“No Thanks” Means No — Rethinking Touch with Our Horses

We all love our VTRA horses — their strength, their gentleness, their unique personalities — and it’s natural to want to show our affection. But here’s the thing: just like us, horses have boundaries. Inspired by Craig Foster’s book: Amphibious Soul, a powerful line stands out: “As a rule, I never touch an animal unless they touch me first.” At VTRA, our horses aren’t pets — they’re working partners, and in many ways, they’re like service animals. Touching them just because we want to can be overwhelming and, at times, even stressful for them. Horses communicate with their bodies first, and when they offer a gentle nudge with their muzzle, it’s their way of saying “hello.” But too often, we respond by rubbing between their eyes or patting their heads — what the article calls inappropriate touching. Check out the full article for deeper insights and examples: