by Sweetie, age 13

Everyone wants to enjoy a special bond with their horse or pony, but how do you get it? Follow these tips and be your horse’s best friend.

• Grooming is a great way to improve your partnership with your horse. Horses groom each other in the herd. But hand grooming is even better than grooming with brushes. You need to respect his personal space, too. Don’t just walk up to the horse and throw his tack or a rug on him, be slow and careful.
• It’s great to spend loads of time riding your horse, but to form a strong bond with him you need to spend time just being with him. Go out onto the field with your pony, and just walk around with him like another horse would. Remember the field is where he lives, so if he doesn’t want you to be there, don’t force him to follow you. Be sensible too. Wear a hat (helmet), don’t sit down and only do this when your horse is alone in the field.
• It’s annoying when a horse spooks when you’re riding, but it is a natural instinct for them. Don’t be angry, just stroke his neck and reassure him. If you’re not scared, he’ll know that he shouldn’t be and he’ll trust you.
• Be considerate when you’re riding. Your horse isn’t a bike! Don’t make him stand around for a long time in hot weather because your friend wants to talk to you and don’t keep jumping the same fence because you love to jump. He’ll get exhausted and he won’t want to jump! Be a caring rider and always think about your horse.

Building a bond with a horse takes a long time. Be patient and understanding. Your horse will love you for it!