Spring Riding

We are enjoying an earlier spring that we have had in several years. It certainly has been a great opportunity to get your horse acclimatized to wind. We certainly have had wind to contend with. This is a great time of the year to work on DE spooking techniques, using tarps, pool noodles, stick and string and bag on a stick.

Remember to always build your horses confidence on the ground before riding. Basic ground work is essential to get both sides of your horse’s brain working and mind on what you want your horse to do. Get your horse comfortable with your lead rope around the legs, over the back, around the girth. Bring out the training tarp you packed away for the winter. Encourage your horse to step over it. Gently get the horse used to feel of the tarp on his back and eventually over the head. Replace your tattered Canadian flag on your flag post close to the corral or pasture with a new one. Not only are you showing your patriotic pride, the sound and sight of a flag flapping in the wind is an every day experience.

While in the saddle, work on desensitizing your horse by simulating potentially scary sounds and sensations. Try slapping your leg, cracking a water bottle, putting on an off your jacket or rain coat, twirl a rope or flag over your horses head, break twigs or branches off as you ride by a tree. Remember to start low intensity and build from there. There are many things you can simulate and introduce your horse to in a safe environment before going out on the trail. Haven’t trailered your horse since last fall, why wait till you absolutely need to load to find out your horse could use a refresher.

Work with your equine partner for an enjoyable and safe season of riding.