09-27-2017, 01:07 AM
Watch where they go to rest or feed. Take a comfortable chair and just sit nearby. They will get used to you and slowly ease over to you. Horses are more about proximity than contact but they do love a good scratch. A good butt scratch is the sure and certain way to a horse's heart but you must start near the shoulder and work your way back as their trust grows. If you see a "nervous foot" or a stomp, back up and try again later. Depending on the horse and your self control, it can take from hours to months to make friends.
As mentioned, strong smells can upset them but some odors seem to draw them. Mine seem to love Hall's Menthol cough drops. Don't flinch when they "get in your face". That is a normal greeting and showing that you enjoy it is a major step. Do freak if you see flat ears and open mouth.
Horses are far more social than humans. They literally live the buddy system. If there is an odd number of horses in any group, one of them will be looking for a buddy. Observe their interactions until you can figure out which one then concentrate on that one. When that one accepts you, the rest will follow. Understand that there will be some responsibility inherent in gaining this or any horse's trust. Horses are expert at reading emotion and know if you are faking it.
