Mounted search and rescue

[ALLEN SNYDER <allendana1@sbcglobal.net>]

Shawnee County Sheriff's Posse near Topeka, KS has a wonderful volunteer who owns a powerglider.  He is the spouse of one of the riders/members.  Part of their extensive training/desensitization to prepare for parades and events is to have this gentleman fly his glider around us at a distance while we are safely together as a group in an outdoor arena.  He gradually grows closer until he is eventually able to almost "buzz" us.  They use a similar technique with hissing/smoking flares, loud noises like gunshots/fireworks.

The fact we are in a group and there are horses that are more brave/calm which is the cue the rest of the group gets.  If  the horse stays in place and their owner/rider is trying to keep reins and seat relaxed, the rest of the usually herd follows suit.  A few horses may shy a little, but don't want to leave their buddies in the safe group. I may quietly talk to my horse or the person next to me or hum to keep from holding my breath.  I also gently pat his neck or tell him how good he is.  Once you have mastered that, and have the confidence you can manage yourself and your mount, a drone wouldn't be nearly as big a deal. 

If, however, the drone or operator were to purposely come very close and buzz or chase us on purpose, I would defer to law enforcement to deal with the drone and its owner.  It is my understanding service animals or deputized teams have protection by law from harassment/harm.

I also think that anything in the air, over a prey animal ie hot air balloon, drone, can be frightening.  I suspect it may have to do with the instinct to fear a predator that may be above them. Dont' be too proud to dismount if you feel unsafe to regain composure.  You can always get back on once the crisis is past and all are safe.

---

From: Una Smith <una.smith@att.net>
To: Mounted search and rescue <msar-riders@lists.ibiblio.org>
Sent: Wednesday, December 16, 2015 8:34 AM
Subject: Re: [MSAR] Drone desensitizing

Jeff Knight asked:
>Has anyone devised a good process to desensitize horses to drones?

A horse that is used to having new experiences won't be spooked by a
drone any more than by a helicopter or a highschool marching band.
So I haven't planned any drone-specific training.

Anyone else?

    Una Smith
    New Mexico

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