“Part of my job — and where the joy lies — is in finding the definition of ‘safe’ in order to promote the fun. Not everyone needs the upper level horse that jumps the moon, nor does everyone need the super duper cute easy-going plodder. But some absolutely do.”
On Mythbuster Monday, we tackle a variety of equestrian myths to either bust or confirm. Today’s discussion: Do horses have a preference in water temperature?
“Stability coupled with soft, educated movements help the horse go best and understand the ask. But how do we create stable contact if we’re trying to be light?” (more…)
This week’s AI question is, “What do different horse breeds look like?” P.S. – The grade horse looks the best and the Morgan horse photo is a total glam shot.
“When we as second-career trainers and riders hop on, we are bringing heavier tack, often heavier humans and different muscle control to the canter than your average jockey… this means is that horses who are accustomed to soft flowing gallops … are met with a lot more pressure on their backs.” (more…)
On Mythbuster Monday, we tackle a variety of equestrian myths to either bust or confirm. Today’s discussion: Should hot horses be walked until they’re completely cooled down?
“Despite all they have seen at the track, big atmospheres can be challenging for baby Thoroughbreds and so many others. Besides getting them out as often as possible into similar spaces, I need a better plan next time. I need to bring normal with me as a way to create focus and the relaxation that comes with the familiar.” (more…)
“The silly thing about this metaphor is that it tends to work. It is super useful for getting folks to feel the win in the middle and be less discouraged as things don’t always continue an upward trajectory towards the end.” (more…)
Happy Labor Day, Horse Nation. Today, we’re celebrating by highlighting some Thoroughbreds with Labor Day-themed registered names. Check them out below: (more…)
“In contrast to humans, a horse’s agency is perhaps more circumscribed by the situations, hands, tack, health, and living situation they find themselves in . . . They are not going to be the same creature for every rider or at every home. Some will bring out the best in the horse, some simply won’t.” (more…)
“I think the main idea is to step out of one’s comfort zone, hop on new horses and little by little learn to quietly ride through the potentially nerve-inducing behavior… Be effective and stay safe, but also under-ride until you know what the perfect, bespoke ‘just-enough ride’ feels like on each new horse.”
On Mythbuster Monday, we tackle a variety of equestrian myths to either bust or confirm. Today’s discussion: Is it safe for horses to eat grass clippings?
“Sometimes the antidote to an unsteady head and contact is not just a softer hand, but a steadier one. There are horses … who will let you know anytime you f*-up on your contact. These horses do not just encourage you to become a better rider, they demand it.” (more…)
“All told, the only people who will stay are those who want it. Because everyone could make more money and be more comfortable working at a fast food joint.”
On Mythbuster Monday, we tackle a variety of equestrian myths to either bust or confirm. Today’s discussion: Do whorls in a horse’s hair tell about his personality and performance level?
“… when I see that a horse never started, instead of being excited that they have no damage from the track, I start to raise an eyebrow and a whole lot of questions.” (more…)
“Conformation photos are hard. But they are also so ridiculously important. Put bluntly, a good conformation photo can sell a horse… But just as easily, a poor conformation photo can cause folks to skip over your horse, your sales, and your farm.” (more…)
On Mythbuster Monday, we tackle a variety of equestrian myths to either bust or confirm. Today’s discussion: Is Sweet Vernal grass dangerous for horses to consume?
“… it is always better to catch the unsteady gait before it fails… But when the horse breaks gait and drops into the lower one, the rider has already missed their moment. At that point resistance is futile … and capitulation becomes a friend.” (more…)
On Mythbuster Monday, we tackle a variety of equestrian myths to either bust or confirm. Today’s discussion: Do the position of a horse statue’s legs tell the fate of the rider atop?
“You may have to build up to proper condition in tiny chunks and short hacks… But, riding through the heat and incrementally tackling these temperature challenges sets horse and rider up for success…” (more…)
Happy Fourth of July, Horse Nation. Today, we’re celebrating by highlighting some Thoroughbreds with Independence Day-themed registered names. Check them out below: (more…)
