#1. Friendly Game

The Friendly Game

The point of this game is to prove to the horse that you are his friend, and that you do not intend to harm him.  It is the most important game, and should be played before and after all the other games.  Using rhythmic motion you gain your horse's confidence.

You may start with a carrot stick if you have a horse that is liable to kick or bite, or just is not confident enough yet for you to touch him with your hands.  Stand in zone 2 and rub him all over. Be sure not to pat your horse, they do not like it.  Their skin is more sensitive than humans' (although it may not seem like it for some horses who have been made dull to pressure).  When rubbing, be sure not to avoid any "can't, won't, don't or yeah-but" spots. These are the areas horses go "yeah - but you can't touch me there!" Don't keep going straight for these areas, use approach and retreat. Don't dwell on the things you can't do yet, just make a mental note of it, and remember to do a little more everyday.

After you can successfully do that, swing your carrot stick around. To properly prepare for this, you could throw the rope over the horse's back first.  This is preparation for saddling in the future, you will place your saddle on just like you are placing the rope on his back.  Make sure to do this from both sides.

This game is also where you will help your horse gain confidence with new objects, such as plastic, umbrellas, ect...

Remember, all this and MORE is outlined in the Savvy System Levels 1-3.