- 1). Begin with a horse that leads well and has learned to trust you. Your horse must walk and whoa without issue, and even back on command. Make sure this is done before attempting the next step.
- 2). Allow the horse to investigate the tarp while it is on a fence or in your hand. Expect a lot of snorting, blowing and dancing around. Reassure the horse with your voice and hands until he brings his nose forward to sniff it. Praise him when he does.
- 3). Ask your horse to allow the tarp to be brought to him. Expect the same reaction as above, especially when the tarp makes all those scary sounds. Continue until the horse allows the tarp to be rubbed on his nose, and even rubbed on his neck. Make sure your praise equals the accomplishment.
- 4). Once the horse accepts the tarp, place it on the ground at his feet. Allow him to look at it beneath him, and encourage him to bend down and sniff it. Then ask him to place his feet on it. At this point, stepping on the tarp should be no problem. Be patient and firm until the horse understands that you want his feet on it. Praise him when he complies.
- 5). Repeat the lesson until the horse does not flinch or pause when you ask him to step on the tarp. Repeat the lesson the next day, and each day after, for at least 6 to 10 days. By then, it will have become a simple lesson that your horse should have no trouble with.
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