bombproofing

Question
So I just got a new horse last week.I've known him for a year and i actually took lessons on him.I was just wondering how to bomb proof him.Like what will I need.He is already pretty calm.I wanted to be in parades with him with my friends so yeah.Oh and also he cribs he wears a collar but I was wondering if there are ways to get him to not have to wear it.

Answer
Hi Bree'a!

As for training him to be "bombproof" you will need to introduce him to new and potentially scary situations...in a planned and controlled manner.

I like the Clicker Training method.  You can Google it and purchase a clicker at your local pet store.  The same technique that is used on dogs, works on horses too.  Show him balloons, banners, tarps on the ground and such in the safety of your arena using the clicker method to reward calm behavior.

Also, lots of trail riding, including off trail through the woods, hacking on pavement and teaching him to safely leave a group of other horses would be helpful.

All of these exercises must be approached slowly and with a plan.  It may take a long time to train him to his new job and you should never try to rush or force him.  That will get you nowhere but hurt.  Take your time to do it correctly and the rewards will be a safe and pleasurable mount in all situations.

Lastly, I do not approve of any manmade objects being left on horses to cure or curb what we consider undesirable behaviors.  While cribbing is awful ( I have a confirmed cribber in my barn )there are far worse vices a horse could have.  Vets have begun to dispel the old-wives' tales about how dangerous cribbing is.  It rarely if ever causes all the bad things many say it does such as decreased appetite and colic.  Have your vet check out your guy and if his weight is good and he is otherwise healthy, take off the collar and see what happens.  Remove any items that he likes to crib on, give him plenty of turn-out and exercise and maintain a healthy diet for him.  Experiment and see what works.

Good luck and remember to always wear an ASTM/SEI approved helmet!

Solange