Fifteen-year-old Appaloosa gelding Milo has returned to competitive dressage after losing sight in both eyes due to an eye condition.
Owner and rider Megan Share, 28, has developed a communication system that combines rein pressure, leg aids, and Milo's own tactile feedback from his hooves on the ground surface.
Share describes Milo's navigation as akin to a braille technique, where the horse interprets pressure cues and uses touch for spatial awareness in the arena and barn.
The pair, based at Debdale Riding School in Worcestershire, England, have competed together since Milo was four, winning the Royal Windsor Horse Show for eight consecutive years, including the most recent show while Milo was blind.
After Milo went completely blind at age 13, Share did not ride him for over a year before deciding he was ready to return to the show ring.
Share says riding a blind horse requires constant, precise instructions and heightened mental focus, making it more draining than riding a sighted horse.
Milo is scheduled to compete at an Appaloosa show and the Denbigh and Flint Show in August, with goals of qualifying for the Horse of the Year Show and the London International.
Share reports that Milo's hearing has become more acute since losing his sight, allowing him to react more quickly to auditory cues.
Blind Dressage Horse Wins Competitions By Using ‘Equine Braille’
This is an independent summary. The complete reporting, supporting context and any primary documents remain with Good News Network.