.”
“To start, giving horses regular time to roam in open pastures is essential. Horses are natural grazers and herd animals, thriving in environments that allow for social interaction, movement, and grazing throughout the day. Allowing them to live in a more natural environment, ideally with other horses, helps reduce stress and promotes healthier behavior. Many owners find that the more time a horse spends in a low-stress, natural setting, the calmer and more cooperative they become.”
“Training with gentle, positive techniques rather than dominance-based methods is another key aspect. This means focusing on cues that the horse understands and responds to naturally, using treats, encouragement, and praise to reinforce good behavior.”
“Barefoot hoof care, bitless bridles, and even minimal tack are other “hippy-friendly” choices that many horse owners embrace. These options prioritize comfort, helping the horse move more freely and naturally. Some owners also incorporate alternative therapies like massage, aromatherapy, or acupuncture to support relaxation and well-being.”
“By taking this holistic, “horses inner hippy” approach, owners can create a lifestyle that lets the horse’s natural personality flourish. It results in a calmer, happier horse that feels more relaxed, connected, and willing to bond, creating a deeply satisfying partnership. Jeremy”
Next up
What is your opinions about the Assey style of saddles w or w/out a tree?
Im not a horse hippy or a “strict discipline and steel shoes” gal. My horse is barefoot but i ride with a bit. Im assertive with my gal. I guess im just in the middle. But its ok because i have the best of both worlds 😀
What does it mean to “release your horse’s inner hippy”?
“Releasing your horse’s inner hippy” means using a natural, relaxed approach to horsemanship that prioritizes a horse’s comfort, well-being, and natural instincts. This includes practices like letting them graze freely, socializing with other horses, using gentle training techniques, and minimizing restrictive tack to create a calm, happy, and cooperative horse.