Preparing for vet procedures

Hertha · Preparing for vet procedures

There is an interesting BlogTalk radio program about this. How using the clicker can help your horse stand still and relaxed when another person approaches to touch him.

Also, how doing procedural simulations using the click/treat dynamic to let the horse know exactly what you'd like him to do (in this case, usually mostly NOTHING except stay calm, is a great way to build our own confidence about vet visits so it will be easier for us to maintain the 'ho-hum' attitude.

This is probably more important than anything else, because 90% of the horse's response will be based on how he reads your intent and inner calm.

If you click on the link below, the radio casts are in a box on the left and you can scroll down to one called, HELPING YOUR VET WITH THE CLICKER.

http://www.clickhorselearningcenter.com/

It also talks about procedures like spraying and being comfortable in a very tight spot such as 'stocks'. Also confidence with giving up a foot for inspection and handling around and in the mouth for dental care.

These are obviously crucial skills for horses and horse handlers

thelmanelle

Yes, and while I don't actually use the clicker training totally, this works with more and more time spent doing example in the stocks ,etc. for the vet, farrier, etc.

We have an appt. soon for one of the Belgians and I am grateful that I have taken the time with help around to show them the stocks are okay and a horse buddy can be near.

As a team, they will go see the vet together to make things go even smoother as a calming effect.

CoolsLadyInRed

Even though I haven't used a clicker, my mare has stood stock still for any and every vet appt. She sleeps while the vet works. I truly have a wonderfully relaxed horse. the vet said she has never had such a calm horse. injections and dental care. Sorry, had to brag. I love my horse...can you tell???