The Remarkable Success of The Mustang Summit in Aiken: Training Wild Horses to Trust Humans

The
Mustang Summit
in
Aiken
brought together a group of individuals passionate about feral horses and their care. Participants engaged in a series of training sessions aimed at building trust and understanding between humans and these wild animals.
The event, held at the Equine Rescue of Aiken, showcased the remarkable progress made by a chestnut yearling filly from Nevada. Under the guidance of experts like Sky Epperson and Annamaria Sims, the filly underwent a transformative learning experience.
Sky Epperson, the founder of the
Mustang Adoption Academy
in Indiana, emphasized the importance of patience and gentle approaches in the training process. Epperson's focus on the horse's emotional well-being complements Sims' expertise as a certified equine massage therapist. Together, they employed a methodical approach that allowed the filly to 'down regulate' herself and become more at ease in human presence.
The key to success, as Epperson explained, lies in creating a safe and relaxed environment for the horse to learn. By observing subtle signs of relaxation, such as the 'lick and chew' response, trainers can gauge the animal's comfort levels and adjust their methods accordingly.
The Mustang Summit was a highlight of the four-day EQUUS Film & Arts Fest, celebrating the resilience and intelligence of mustangs, free-roaming horses native to the western United States. Epperson praised the mustangs for their hardiness and intelligence, noting that they present unique challenges and rewards for those working with them.
The event not only showcased the skill and dedication of individuals like Epperson and Sims but also highlighted the potential for mutual understanding and cooperation between humans and these majestic animals. The success of the training sessions underscores the importance of patience, empathy, and respect in building relationships with wild horses, paving the way for a harmonious coexistence between humans and mustangs.