How Do You Treat Your Dog?
Is your dog a friend? A companion? A being full of eagerness and curiosity about the world?
Do you and your dog enjoy playing together? Relaxing together? Exploring together?
Dog vs Horse
Now replace the word "dog" with the word "horse." How does that feel to think of interacting with your horse in the same way?
But WAIT!
Dogs are PREDATORS and horses are PREY! They can't be compared to one another or handled in similar ways. They are TOTALLY different!!
Are Dogs and Horses THAT Dissimilar?
Let's get fundamental about this. Horses and dogs have similar needs - feel safe, feel comfortable, have access to food, express themselves in a natural way, have opportunities to move, play, and have social interactions.
Their brains work quite similarly. They share complex emotional systems. Both species are highly intelligent and excellent problem solvers. Either can get stressed out. Dogs and horses experience pain, fear, and joy.
Are there differences too? You bet, but the similarities far outweigh them.
What's the Upside?
Consider the benefits of seeing your horse as a companion with a wide range of abilities, including the ability to connect on a deep emotional level.
Given the right circumstances, horses enjoy learning, participating, and even contributing to activities you can enjoy together.