What is a Spooky Horse?
"Spooking" is a horse’s natural startle reaction to something that frightens them or to something they perceive as threatening. A horse’s first instinct is flight rather than fight and so it is common for a spooky horse to charge off at the sight or sound of something fearful.
Unfortunately, what your horse perceives as fearful may range from any loud noise such as a motorbike, or thunder to the most inconspicuous and harmless rustling of a newspaper or the sight of a sheet on a washing line. Some horses are also more easily startled than others, making them a little unpredictable.
Managing a Spooky Horse
The best way to manage a spooked rearing horse is through the proper training. Remember that while you may not be able to train your horse not to be afraid, you can train them to react differently when they are afraid and to turn to you for reassurance rather than simply running away. It’s also important to gradually desensitize your horse to the things he’s afraid of, or potentially scary situations.
Help for a Spooky Horse
Natural Herbal and Homeopathic Remedies
Some horses are more prone to becoming spooked or startled than others. For these horses, it helps to know that there are a number of homeopathic ingredients that can help reduce fear and calm anxious temperaments. The homeopathic ingredient Chamomilla is renowned for its calming properties and has often been used to reduce fear, restlessness and irritability.
Kali. Phos. is another useful ingredient which has a history of use in the treatment of nervous system conditions. This homeopathic ingredient can be used with great success to reduce stress, and calm horses with nervous dispositions. Phosphorus and Asarum can also be used to ease nervousness and anxiety so often caused by unfamiliar sounds or surroundings.
Order 24 Hours a Day 1.877.289.1235
