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Horses and ponies have long been revered for their beauty, grace, and strength. Traditionally, humans have used these magnificent creatures as mounts for various purposes, from transportation to sports and leisure activities. However, there is a growing movement that emphasizes the value of non-ridden equines as wonderful companions and therapy animals. In this blog post, we explore the reasons why adopting a non-ridden companion horse or pony can be a fulfilling and enriching experience, both for the animal and the human.
The Joy of Connection
When adopting a non-ridden equine, you open the door to a new level of connection. Freed from the constraints of saddles and reins, you can form an authentic bond with your horse or pony based on trust and understanding. These animals are sentient beings capable of forming deep emotional connections with humans. By spending time together without the pressure of riding, you have the opportunity to truly get to know your equine friend's unique personality and preferences.
Honouring the Well-Being of the Horse
Every horse or pony has its own personality and physical attributes. Just like humans, not all equines are suitable for riding. By adopting a non-ridden companion horse or pony, we respect their individual needs and well-being. Some equines may have physical limitations, past injuries, or temperament issues that make riding a stressful experience for them. Choosing a non-ridden role allows them to live a content and fulfilling life without the added burden of carrying a rider.
Physical Benefits
Adopting a non-ridden equine can also be beneficial for the horse's physical health. Riding, especially with heavy loads or for prolonged periods, can put stress on their backs, joints, and hooves, potentially leading to long-term health issues. By opting for a non-ridden companion, you help reduce the risk of these problems, allowing your equine friend to enjoy a more comfortable and pain-free life.
Mental and Emotional Therapy
The therapeutic benefits of spending time with horses are well-documented. Interacting with these gentle beings has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression in humans. However, this therapeutic relationship goes both ways. Horses are highly attuned to human emotions and can provide profound emotional support. Building a strong bond with a non-ridden companion horse or pony can be a source of comfort, confidence, and healing for individuals of all ages.
Building a Deeper Bond
When we adopt a non-ridden equine, our relationship transcends the rider-horse dynamic. Without the focus on performance or competition, we can invest more time and energy in building a strong emotional bond. Non-ridden horses or ponies often become more affectionate, trusting, and willing to connect with their caregivers. These relationships are built on mutual trust, understanding, and companionship, which leads to a profoundly rewarding experience.
Strengthening the Equestrian Community
Adopting a non-ridden equine doesn't mean you have to step away from the equestrian community. On the contrary, it can open up opportunities for networking with like-minded individuals who share your passion for horses and their well-being. By advocating for non-ridden relationships, you contribute to a more diverse and inclusive equestrian world, promoting understanding and appreciation for these animals beyond their traditional roles.
Embracing Versatility
Non-ridden equines can still be engaged in various activities, catering to their natural instincts and abilities. Groundwork, liberty training, and natural horsemanship offer excellent opportunities to engage with these majestic animals. Through these activities, we can witness their intelligence, problem-solving skills, and playful nature. Additionally, non-ridden equines can participate in equine-assisted therapy programs, where they help individuals overcome emotional and psychological challenges.
Redefining Horsemanship
The concept of horsemanship should go beyond just riding. Adopting a non-ridden companion horse or pony challenges us to explore alternative ways of interacting with these magnificent creatures. We learn to listen and understand their needs, communicate non-verbally, and embrace a deeper connection. This new perspective enriches our horsemanship skills and teaches us to be more empathetic and compassionate caregivers.
Rescuing and Rehabilitating
By adopting a non-ridden equine, you open up a space for a horse or pony that may have had a challenging past. Many non-ridden companions are rescues or retired horses that need a loving home and a chance at a new life. By giving them a safe and caring environment, you become a part of their journey towards healing and recovery.
Providing a Safe Haven for Retired Horses
Many older horses or ponies face uncertain futures once they retire from riding or other activities. By adopting a non-ridden companion equine, we offer them a safe and loving forever home, ensuring they enjoy their golden years in comfort and care. These retirees still have much to offer in terms of wisdom and companionship, and we, in turn, receive the gift of their presence in our lives.
Contributing to Equine Welfare
By adopting a non-ridden companion horse or pony, we help reduce the demand for "disposable" horses when they are no longer rideable. We contribute to equine welfare by demonstrating that these incredible creatures have value beyond their athletic abilities. Our choice to adopt non-ridden equines helps raise awareness about responsible and compassionate horse ownership.
Embracing non-ridden equines as companion horses or ponies is a beautiful way to deepen your connection with these magnificent creatures. By understanding and respecting their natural instincts, providing physical and emotional therapy, and offering a second chance to rescues, you can create a rewarding and enriching partnership. Choosing a non-ridden equine allows you to explore the true essence of the horse-human relationship, one based on mutual trust, respect, and unconditional love. So, consider adopting a non-ridden companion horse or pony and experience the profound joy and fulfilment it can bring to your life.
Please consider adopting a non ridden companion. Check out our adoption page here - and if you don't see someone who suits fill in an application form or send us an email and we can see if we have someone who would suit your needs.
If you can support our non ridden and retired horses at the sanctuary please make a donation today; for many they've had a long life providing ridden activities for people only to be forgotten once they've gotten too old to be ridden. Please help us to give them the life they deserve!