Tolerance-Acceptance-Respect-Partnership

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When horses learn a skillset, they are then asked to use the skillset regularly.  It’s important to understand that just because a horse has learned the skillset, and is doing the task, it doesn’t necessarily mean the horse is comfortable doing it or fully understands the job.  This is the stage of “tolerance” and does require thoughtful commitment from the handler to help the horse repeat the task or exercise until a level of comfort has been reached.  The handler needs to ask the question with clarity to encourage the horse to answer with the “exact right answer” every time.  “Tolerance” can be a tricky stage in training, because this is when a horse can regress to previous behaviors, choose to provide many different answers when being asked the question or simply show overwhelmed behaviors because too much is being asked at once.  What I see is most common in the “tolerance” stage is there is usually an imbalance within the Framework.  For example, for a horse that is missing the emotional stability needed, perhaps there has been a change in the horse hierarchy within the herd, or there is a buddy sour problem.  If a horse is lacking the mental acuity needed, perhaps the horse needs more repetition and more clarity in the exercises.  If a horse is lacking in the physical capability needed, then perhaps the horse is tolerant because it is uncomfortable or compensating for a stiffness or discomfort in the body.  

When a horse moves from “tolerance” to “acceptance,” there will be very noticeable changes in demeanor, willingness and confidence.

After the horse has learned a skillset, repeatedly answers the question correctly and is showing proficiency at the skillset, the horse may be entering the “acceptance” stage of learning.  The horse may show more confidence in performing the skillset, may even anticipate getting the job done and may start trying to please the handler before being asked to do so.  The goal is to see a horse “happy” to provide the answer(s) to the tasks, emotionally, physically and mentally.  Ideally, when a horse is in the “acceptance“ stage, the horse provides less incorrect answers, and shows a willingness through forward and focus.  Perhaps one of the most important parts of the “acceptance“ stage is that the handler has provided a safe place and safe space to learn based on the key ingredient, relaxation.  

Horses absolutely start to respect their handler if clear boundaries are created, questions are asked with clarity, and commitment to the process is provided regularly.  How does a horse show respect?  Through everyday actions, where the horse provides the right answer majority of the time, the horse understands the training process and willingly participates even when there are distractions and challenges in the environment.  Respect per each individual horse towards each individual handler is unique and should be valued.  Respect is earned, not taken.  Remember, we are predators, so earning the respect of these beautiful prey animals is a gift and again, is a unique journey.

At The Natural Connection Inc, partnership is the ultimate goal.  Each partnership finds their “natural connection” in their own unique ways, but it sure feels amazing when it happens.  “Partnership” is when the trust kicks in.  The horse has learned to trust in your leadership through questionable situations.  The horse seeks out your company and recognizes your vehicle, stature, voice, smell and touch.  The horse trusts your process and thus is “happy” to engage in whatever activity you choose because it’s not about the destination, but about the journey to get there together, because you make your time challenging yet enjoyable.  The horse becomes “your horse.”