The "What Is That" Reflex is also known as the orienting reflex/response or investigatory reflex is a REFLEX that is triggered by the appearance of something novel or potentially threatening in the environment.
We all know what this feels like when a horse is triggered....it grows to 18h, freezes on the spot, becomes hyper-focused and you can feel their heart beating through the saddle!!!
Many people punish a horse when they are triggered into this reflex and this can backfire massively as it can cause the horse to become scared of getting scared and end up being horses that are chronically spooky and will characteristically spook and spin.
In this video I explain the reflex, show it in action and how to handle it when you are in the saddle.
Check out my website for information on my approach to training horses that uses key insights into horse behaviour and training to teach them to be calm, willing and confident - calmwillingconfidenthorses.com.au
