How to Bomb Proof a Horse

Before a horse is ready to be ridden by anyone other than an advanced rider, she will need to overcome her fear of the unfamiliar. This is called "sacking out" or "bomb proofing." The idea is to expose the horse to a variety of "scary" stimuli while showing her that nothing bad will happen as a result.

Things You'll Need

  • "Frightening" stimuli such as tarp, garden hose, clippers or a spray bottle.
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine which stimuli you are most eager for your horse to become accustomed to (objects, noises, smells, etc.), and choose two or three at most for each sacking out session.

    • 2

      Crosstie your horse between two sturdy posts in a safe location, or turn him loose in a round pen. If you use crossties, make sure your ropes are in good repair.

    • 3

      Start several feet away with the first object in your hand. If it is something that makes noise, make the noise (i.e. shake the tarp, spray the spray bottle or turn on the clippers).

    • 4

      Approach the horse slowly but confidently, angling toward her shoulder. If she attempts to back up, pins her ears, rolls her eyes or in any other way shows fear or aggression, take a step back and speak in a reassuring tone. Stop any noise from the object.

    • 5

      When the horse calms down, continue your approach as before. Let your horse smell the item first, then run it along their neck and up over their ears. Frequently pause to pet and praise your horse. Any signs of fear or hostility should lead you to step back and stop any noise the object may be making.

    • 6

      Once the horse calmly accepts having the object run over their neck, ears and shoulders, move on to their back, hindquarters, legs and belly. These areas generally take longer because they are the prime areas that predators would attack in the wild. Be sure to offer lots of reassurance and praise.

    • 7

      Once you are done with your session, reward your horse with a treat and lots of attention.