Horses are more accustomed to seeing horses riding on hard surfaces, although the water element also attracts these animals. Do horses know how to swim? Yes, it's in them from birth. Horses, like dogs and many other animals, are able to swim even without learning to swim. That is, if the horse goes down to the depths, it will instinctively go over its legs as if it is underwater.
Horses swim pretty well. Some people go into the water immediately and with pleasure, so you don't even have to make an effort to lure them there. Some may resist for a while, and only after a long time of preparation will the water procedures be evaluated in an open water reservoir. And someone is afraid of the big water at all. Not all of them have the desire to swim. This is purely individual and depends only on the nature of the horse. Especially those who are afraid can be gradually accustomed to swimming if they wish, luring them into the water with a delicacy or showing them a vivid example in the form of a well-floating congenital. However, despite all the benefits and pleasures, the horse's body is not designed for a long stay in the water, so do not test the horse's strength and let go, for example, to the rivers with a strong current or whirlpool
Swimming with a horse is an unforgettable pleasure! These strong and large animals mostly love water and swim in it with pleasure. However, you should be careful, because the large size of the beast can play with you and a cruel joke. In this element, he does not feel so well, and may accidentally catch him with his legs. And this is fraught with trauma.
Do you need to teach them to swim?
Not really.
Horses know how to swim from birth, as it is embedded in them at the level of instincts.
However, for the first time, horses enter the water cautiously, as well as a person who for the first time descends to the depths. At this moment it is not possible to force the pet in any case, as strong fright is possible, and then you will not entice him to swim.
Horses also know how to swim at different distances and at different speeds, but it should be remembered that this is not their own element, and to overload them with swimming - should not.
Horses swim as well as dogs. In other words, when they swim, their movements resemble a lynx, where their legs move alternately as if walking in an unfamiliar element.
How to swim with a horse?
In fact, you can't swim on horseback sitting in the saddle. This is due to the fact that the legs lose their support at the depth of their legs, and the weight of the rider makes it very difficult to move.
So as soon as the rider feels that his comrade has lost the bottom and started to swim, he should immediately get off the saddle and start to swim next to him, holding on to the mane or neck.
When planning a swim together with your pet, it is important to make sure they are not afraid of water. Panic can lead to serious consequences, such as injuries. When going to a lake or water body with a horse, the breeder should be sure that the place chosen for bathing is ideal in every respect.
According to what criteria this is defined:
- Absence of a strong current;
- A flat sandy bottom;
- a gentle shore;
- shallow depth.
This can be controlled by means of leashes, guiding you in the right direction. You can also voice commands if your friend is trained to do so. Be careful! Your friend may inadvertently hurt you with his or her foot, so watch your body carefully and try not to put your legs under your pet's belly.
What if your pet is afraid?
Like humans, these animals also have water addiction.
This is especially true for pets who see large amounts of natural liquid for the first time.
The main thing here is personal example and patience.
Walk with your faithful comrade in shallow water, leading him by the bridle. Let him get used to the fact that there is nothing wrong with it, and in the heat - very refreshing. In addition, your peace of mind at the entrance to someone else's element will inspire additional confidence.
Gradually go deeper and deeper, encouraging the animal with a quiet, calm voice. You can encourage your pet with a treat. When your friend loses his support in the depths, he may panic for the first time. You should soothe him with a gentle stroking and kind words, swimming next to him. If the panic is too strong, get grounded immediately.
You should not force him to swim, because this process is beginning to be perceived as a punishment, and that can lead to a categorical rejection of subsequent baths. It will float itself. This is inherent in her nature, and at the depth of the animal starts to "run" lynx, thereby moving forward.
If you have a good contact with your loyal friend, you can not pull him into the depths, and go there yourself and call for yourself. A faithful friend will follow you and instinctively swim.
The herd instinct also helps. It is enough to let an experienced horse - a "swimmer" forward - and all the other members of the herd will not hesitate to follow him.