The Reality of Instinct: When Horses React Suddenly
A flicker of fear, an instinctive surge, a lightning-fast shift. The rider is off before they even knew to hold on.
That is the reality of horses responding instinctively...
and just as nature designed.
Our Gentle Herd
Our herd of 10 horses at Cheyne Ranch are incredibly kind and intuitive, capable of forming special connections with our students. They are affectionate and people-loving, they offer comfort and calm, demonstrating remarkable emotional intelligence. Yet, despite their gentle nature, they remain animals driven by powerful instincts. Like all horses, a sudden rustle in the leaves, an unnerving shadow, or an unidentified noise can trigger their natural flight response. They move quickly away from the perceived threat, shifting their hind end in a flash of movement.
Safety First
Safety is our first and highest priority, we research and implement proven safety measures, we have a PATH certification, we select calm well natured horses and we continuously train them for their jobs here. Our horses feel good - they all see a horse vet, chiropractor, equine dentist and farrier all on regular schedules.
We educate our students on the horse's impressive capacity for emotions, awareness, and thought. Partnering with the horse and respecting their sentience directly relates to improved safety, through awareness, respect and understanding. Yet, we are also realistic: horses are animals, and they can be unpredictable, and occasionally riders lose their balance.
Falls Happen
Yes, falls can happen, but they are rare and typically minor, like a scraped knee from learning to ride a bike, or a bruised elbow from falling on the ice in hockey. We see falls as a natural part of learning, building resilience and confidence. We teach safe falling and when appropriate, getting back in the saddle and carry-on.
Transformative Partnership
But here's the magic: the transformative power of partnering with a horse. The student’s improved communication, their surge of confidence, their heightened awareness—these are the rewards that make the journey so worthwhile. Even the experience of carrying on after a minor fall strengthens a rider’s resolve. At Cheyne Ranch, we believe that the unique connection forged with these gentle giants is an experience that truly changes lives.
