5 Ways to Help Your Horse Socialize with Other Horses
By Nicole Fava As herd animals, horses thrive in social environments. Isolated box stalls and paddocks, though common, do not allow horses to interact as they would in the wild. Here are five ways to help your horse achieve that much needed social time that they are sure to appreciate! 1. Pasture Turnout Pasture turnout is most likely to emulate a herd setting. Horses develop their own hierarchy of leaders and followers, where many create their own circle of friends. You may notice two horses standing nose-to-tail, swishing flies off each other’s faces during the summer months. Or perhaps you’ll see one horse standing guard as the other lies down to rest. This buddy system benefits your horse immensely, providing a sense of comfort and security. 2. Arena Playtime If you do not have access to pasture turnout, arena turnout is the next best thing! Consider a larger arena and lesser number of horses (two is ideal). You do not want to set multiple horses loose in a smaller space, as this subjects them to injury. You may also consider putting splint boots and bell boots on all horses involved to protect their legs. If you put two playful, respectful geldings in an arena, they are bound to have some fun! Geldings will play in a manner that emulates stallions fighting in the wild. 3. Stabling Next to Other Horses The location of a horse’s stall affects how they socialize on their own. Avoid confining your horse into a stall where they cannot see other horses. A sense of isolation can induce stress, which can in turn cause stable vices such as weaving and pawing. If your horse enjoys the company of others, consider stabling them where they can be close to a neighboring horse. If your horse despises the presence of others (we all know a horse that likes personal space!), a stall where other horses cannot touch or crowd them will make them the happiest. 4. Riding with Buddies Riding with other horses can be very beneficial to your horse’s mental health. Have you ever gone on a trail ride where your horse seems more willing to work than ever? Because horses are herd animals, they prefer to follow a leader or travel in groups. As long as you keep a safe distance between your horse and the other riders around you (typically one horse’s length), riding in a group is bound to be a positive experience. If your horse enjoys group rides but does not enjoy horses within close proximity of their hind end, consider tying a red ribbon in their tail to warn others to keep their space. 5. Getting a Companion Animal Companion animals, such as miniature horses, goats, donkeys, and sheep, are another great way to help your horse socialize. Because companion animals are smaller in size, they provide a smaller risk of injury to your horse. They also tend to be lower maintenance and less expensive compared to full sized horses. Though not all horses will be social butterflies, most require some sort of social interaction to maintain prime mental health. But, as always, your horse’s safety is a top priority! Consult a trainer if you are unsure about which social setting is best for your horse. You’ve heard the saying “let your horse be a horse”, and letting your horse form connections with other animals will do just that!
