Cheap Pet Insurance

September 25th, 2009 by Richard B. Saunders

We humans share the world with many special animals, of which horses figure prominently. As is true with other highly evolved animals, horses communicate with each other quite effectively. Human beings may not wholly understand this form of interchange, but it is possible, with measured diligence, for people to learn to interpret the equine language.

Horses, since they do not have vocal cords per se, communicate for the most part by positioning their bodies in specific ways. The lexicon of horse body language can include the most subtle of signals from tiny twitches all the way though whole-body movements. The horse has at its disposal any of multiple body parts with which to express a thought or attitude. The underlying intelligence must be understood before a human can effectively interpret these gestures.

Horses can use their ears to express a number of direct statements. Both ears pricked up straight and tense might mean, ?I?m excited,? while both ears twitching back and forth in opposite directions might mean, ?I?m nervous, but not too upset.? Any human working with horses should make the effort to learn the subtle movements and associated behaviors of their horses? ears.

Horses can use their tails for much more than just swatting flies. A relaxed tail often indicates a relaxed and happy horse. However, it can also indicate boredom or confusion. An upright tail can indicate curiosity or suspicion, depending on the situation. Every horse is unique, and will approach an unknown situation differently, thus their tail movements might hold a slightly different meaning.

Keep an eye on your horse?s feet. They can show you whether your horse is calm, nervous or furious. Clearly, if your horse kicks, he is angry. This is an extreme display of emotion that indicates anger or fear. Be careful dealing with an angry horse. Remember that this animal is a lot bigger than you. If he is unhappy, handle with care.

Watch your horse?s neck and head for clues about his happiness and alertness. Even the body can be used to express feeling. Watch for twitching skin, different breathing patterns, and whether your horse is standing at attention or turned around to pay attention to something to one side (or within). Your horse?s head, neck and body can give you clues as to contentment, anger, jealousy and even illness.

Horses display sincere loyalty towards humans who have bonded with them. This bonding is a direct result of the communication skills of both mammals. Horses have given the subtle signs of their mental state, and humans have made the effort to understand this nonverbal communication.

Every person is different and so is every horse. An intelligent horse has a strong desire to cooperate and to bond with an intelligent handler. Over the centuries, horses and people have developed a symbiotic relationship that can be extremely rewarding. The responsibility of making sure it is so falls squarely on the human. Take the time and have the patience to understand your horse, and you are sure to have a rewarding relationship.