🎗️ Required Material:
A band with a width of 8 cm or 10 cm.
✨ Effect & Benefits:
The head-nose band connects the poll, the sides of the mouth, and the bridge of the nose.
It can help horses that are sensitive around the mouth and supports a calmer reaction when bridling or during deworming.
It is especially useful for horses that have had negative experiences due to dental treatments or injuries.
📝 Application:
- Place one end of the band behind the poll.
- Guide the other end along the cheeks.
- Position the band over the nose. Make sure it lies in a comfortable place – either slightly higher under the eyes or lower near the mouth, depending on the horse’s sensitivity.
- Bring the band to the other side and tie both ends loosely under the cheeks.
👀 Observations:
Many horses visibly relax with the head-nose band, lower their head, and become more accepting of touch around the mouth.
It can act as a “buffer” between the sensitive mouth area and direct handling.
📌 Important Notes:
- The knot should be easy to release.
- The band must not sit too tightly, so the horse can chew and breathe freely.
- Observe your horse – some relax immediately, others need some time to adjust.
- Work in small steps and pay attention to signs of stress or discomfort.
🔀 Alternative Method for Nervous Horses:
- First, wrap the band twice around the neck and tie the ends loosely.
- Then gently guide one end over the ears and let it slide slowly along the nose.
- With this technique, the horse can be gradually accustomed to touch around the face and mouth, which can lead to greater relaxation and acceptance of bridling or veterinary treatments in the long term.
