The Horse is smart. He knows where his life has routine, and where he needs to look for my cues. This means that although I guide him through most tasks, I often find it is completely unnecessary.
One day we arrive back from a hack with a friend and go into the usual routine.
“Stop here, Horse.”
“Stopped.”
“Stay, Horse, I need to do your girth and stirrups.”
“Staying.”
Then my friend asked for some help, and without a thought (because I trust The Horse) I walked right over to help.
“Are we done? Do I have to stay?”
I ignored The Horse. I was busy. And I really can’t multitask.
“Fine, I’m going to my room.”
“Right, see you there.”
I was aware of the sound of The Horse wandering through the barn and knew he was heading in the right direction.
Then came many exclamations “OMG, is The Horse meant to be on his own?!”
“What is The Horse doing?”
“Has he escaped?!”
The Horse was unaffected “Hey everyone, coming through.”
Hearing the kerfuffle, I quickly wrapped up my conversation to follow The Horse and offer my support.
“It’s OK, he’s going to his room!”
“Are you sure?!”
“Yup.” Said both The Horse and I “Just watch.” And with that The Horse strutted right to the end of the barn and into his stable where he proceeded to eat his hay.
After several other distractions I followed him.
“You come to take my tack off now?”
“Yes.”
“My bit is in the way.”
“I know, let me get rid of it for you.”
I’m so glad I have a smart horse. Maybe I should teach him to take himself out to the field next…?