I don't try to teach them to "desensitize" their horse. Instead, I show them how to teach the horse acceptance. When a horse accepts a situation, he remains calm and responsive. I use four concepts - respect, reward, yield and freedom of movement - to free up the horse's feet, or teach him that it's okay to move a little when scared.

Doors were held, eye contact was made and smiles were exchanged among strangers.

Riding is as much an intellectual pursuit as a physical sport.