In a lesson, if a horse seems anxious, what is the priority for the instructor?

When a horse appears anxious during a lesson, the priority for the instructor is to assess the horse's behavior and adjust the lesson as needed. This approach ensures the well-being of both the horse and the participants in the session. An anxious horse can exhibit various signs of stress, which may include restlessness, increased heart rate, or other behaviors indicating discomfort or fear.

By taking the time to evaluate the situation, the instructor can identify the specific cause of the anxiety, whether it’s due to the environment, the activities being conducted, or even the reactions of the participants. Adjusting the lesson based on this assessment can involve calming techniques, allowing the horse to acclimate to the environment, changing activities to suit the horse's comfort level, or even taking a break. This responsive and thoughtful action helps to ensure both safety and a positive experience for everyone involved.

In contrast, continuing with the lesson to build confidence might overlook the horse's immediate needs and could potentially exacerbate its anxiety. Ignoring the anxiety completely disregards the welfare of the horse and could lead to dangerous situations. Switching horses immediately may not always be feasible or necessary; it is more effective to understand the reason behind the anxiety before making such a decision. Thus, assessing the horse's