Introducing Rhythm Beads to your horse


 

INTRODUCING RHYTHM BEADS TO YOUR HORSE

Although many horses accept rhythm beads right away, we recognize that each horse is different & wanted to share some steps for safely introducing your rhythm beads to ensure a positive experience for both you and your horse. 

Proceed calmly in incremental steps to acclimatize your horse to rhythm beads and you'll soon be riding around in them, as though he's always worn them! I’ve even  had customers tell me their horse actually lowers their head in anticipation of the beads!

You know your horse… if your horse looks unsure of the rhythm beads, follow some of these desensitization exercises on the ground, in an open area like a round pen before putting on the rhythm beads.

Be sensible....Introduce as you would any new piece of tack. Proceed calmly in incremental steps to acclimatize your horse to rhythm beads and you'll soon be riding around in them, as though he's always worn them! I’ve even had a few customers tell me their horse actually lowers their head in anticipation of the beads!

  1. First, hold your Rhythm Beads in your hand, muffling the bells and let your horse explore and sniff the beads. When your horse relaxes, take the beads away.
  1. Next, hold the beads against their neck, side, or back (whichever they are most comfortable with). Repeat again on different area of your horse until they stand still and relaxed. When your horse is completely comfortable, lightly massage them again with the rhythm beads and let the bells jingle a little.

The key is to start off slowly, allowing the horse to succeed at every step of the introduction.

  1. Once your horse has relaxed and settled well to the sound put the rhythm beads over your horse’s head as you would a bridle and reins, attaching the clip to the mane so the rhythm beads stay secure. With the beads on your horse, lead him around at a walk, then spend some time playing in the arena with some free lunging.

*For safely, I strongly recommend that you lead and free lunge at a walk and trot with the Rhythm Beads before riding out!

  1. If your horse is completely relaxed on the lunge proceed to tacking up and ride in an enclosed area before going out for a ride

If you would like to share your own tips on this subject, please send me an email at rhythmnbeads@gmail.com