"I don't wanna and you can't make me!" Has your horse ever said this to you? I know mine have! They stop, go sideways, back-up, even run away. It's called Avoidance Behavior... Avoidance behavior is anything a horse does instead of what they are supposed to be doing. Let's say you are taking your horse "Duke" to the wash rack for a quick hose down. Once you have … [Read more...] about I Don’t Wanna and You Can’t Make Me!
Riding Goals
Ride the Horse and Ride the Exercise
There is an ancient story of a rich and powerful King who gathered all the wisest men in his kingdom and asked them to take on a quest. The King asked them to search the world for something that was true... always and forever TRUE. The King wanted to know that there was at least one thing he could always count on, so he would always feel secure. The … [Read more...] about Ride the Horse and Ride the Exercise
Are you ready to canter?
As my students progress through our lesson program they always want to know when they can canter or lope. At the first interview, they usually ask when they get to run or gallop, which shows their lack of experience. As their instructor I have to give them an answer. When is a student ready to canter or lope? What skill set do they need to possess in order to safely … [Read more...] about Are you ready to canter?
Summer Vacation Tips
It's that time of year again. Those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer! By now I'm sure you have all your vacation plans in order but have you forgotten anything? Or anyone? How about your horse? I know, he doesn't get to go along, but who will be taking care of him? A few years ago, I was going out of town for work and vacations. All together I was going to be gone for about 3 … [Read more...] about Summer Vacation Tips
Dream a Lofty Dream
"Dream lofty dreams, and as you dream, so shall you become. Your vision is the promise of what you shall at last unveil." - John Ruskin Many years ago I had a client who was looking for a new horse for her daughter, Caren. Caren had been riding the family horse for a few years. She had gone from a complete beginner to an accomplished show rider. It was time for her … [Read more...] about Dream a Lofty Dream