Most people have now heard the news of five loose military horses bolting around central London earlier this week. It has raised many questions regarding the use of working horses in the military and the police force, causing a divide on social media between traditional usage and practicality in the modern era.
In this situation, the Household Cavalry stated the horses were taking part in a routine exercise when builders dropped rubble from a height right next to them, causing the normally “bombproof” horses to panic and unseat their riders.
What is a “bombproof” horse?
When equestrians refer to a horse as “bombproof”, they usually mean that the horse is exceptionally calm and unflappable in various situations, including those that might normally spook other horses.
While no horse is completely immune to all possible situations, a “bombproof” horse has been exposed to a wide range of stimuli to desensitise them to potential spooky triggers.
However, while a horse might be considered “bombproof”, it’s important to remember that they are living creatures with their own individual temperaments and reactions. Horses are prey animals by nature, and their survival instincts can kick in unexpectedly, especially in high-stress situations.
Building a strong partnership
Instead of striving for the unattainable ideal of being “bombproof”, it’s more realistic and beneficial to focus on building a strong partnership using ongoing training and positive reinforcement.
It is essential to recognise that what may be considered frightening to one horse may not bother another, all horses have different limits and fears based on their past experiences and temperament.
Building a relationship with your horse, and understanding their triggers and fears will allow you to train efficiently.
My thoughts
Overall, I think “bombproof” can be a bit of a misleading term. No horse is truly immune to all stimuli, but we can take steps in our training to prepare them to deal with potential triggers.
Accidents happen and I hope all horses and riders involved in the London incident are safe.
Pushing On Daisy 