On the popular television show “The Dog Whisperer” we see a man who has a remarkable ability to communicate with dogs, and train them as well. The book “The Man Who Listens to Horses” relays a similar story about a man who is able to do the same thing with horses. This book was written by Monty Roberts, and it takes the reader on a journey into the internal workings of a horse’s mind. In this article I offer up my opinion of the book, and will hit upon what I think are some of the highlights other readers will enjoy reading about.
Monty Roberts has a story to tell; not only of himself, but of the horses he loves so much. Monty grew up in an abusive household, and his father was abusive not only to him, but to his horses as well. As Monty grew older he started to formulate a different viewpoint. There must be a better way to communicate with the horses that he loves so much, and he was determined to find out what it was.
The “join-up” technique is the author’s technique to break and train horses. The book goes into great detail on the process, but here it is in a nutshell. You need a round pen and an unbroken horse to start. The handler will stand in the middle of the pen in a very authoritative and imposing way, while the horse is encouraged to run around the pen in attempts to get away. During the process the handler will be looking for signs that the horse wishes to communicate with him. These three signs are:
The horse will gradually turn the ear that is closest to the handler towards him/her.
The horse will begin a process of chewing and licking.
As the horse runs around the pen he will move his head closer to the ground.
When the handler is assured that the horse wishes to communicate, he/she will turn his back and start to gradually move away. The horse will then come closer to the handler, and permit the handler to touch him. Now that contact has been established, the saddling, bridling, mounting, and riding process can begin.
In addition to the “join-up” technique, the book takes us on a journey of Robert’s life as well. We learn of the various stages of his life, how he developed his horse techniques, and what has made him into the man that he is today. Some of the highlights in the book are:
-The author’s successful childhood riding career
-The author’s encounters with his father
-The development of the author’s Thoroughbred racehorse facility
-The time he met Queen Elizabeth II of England
-How the “join-up” technique was used on wild deer
-Mustang horses and the author’s experiences with them
-Three of his favorite horses: Dually, Brownie, and Johnny Tivio
Anyone who loves horses and is looking for a humane way to communicate with them and train them should check out this book. Read it over and let the information wrap around your mind.
If you have read this far you obviously love horses. We do as well. We invite you to visit our web site on Horse Jewelry. You might find the perfect gift for that fellow Horse Lover.
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