Horse owners everywhere are having a huge sigh after a cold, snowy winter. The grass is growing, the sun is shining and the nights are slowly becoming lighter which can only mean one thing, summer is on its way!

 For the unlucky few however, it means it’s that time of year again where the horses are drunk on spring grass and it’s time for a good old game of ‘catch me if you can’. Although, unlike the game you played as a school child, playing with your noble steed is certainly nobody’s idea of fun.

Being the kind people we are here at Equestrian Lincs, we have put together some tips to help you catch your equine friend.

 If you are catching your horse or pony, you are taking their freedom again after months of being cooped up in a stable. It is therefore essential to make sure he associates being caught with something he likes, for example praising him or giving him a treat. If every time you catch him he has to work, then you’re fighting a loosing battle.

 If you know your horse isn’t going to catch, enter the field quietly in a non-threatening manner. Stop for a few minuets or even stand with your back to them and take small steps backwards, creating your horses’ interest in you. 

If your pony runs from you straight away, there is no point chasing him, you will never win. Taking a bucket off food into the field should entice the horse to come to you – a little bribery never hurt anybody. Be sure not to use food every time though or you may be left with a horse that will only catch with food.

 This failing, leave the horse in the field until it is begging to come in may teach it a lesson or two!