Horses aren’t symmetrical but soundness for the work we request of them depends on us trying to develop the horse as equally as possible.

Stay humble. Stay kind. Be realistic. Appreciate this amazing opportunity.

I had an incredible opportunity to teach a three day camp in Michigan a few weeks ago. Rach Riding Academy organized a very educational three day event for the campers. Here is part one of my teaching takeaways.

Have compassion. Have confidence. Have a positive mental attitude. Leave the negativity out of the saddle.

Be the change you want to see in your horse. Be confident. Be relaxed. Don’t be distracted.

Keep the 3 to 5 rule in mind

Body work is not optional. That’s true for you and your horse.

If the pain is not addressed the horse will continue to be “snappy” and have poor communication much like a human with an incessant headache

Horses that are tense are suffering. It is our job to change what we are asking to relieve the tension.

Enlist professionals to help you find the source of the reactiveness. Your horse will thank you.

Communicate your intentions with your horse. Don’t surprise them

Your hands are a team. They should work to stabilize the base of the neck and massage the reins.

DQ is not the end of the world. Don’t Quit. It is an opportunity for education.

Our next Zoom will be Thursday, September 9, 7p cst.

The horse must be allowed to have an opinion and input regarding the work you are requesting. You don’t have to accept their opinion. But they can’t feel threatened every time they question your request.

Havre a conversation with the horse through your legs. The conversation needs to be in complete sentences not caveman point and grunt.

I hear this a lot in regards to glue on shoes. I hear it as a justification to keep putting metal nails in the horse’s feet. I hear it as a justification from farriers who don’t want to continue their education.

Encourage correct function of the hoof to increase caudal foot support by getting him to use the back

The horse DOES NOT have to face or address what they are scared of. PERIOD.

A correct warm up does a lot to set the tone for the rest of the ride.