Mary Allen
Introduction: Defining the Near Side of a Horse
The near side of a horse refers to the left side of the animal when viewed from the front. This term is commonly used in the equestrian world, and it is essential for riders, handlers, and caretakers to understand the near side’s anatomical features and behaviors. Knowing the near side of a horse is crucial for safe and effective horsemanship, as well as for building a trusting relationship with the animal.
Anatomy of the Horse: Understanding the Near Side
To understand the near side of a horse, it is necessary to have a basic knowledge of the animal’s anatomy. The horse’s body is divided into two halves: the left side and the right side. The near side is the left side of the horse, which includes the left ear, left eye, left nostril, left foreleg, left hind leg, and left flank. The near side is also where the horse’s heart is located, making it an essential area to protect during handling and riding.
Differentiating the Near Side from the Off Side
The opposite of the near side is the off side, which refers to the horse’s right side. Distinguishing between the two sides is crucial in horsemanship, as it helps handlers and riders communicate effectively with the horse. For example, when leading a horse, it is customary to walk on the near side, holding the lead rope in the left hand, while using the right hand to guide the horse’s head. When mounting a horse, it is customary to stand on the left side of the horse and swing the right leg over the horse’s back.
Historical Significance of the Near Side
The near side of a horse has historical significance, dating back to the days when horses were used in warfare. In battle, a rider would mount and dismount from the near side, as it offered protection from the enemy’s sword on the rider’s left side. Additionally, horses were often trained to be mounted from the near side, as it was easier for the rider to draw their sword with their right hand while mounted.
Importance of Knowing the Near Side in Horsemanship
Knowing the near side of a horse is essential for safe and effective horsemanship. It allows handlers and riders to communicate with the horse effectively, understand the animal’s behaviors, and build a trusting relationship. Additionally, understanding the near side’s anatomical features can prevent injury to both the horse and the handler, especially when handling or riding in close proximity to the animal’s left side.
The Near Side as a Safety Measure
The near side of a horse can also be used as a safety measure. When leading a horse, standing on the near side allows the handler to keep the animal’s head close to their body, which can prevent the horse from bolting or spooking. Additionally, when grooming or tacking up a horse, standing on the near side can prevent the horse from kicking out with their hind legs, as the animal is less likely to kick towards their handler’s body.
Common Near Side Behaviors of Horses
Horses exhibit several behaviors on the near side, which can help handlers and riders understand the animal’s mood and temperament. For example, horses often nuzzle or rest their head on their handler’s shoulder on the near side, a sign of trust and affection. Additionally, horses may twitch their skin or swish their tail on the near side, indicating discomfort or irritation.
Near Side Grooming Techniques
Grooming a horse on the near side requires specific techniques to ensure the animal’s safety and comfort. Handlers should approach the horse slowly and calmly and start grooming in a relaxed area, such as the horse’s neck or shoulder. When brushing the horse’s body, handlers should stand close to the animal’s side, using short, gentle strokes to avoid startling the horse.
Saddling and Mounting from the Near Side
Saddling and mounting a horse from the near side requires specific steps to ensure the animal’s safety and comfort. Handlers should approach the horse slowly and calmly, standing on the left side of the animal. When saddling, handlers should lift the saddle onto the horse’s back from the near side, making sure the girth is tight but not too tight. When mounting, handlers should place their left foot in the stirrup, swing their right leg over the horse’s back, and settle into the saddle gently.
Near Side Riding Considerations
When riding a horse on the near side, riders should consider the animal’s balance and comfort. For example, riders should avoid leaning too much to the left, as it can shift the horse’s balance and cause discomfort. Additionally, riders should be aware of the horse’s breathing and heart rate, as the animal’s heart is located on the near side.
Near Side and Equine Therapy
The near side of a horse is also essential in equine therapy, a form of therapy that uses horses to help individuals with physical or mental disabilities. In equine therapy, handlers and riders work on the near side of the horse, using specific techniques to build trust, confidence, and communication skills.
Conclusion: Appreciating the Near Side of the Horse
In conclusion, the near side of a horse is an essential anatomical feature that plays a significant role in horsemanship, history, and equine therapy. Understanding the near side’s anatomical features, behaviors, and cultural significance can enhance the handler’s and rider’s communication skills, build a trusting relationship with the horse, and prevent injury to both the animal and the handler. By appreciating the near side of the horse, handlers and riders can develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of these magnificent animals.