Always announce your arrival before you open the stable door. Never surprise a horse by approaching him without speaking to him first and holding out your hand. The horse who is otherwise of a quiet temperament may react violently, i.e. by kicking, if he is startled and alarmed. It is the horse's natural instinct to be defensive so it is important that you approach in a calm but direct manner. He should always be encouraged to come towards you. It is not necessary to offer the horse a tit-bit each time you see him. The exception to this is the young or timid animal who lacks confidence in man; in this case a bowl or bucket containing a few oats or nuts will encourage him to be handled. As soon as the animal has overcome his fear it is advisable to dispense with the bait before he comes to rely on it.

Whenever you visit the horse and find him standing by the door, insist that he stands back whilst you enter. He should also be taught to stand up and be still whilst you are in the box. When working around him in the stable, e.g. when mucking out, grooming,