Barn Life FAQ
What is "BE-time" with my horse?
BE-time is time spent with your horse without an agenda. Examples:
- Walks in hand
- Slow, attentive grooming that lets the horse guide you
- Standing together while you chat with a barn friend
- Very slow, soft body exercises
Leave food and snacks out of it. BE-time helps you read your horse's body language, notice signs of discomfort, and build trust in both directions.
Should I reward my horse with treats?
In general, let good behavior be its own reward: praise in a soft voice, stroke a favorite spot, and be a calm presence. Offer snacks outside the context of reward, just to socialize. The exception is high-value treats used to establish a specific behavior, such as lining up at the mounting block.
How can I build a stronger bond with my horse?
Three things to practice:
- Don't hand out treats constantly as rewards.
- Step in when other horses or people crowd your horse, so he feels safe with you.
- Treat every interaction as a conversation rather than demanding obedience at all costs.
The exception is dangerous behavior, which must stop immediately.
How can I show gratitude in the barn?
Say "thank you" so you mean it. Leave a little note. Share something you have extra of. Send a photo of someone's horse. Or pass on a book you bought twice, with a thank-you written inside the cover.