How to safely introduce a new horse to your herd.

This is a start to finish introduction of a clients mare into the mare herd.
I separate the boys from the girls for a number of reasons probably foremost of which is that it keeps the herds mentally open to new members rather then becoming small closed herds with 1 gelding aiming to control 1 or more mares.

I have never had an introduction injury when following this process.

This particular introduction was more energetic then usual due to the presence of an orphan foal the herd has adopted and was protecting.

Step 1
On arrival to the property let the new horse settle with hay in a yard until they feel ready to sensibly handle the high stress of meeting a new herd. This can be anywhere from 10 minutes to 2 hours and may need a buddy preferably from the new herd nearby to be a good example.

Step 2
Make sure the horse you are introducing has a basic understanding of the back cue and that you can get them out of your space when required.

Step 3
Bring the new horse into an open area of the paddock. Even if you are being followed by the herd. If you walk briskly you will avoid getting crowded. DO NOT let anyone swing in front of you during this process.

Step 4
No horse is allowed to say "Hi" to the new horse without first disconnecting from their movements towards the new horse and politely saying "Hi" to you, through a sniff of the hand. If anyone tries to push past you, turn the new horse with you as you persistently place yourself between the new horse and the impolite herd member.

Step 5
Ensure you turn away any herd member that approachs too fast or with any sign of aggression including intense posturing.

Step 6
If the new horse is beginning to tense thier posture, squeals, strikes, rears, kicks or shows any sign of aggression. Back them firmly out of the situation.

Step 7
When everyone who is interested in saying hello has done so and everything settles. Move the new horse a little away so there is space all around them and release them carefully making sure there is no pulling or rushing away.

Step 8
Move out of the way about 20 metres is enough. Let everyone have their squeals and sillyness now. The energy will be lower and the play won't last long. This stage can vary greatly depending on the time of day and mood of the herd. This release was relatively energetic as we had a cool change in the air as well as a foal to protect.

Step 9
If anyone comes to hang around you make sure you are an oasis of calm, there is to be no fighting in your presence. Anyone showing aggression near you should be backed up or sent away from the oasis after one warning. In my case the warning sign is a hand up single finger pointed or a touch of the chest.

Step 10
When everything is settled remove yourself from the paddock. There may be a run approximately 2 to 3 hours after initial release. Especially with the boys. This is more of a play and bonding exercise then a problem and can be a joy to watch.

Видео How to safely introduce a new horse to your herd. канала Black Pearl Horses