(Trying to 'explain' FT/another facet)
*Excerpt from a research report by Dr. Carol Sankey, University of Rennes.
"Since horses are able to learn and memorize human words and can hear the human voice better than even dogs can, due to their particular range of hearing, the scientists predict trainers could have success if they incorporate more vocal commands into their horse training programs."
This is one reason why we use specific voice cue/requests combined with a hand gesture. Not only does this help in 'everyday interactions,' but later also later on when mounted relationship is initiated.
*All mounted activity is suspended until the relationship has been fully established.
We use three levels of 'no,' as well as three levels of 'gout' or move. I have never liked 'move' myself because it seems like too much of an ORDER or a COMMAND.
'Gout' is slang for a polite 'look out,' -- AKA excuse me or pardon me when needing to pass by someone, (such as a child standing in a doorway when you need to enter with two armfuls of groceries).
The horse also learns Come, (please come here) Back, Side, Stand, Gee-Haw, Slow, Please walk/run with me, and the 'Calm Down Cue, (not to be confused with the intermediate assurance/reassurance vocal when faced with an unknown/unique or potentially apprehensive object or situation.
The Intermediate marker, (to sustain a particular action without terminating) is Very Nice or Very Good.
And naturally, we use the rapturous, ecstatic, joyful GOOD BOY or GOOD GURRRL as the case may be.
COMPLETELY anecdotal -- but I personally have felt, and DO feel, that vocalizing a thought or intention somehow magnifies the 'thought/intention' itself. Not the sound waves themselves, but the actual 'thought' or intent itself from 'inside.' Silly huh?
The Four EssentialsI. Freedom of Choice.(Ask, don't order or force.)
II. Freedom of Movement.(No restriction of ANY type.)
III. Freedom of Expression.Encouraged to express their feelings/barring physical harm to their human teacher.)
IV. Intent and GoalIf you only came to 'train an animal,' that is all you are going to get, (barring the forgiveness and compassion of the horse).
Treats are fine. And we do use them to teach or reinforce throughout the day, (for example the Kiss).
But treats are a momentary 'endorphin release/happy thing' and cannot possibly be compared with the deep, instinctual imprint found within the grazing pattern/food loop of equine social behavior.
Someone once stated, "Well! The horse KNOWS you're not another horse!"
And that's certainly true!
But supposing you were dropped in a foreign country and could not speak or understand their language.
How would you feel if you walked for days buffeted by strangers, hearing only unintelligible gibberish until one day someone walked up to you and shook your hand with a big smile on his face and a gave you a hug?
How WOULD you feel toward that person?
Chuck & Kids
Lady, Able, Sundance, Boss & Combustion
(and Rebel & Nikki)