It’s the perfect season to enjoy hacking with your horse or pony, before the wet and chill of autumn sets in but there’s a slight freshness in the air. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the countryside and bond with your equine as you explore and maybe take on a few fun challenges together. It can also be a social activity to catch up with your horsy friends.
However, some riders find hacking tricky, whether because of behavioural issues with their horse, or their own nerves or inexperience at riding out in the open. Here are some tips to help you and your equine become happy hackers.
Be visible
Safety is your number one priority, especially if you will be riding on the roads. Put a high-vis vest over your equestrian hoodie or jacket, and if the light is poor put fluorescent bandages and an exercise sheet on your horse. This will ensure that you are easily seen by motorists and other road users.
If your horse or pony is nervous in traffic, stick to quieter lanes and quiet times of day until they build up confidence. Riding with a calmer companion can also be a positive influence.
Dealing with open spaces
If your horse or pony has mostly only ever been ridden in an arena, suddenly finding themselves in a wide open space can go to their heads and they may tank off. While a good gallop can be exhilarating, you need to remain in control and be able to stop when you want.
If you have turnout fields at your yard, practice riding in them, varying the pace and direction, and asking questions of your horse so that their attention is on you rather than their surroundings. Repeat this method while you are out hacking in open spaces, until you are confident that your horse will come steadily back to hand after a blast.
Nipping napping in the bud
Some ponies are prone to napping, which is when they refuse to move forwards, and may spin, rear, buck, or even bolt for home. If this happens, first of all make sure there is no physical problem such as ill-fitting tack that is causing the problem.
Riding with a companion can help to encourage a reluctant pony to move forwards, and regular schooling will help him become more responsive to your aids.
Dealing with spookers
Spooking is when a horse takes fright at objects, noises, or sudden movements. Most horses spook occasionally in response to loud bangs or an object blowing across their path, but very spooky horses need to be gradually desensitised in a controlled environment before venturing into bigger spaces and roads.
Introduce variety
If you hack the same route all the time, your horse may begin to anticipate when you canter and become over excited, or start to rush when they know they are on the home stretch. Try to vary your routes to stop these habits forming: it will also make hacking more fun and stimulating for both of you.
