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You should not argue or negotiate with a mare – you must ask for permission! And that is exactly what we will discuss now. Surely, you know a determined, stubborn, and perhaps slightly contentious mare? Maybe you even own one yourself? Let's take a closer look at some of the statements and thoughts you, as a mare owner, are undoubtedly familiar with.
At the same time, you find it a bit annoying – but also somewhat cool – when people generalize all mares and think, “all mares are stubborn.” Because your mare is not like “all the others,” right? Okay, maybe she can be a bit bossy, but you know how to handle her quirks, so it's no problem!
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You know that the very best way to handle your quirky – and beloved – mare is to make her think that everything you ask her to do is her own idea! Just stroke her in the right direction, and you will remain best friends forever.
Yes, sometimes you wonder if your mare is actually smarter than you… She is definitely more cunning than you! For example, do you know that situation where the horse just does not want to come in from the field, and you certainly should not think that you can decide anything? Then you are definitely a mare owner.
You have heard the phrase: "You really have a lot of patience" – typically said when your mare, once again, does not agree with the task presented. But we all know well that it will succeed at some point… at some point… in some time.
To make you aware that what you are doing is a bit too hard, boring, or otherwise inappropriate for your mare to put up with, she often gives a loooong sigh. We call it the “Oh My God” sigh. And now, when you think about it, it does actually happen quite often, doesn't it? We mare owners here at the editorial office know it all too well! The only thing we as owners can do is to take a deep breath and roll our eyes a bit at it. Because, honestly, it is also a bit funny!
Do you know that slightly puzzled look followed by the sentence: “So you say you bought a chestnut mare?”. Actually, you just want to shout back “Yes, I bought a MARE and she is CHESTNUT!” and then just add that she is the sweetest in the world – so far at least.
Taking a ride through the forest on the back of your beloved mare is always a bit like gambling. You can take home one of two things: A wonderful experience, where your mare has just been the most loyal and sweetest friend! – or a broken arm. We all know well that it depends on your mare’s mood – and that tree definitely was not in the same place the last time you passed by! Too bad for your arm.
Read also: 8 Training tips from Carl Hester – should be on the backbone of every dressage rider
Can you think of more funny statements about your beautiful mare, which despite the funny quirks, make every day in the stable different? We would love to hear them. And remember: Mares are of course some of the loveliest in the world, no matter what!
