You have the right to decide what activities go on at your barn. If a client or employee makes you uncomfortable with his treatment of people or horses, you can ask him to leave. It’s that simple.
Aggressive horsemen are not unique, and you are bound to get one at your barn sooner or later. Maybe he uses those wicked-looking spurs that could puncture the hide of a rhinoceros, or perhaps he feels that kicking his horse is appropriate punishment for stepping out of line. Whatever the case, we all draw the line at “too aggressive” differently, and it’s up to you to decide what flies.
But before you kick an aggressive horseman out of your barn:
Watch Your Words: You might think an aggressive horseman is abusive, but try not to sling that word around. You might want to substitute “inappropriate” for “abusive” to keep the situation from escalating.
Make the Horse the Priority: If an aggressive horseman has put a horse in jeopardy, attend to the animal first. The horse is the most important thing.
Police Are Your Friends: Call the police if an aggressive horseman has made threats toward you, other people, or any animals on your farm. It will keep you out of both trouble and danger.
Terminate the Business Relationship: The best thing you can do with an aggressive horseman is to terminate your business relationship. Tell him that he is no longer welcome on your property, and you’ll have solved the problem. If necessary, report his behavior to the appropriate authorities.
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About the Author: Laura Jane Thompson is the Chief Equestrian Officer of Riding Instructor University and the Feature writer for the horses section at Suite101. She believes that any horse business can succeed provided its owner practices smart strategy.
