Sure, horses have a language of their own, and alas several of us aren’t as tuned in to it as we should always be.  It’s a huge mistake to not know their language, as it could signify problems for us in the long run.  Every swivel of the ear(s), hip movement, tail flick and face expression signifies something.  This is certainly the language horses use to communicate to other horses, also to us – if only we would pay attention. 

We need to know very well what OUR body language says to them first before we are able to comprehend them.  Swinging arms whilst attempting to get the halter on will trigger apprehension. Running at them inside of a paddock rather than walking up to them coolly can make them assume -  danger chasing me. We’ve all heard about bombproof horses – sorry, there isn’t any such thing.  Something, some time will frighten your horse, or any horse for that matter.
For the time being, keep your body language subtle, leisurely, uncomplicated and calm.  When you are calm, this makes your horse remain calm.  

Horses communicate to us with all body parts and that includes the front and back end.  Both ends could cause us unthinkable grief if we do not take note of what they’re saying.  For example, most of us know that every time a horse has both ears pinned back flat something is basically amiss.  Chances are they are either wary or angry.  In most cases it is anger.  So look after the front and back especially carefully.  Caution is best even when you think that the horse could be being attentive to something behind them or bored.  When you really know your horse well, you might be aware what the ears are saying. 

Ears perked up and forward denote they’re focusing their thought on something and are either up to some mischief or they really are on high alert about something they notice, hear or smell.  Remind your horse you would like his attention, especially if you are riding and the ears fold to the fore.

Combing and caring to your horse is THE main bonding experience connecting people and equines.  Don’t ever underestimate how strongly you’re talking to your horse about YOU while you comb it.

If you’re searching for horses for sale or ponies for sale you should pay a visit to The Horse and Pony Directory.

Surviving the credit crunch is never easy, but when you have ponies and horses who rely on you for nurishment, shelter and medical attention, every small amount saved helps.

It’s tremendously sad that too many horses and ponies are abandoned every week, as owners struggle to cope with the economy as it is, because of this there are presently many horses for sale.

Sara Tuppen founder of the Horse Refuge in Wittersham Kent, knows all about looking after horses when money is scarce, and relies solely on donations to keep more than 40 rescued horses in good health. She believes there are a few points which could help make keeping a horses on a budget a little easier:

1. Many horses can live quite happily outside for the majority of the year, providing there’s nurishment, water and shelter available. Providing this is a suitable option for your horse, it could reduce your stabling prices by a large amount.

2. Removing shoes is an easy way to reduce outlay. If not ridden regularly, and not ridden on rough surfaces, many horses will not need shoes.

3. Sharing your horse is a great way to severely reduce costs, and helps to provide a cheaper introduction to horse riding for another person.

4. In many cases you can get free stabling and perhaps even hay and straw in return for chores. Helping to muck out, grooming, yard and paddock maintenance etc. are all ways which could save you money for a little work!

5. Vets bills are an unknown quantity but still have to be allowed for. If money’s a little tight, you may sometimes discover a lot of Vets will allow you to spread the cost.

6. Most of us can also make lifestyle adaptations! It’s not just finding ways to keep your horse more cheaply, you can do it too!

7. If achievable, horse owners can often join forces to buy feed and straw in bigger numbers, reducing the overall price and passing on savings to all.

8. Finally, you can look into placing your horse in a foster home, even as a family friend.

If you’re in a position to share, or even buy a horse or pony, there are still many horses for sale and ponies for sale available.