When you get a new horse, be sure to discover all the things about his background that can help you communicate well with him/her and avoid confusion or injury. If a horse has never seen cross-ties; you certainly do not want to tie him in them without a patient introduction! If you get a horse from the race track; the grooms probably cleaned all four hooves from the near side and he might not understand at first when you ask from the off side. The way to avoid surprises (for both of you - horses do not usually like surprises) is to ask the previous owner or caretaker for this information. When you train a horse, it is a good idea to instill some habits and schooling that are considered "standard" or normal. When and if another horse person handles him, they will not get upset with him for acting in a non-traditional way (say, stopping when you use the legs and going when you pull the reins!). This ensures that his life will be decent in the hands of another competent horseman, which is an obligation we have as trainers. And always tell a new person what the horse knows, expects and does not know! Individualism need not be sacrificed to accomplish these things; just build your horse's uniqueness from a foundation that makes common sense. And, I am personally talking about a 5,000 year old system/tradition that has served as a compassionate, connected methodology that serves the horse as much as it serves the human.
