How to Train a Rescue Horse

Rescue horses can be any breed and from any discipline, but they all have a few things in common: They all need time, patience and a nurturing hand to help them fully recover. Re-training them is possible if done correctly.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Put the horse in a pen or pasture and observe it for a few days. Determine what kind of training the horse has had and what kind of temperament he has. Some rescue horses adjust quickly and are very willing to work with you. Others may have been abused and refuse to interact with humans without much time and slow work.
2. Allow the horse to gain trust in you by being consistent. Feed and talk to him every day. Groom him and pet him as often as possible. This can build a good relationship between you and the horse, even if he resists at first.
3. Put a halter on the horse and lead him around with you in the pen. Then move beyond the fence. Lead him around with you everywhere on your land. Get him used to the sights and sounds of your property and allow him to become comfortable following you.
4. Work with the horse on ground manners and control. Teach him to stand quietly while tied, pick up his hooves and clean them daily, groom and bathe him, saddle him and put a bridle and bit on him. Work him in a round pen with and without a saddle and bridle on. Use verbal commands to stop and turn him while working in the pen.
5. Ride the horse in the safety of a small pen or round pen for the first few times. If the horse has been ridden before, you may be able to leave the pen sooner than if he has never been ridden. Take your time and have patience. Some horses may have been abused while being ridden and need time to realize that you are not the abuser.

Tips & Warnings

• Never use force to push a rescue horse to do anything. Some rescue horses were beaten or abused and may react dangerously to a hand being lifted or a rope swinging around.