Sunday, August 2, 2009

I have 3 shy horses I want to approach, anyone know how?

2 mares and one gelding they are about 4 yrs old, the owner dropped them off to pasture with us said that they had worked them over the winter and they were all halter and harness broke. They've been here for over a week and I still can't get anywhere near them. I go out quietly with some apple or carrot pieces and talk softly, but they look at me and think I am the devil or something.
Does anyone have any suggestions on how to get them to stop running?
Answers:
you must gain the total trust of these horses before they will begin to let you really get close to them and let you work with them. the first step is to become the "alpha horse" by doing this you will be one of the herd and there for someone that can be trusted. when you are in the pen with them (Preferably with only one at a time) you will just make you self known. you can take a book and sit and read or you can sit and talk to them. when they become curious and start to come close to you, you can just sit or stand up (very slowly) if you chose to stand keep your hands down and pressed ageneses your sides also keep your head down and avoid eye contact, and don't try to move closer to them. let the horses come to you and when they do reward them for it with lots of verbal praise and a treat. soon when you come out the horses will come toward you when they do you need to teach them to have good manners and wait for you to come into their space not them come into your space. finally when you have the trust of at least one of the horses you can take out a little alfalfa, (enough for all three) and go to the one that will let you come up and touch it. then feed it some alfalfa and rub its neck. the other horses will see that that horse is getting attention that they would like to have. when they come feed them some alfalfa and rub their necks too. soon you will have made lasting friendships with all three horses and they will be eager to come and be with you. Good Luck and have fun building relationships that will last
You have to work with horses. If they are skiddish, then you need to slowly try to build their trust.
Try some grain in a can and shake it a little. Do not make fast moves, maybe even crouch down a litte.
Try to get up wind so they can smell it.
just sit down with a apple and wait,
apples and carrots might help you to get closer but do it over several days with out fearing them to come and take it from your hand.
What you need to do is get a sack of sweet feed from your local feed store. Make sure it is for Horses. Pour the feed into a bucket and sit the bucket right beside you and wait for the horses to come up and eat. Dont try to mess with them right away just let them gain your trust. After a couple of days put the feed in your hand and let them eat it there. Then what you might want to do is get some hay and feed it to them by hand. That should calm them down a lot. Never get loud around them and NEVER get behind or between horses. Dont make a move until you think they are COMPLETLY ready!
Yeah, I had this same problem with a gelding... What you do is slowly walk as close as you can, once they start acting nervous and look like they are ready to run, stop, turn around, and walk slowly away. You may have to do this several times but eventually they will let you get closer to them until finally you can get right up on them. They just need to learn that you are not going to hurt them, and the most inmportant thing you can do is go slowly.
keep going out there every day and be kind and dont be loud. they will get comfortable to ur preasans and will become curiouse and come over to u
The "rattle the grain in the can" thing always worked for me, but one never knows about a horse's history or mind. Perhaps the best thing to do would be to simply hang out in the pasture and let them come to you. Horses are almost always curious about people. I'd do this for several days without any ulterior motive--don't halter or grab them the moment they come up, just let them get to know you.
Get a pantomime horse costume
Eye contact. I you feel you are a threat, avoid it. When it reaches the point of trust, use it.
And all of the advice above.
Well it would be better if they wer in a smaller pen..
and then just go stand in the middle with oats or something and wait for them to come to you!
It worked for my horses
well you can approach it slowly with a carrot or a treat in your hand and talk to her as you approach it like...
what a good girl
what a beautiful girl
or like...
I'm not going to hurt you
just let the horse know that you are gentle and work her trust in you slowly twice a day, longer every time.
If they're like all the (wild) animals I've ever managed to train (dogs, cats, squirrels, birds, can't remember what else), it's the sound of your voice that they will key in on - talking softly instead of in a normal voice may be making them suspicious.
Do some other work with them within earshot and talk in a normal voice while doing it - try walking past them while doing other work (talking to ? or yourself) so they get in the habit of having 'your voice' (and you, of course) near them.
I'm in the process of kitten training - the 7 week old males run to my voice whenever I enter the garage - it's a hoot.
Start by feeding in a smaller pen. When they start coming in the pen easily for feeding, close the pen while they eat and leave them penned for several hours. Then seperate the horses because they will become dependant on each other. Start lunging one horse at a time until they have wore the fresh off and will answer your commands of Whoa and etc.. The horse will turn to face you and slowly will come to you when they feel they can trust you. This will earn their respect and build confidence in you and the horse. This could take several weeks, but it will work.
Get a bucket with grain in it, two or three scoops, and walk slowly towards them. When you can see in their face or body that they are thinking about running, stop and wait, let them look at you and decide you are not going to hurt them. When/If you get them to you, offer them the grain, but you hold it, or just leave it their.
Eventually, you should pet them while they are eating and you are holding the bucket. They will learn to trust moer, just give them time and patience!!
Good Luck :)
What I have done there in the pass was sit out there with them with a bucket of goodies put some on the ground let them see that your taking out of the bucket they will come up tp ypu give it time.
I think Craig B is on the right track. A smaller pen and getting them separated. If you are walking up slowly and quietly with treats, the horses might see you as a predatory animal. Get one alone and just do something in the pen. The horse will get curious and eventually come up to you. Good luck and don't get kicked out with the trio!
This may sound silly, but it usually works for me. Pay attention to the horse's and your body language. A horse which is willing to let you approach will usually drop his head a few inches.
When I approach a horse who is difficult to catch, I try to get him in a corner facing out. Then I approach his shoulder until he shows signs of nervousness - shifting feet, leaning away from me, flicking his tail unrelated to bugs. By approaching his shoulder while he is in a corner, my body blocks him from turning away from the fence or from going past me. The instant he looks nervous, I stop but keep my hand out at (his) nose level. Sometimes there is a small bucket of grain in that hand. The lead shank (and halter if not already on) is coiled and held still in my other hand, with the snap under my thumb and ready to clip.
Now comes the silly part: I relax and drop my shoulders and give a slow little nod while maintaining eye contact. And the really silly part: I also exhale and think about sinking my center of gravity into the ground between my feet. At this point, if the horse is willing to let you approach, he will respond by dropping his head a few inches. Sometimes you have to be patient and wait a minute for him to make up his mind. I think it is the visible, exagerated relaxing that makes this effective. Horses are prey animals. They are not afraid you will hurt them - they know in their bones you will EAT them.
When he gives you the nod, slowly go the rest of the way up to his shoulder. Let him stick his nose in the bucket for a bite of food, his reward for letting you approach. Snap the lead shank onto the halter. If you need to put the halter on, it should have been held in your hand ready to go. Set the bucket on the ground and feed the crown of the halter under his neck so his head is in the circle made by your arms holding the halter by the buckle in one hand and the crown in the other.
This works best in a catch lot, maybe 60 or so feet wide. In 12 years of working on standardbred nursery farms (2-4 stallions with books of 20 to 100 mares each), there were only a handful of determined old mares or yearlings that didn't respond positively. Good luck!
bring back some other horses from the pasture, if there are any, and make sure those three shy ones see you're gentle and feed the one you bring in. Then they might want to come in.
well what I would do is let them approach u. Sit or stand out in the pasture or wherever u are keeping them. It may take awhile so you might use this as a last resort but it works with my horses. But they'll get curious and come up to you eventually. You could also have someone go out with u to the pasture and stand there and talk they will get curious and hopefully work up enough nerve to come over.
It takes time you to earn a horses trust. visit them everyday, each day they will let u get closer, but never over step your boundry, if you see that they r getting nervous and scared, back off, or else you'll end up right were u started. Don't touch their boddies untill they r comfortable with you. approuch them with the back of your hand extended, that is howhorse greet one another, touch there noses, if they don't back up, start touching and stroking there nose, then move all over their face. then ears, neck, shoulders, then the rest of ther boddies. don't attempt halters untill u have earned their trust, or u'll totaly spook them. don't give up, it takes time and patience, but in the end it's worth it.
This will take time. Trust is key. Go to WalMart or somewhere you can get COB (Corn, Oats, %26 Barley) w/ molasses (preferably it just makes it sweeter). Make sure they see it and then lay it down in front of you a ways a way. Then, sit to where you can see what they do, but with your back turned. Get closer every day. If this doesnt work, email me @super-doodle@hotmail.com (dont want to give primary away)
I just posted a long answer on the My horse doesn't like my husband thread that should also work here.
I believe that separating the horses into pens next to eachother would be a good step. If you have something that is about 40-50 feet, even better.
Keep at it and good luck.
Oh, and I just wanted to say that the grain thing can work, but not if you're using it as a bribe. Horses don't understand bribes, and eventually they will just come to expect you to have grain or a treat, and possibly misbehave if you do not.
Being there while they are eating anyway is good, though.
i would go out there in my free time and just sit. i would maybe hold an apple or carrot, but just read or something. they'll get used to you being out there. and then slowly gain trust witht them.
Go and try to approach them a few times...then act like you give up...go sit down somewhere, but stay where they can get to you...soon enough they will come see why you stopped...remember NO SUDDEN MOVEMENTS..That is what I did with mine.Good Luck!
Just be gentle and get smaller than them. i was taught this when i was 8 years old. if you get smaller than them they wont be as scared. if they have only been there for the week, it might take them a while to adjust.
as long as you pretty much know they're safe then have a couple of treats in your pocket walk up until you're as close as you can get before they start going, turn round with your back to them, and just wait.if you want you can just stand there but either way just wait, talk to them in a really calm voice aswell if it helps.
Wat u should do is hold your hand far away from u and walk towards them slowly. then stop.then walk again. when u r about 4 feet away stop and wait...
I know a horse kinda like that i would take it slow and try to go out there with a treat and hide the halter behind ur back if he takes it while he is eating put the lead rope around his neck (drape) so he knows hes caught!! I hope this works!

I have 3 horses and one is a gelding but he acts like a stallion... he is moody one day and fine the next :-(?

his name is rusty when we got him he was alone and had cribbing problems and now he cant stand to have the two mares away from him one day he charged through a fence! i dont want my parents to sell him and i dont want him to get hurt from anoughther fence. he acts like a gelding one day and a stallion the next i think he is an arabian standeredbred mix maybe morgan... i love him and i dont want him to be sold... i need help...FAST!
Answers:
The first thing you need to check is to make sure he's not a 'rig', or chryptorchid. Occasionally, stallions will retain one testicle inside their body, and it's a more complicated surgical procedure to have it removed. Sometimes, the owners will only remove the visible testicle and leave the other inside. When this happens, gelding will still act and feel like a stallion. It's also possible the gelding was 'proud cut' and part of a testicle was not removed. Talk to your vet. If this is the case, you will need to have the retained testicle removed as it poses a health risk to the horse to leave it in his abdomen, not to mention a problem keeping him around other horses if he's being so obnoxious.
Horses that have a history of cribbing problems are often nervous in general. Your gelding is spoiled and herd-bound and would rather go through a fence than be separated from his herdmates. He's probably learned that his abominable behavior gets him what he wants since it sounds like you're nervous about him, which will only make it worse.
Have the gelding seen by a vet to make sure he's actually a full gelding, and then work with a trainer to improve his behavior. Do you have a safe place to confine him away from the mares? A sturdy box stall or round pen with walls at least 8 feet high is needed. Some horses get so 'herd bound' they'll really injure themselves to get back with the group, so care is necessary. It would probably be easier to start the process if you could take him or the mares to another place, which would allow you to work with your gelding without the distraction until he learns to feel a bit more comfortable when he's by himself. Pat Parelli, Chris Cox, Clinton Anderson, and other well-known trainers have safe, humane, time-honored methods of dealing with problems like these, and you may want to look into those.
Horses are naturally social and need another horse or animal for companionship, but a well-trained horse will behave when he's by himself, too. Get some professional help with your gelding before a person or the horse is hurt.
Since he was alone earlier in life, he is probably scared of being left alone again. Was he pastured with the mares when he first got there? It's possible that he became attached to them and is now having issues with that. OR maybe he was gelded at a late age. Many horses that are gelded late in life tend to keep their stallion-isitc tendencies for their whole lives haha.I say that if they are all safe together I see no reason why the mares cant be pasture with the gelding. If you don't want to do that or if it proves to be unsafe then get him a pasture mate to become friends with and relocate them to a pasture where the mares are out of sight-- a lot of horses don't like being alone. And if you don't want to buy another horse get a goat! Goats are GREAT horse companions believe it or not and they wont cost AS much =)
This can be several different problems. One problem is that the horse may have bred at least once before being gelded. That means he knows the feeling of being with a mare, even though he can't "perform", he still gets the urge, and the scent of a mare, especially if a mare is in season. Male horses, whether gelded or otherwise, have basic male instincts when it comes to the opposite sex.
another issue could be that the horse was "proud cut" meaning that even PART of a testicle was left inside of him. usually a whole testicle, but there have been incidents involving partialities. This serves as a problem because he can still mount and impregnate a mare in SOME cases, and there is nothing like having a brazen gelding lemme tell ya!
another common issue can be the simple fact that he has bonded to your mares, in whic case you might want to just keep them together. Horses ARE social creatures, and do require a fair amount of companionship. If your gelding has bonded to one or both mares, then yah, hes likely to get upset when seperated from his girls, especially since he lived a lonely life before this.
It may be best to just keep him with the mares, and let him have his way. He will be happier, and it will be even more so worth it for you!
I think you should plan more and keep them together.
For instance, if you need the mares, (one or both) catch him FIRST and tie him to something sturdy.
Then go in and get the girls. Leave him tied until they can be reunited. Maybe a special head stall will be needed just for him.
Also, work all three together. If you have a class or whatever, make sure they stay together. Think of them as a unit. Plan for them to work together.
Good luck
Your description of your horse doesn't sound so much that he is "stallion like" as that he is "herd bound" to the extreme.
Up to 30% of geldings can show some stallion like behaviors. Some are proud cut or have some physical reason to retain stallion like behaviors, but many are not. Your equine vet can draw blood and check your horse's hormone level, this will show whether he has a physical problem. That will give you an idea whether that is part of you problem.
Most likely your horse is overly attached to the mares and is "herd bound". Perhaps you can solve his problem by simple modifications such as keeping him alone part time in a sturdy and safe location, or sending him to a trainer, or slowly modifying his behaviors by training. John Lyons and Pat Parelli both have alot of suggestions on how to teach your horse to cope moving away from a buddy. Their ideas often revolve around moving your horse two steps from his friends, and then returning him. Then moving him 3 steps away and returning, slowly teaching him that he can seperate without big problems. These are excellent excercises and if you are experienced enough they may work for this horse.
You also need to consider whether this horse is a good match for your situation. A horse can be a good horse and yet not be the right horse for you. You will have to ask yourself whether you have the skills, patience, maturity, fencing situation, time and effort to take this problem and solve it while keeping both yourself and your three horses safe. I know that the thought of selling a horse is awful and won't make me popular, but even more important is keeping everyone safe. I would be somewhat concerned about a horse that has some nervous issues with cribbing even before you bought him (as another writer mentioned also) and then is anxious enough when seperated briefly that he will run straight through fences.
I would advice you to talk to a good trainer and some experienced friends before deciding what to do. Good luck and may the best work out for you and this horse.
i hav a horse like that aswell they called it
"cut pround"

I have 2 Questions...?

1.) My Horses is about 16 hands and he has like...a kink in his back leg. He has had it for a while...there is nothing broken or fractured but sometimes when we canter he has to carry it for a few steps. Do you think I should get a joint supplement or any suggestions are welcome.
2.) My friend works at a barn and mare has picked up a bad habbit of dropping her head to the ground right after a jump so her hind end propels you foreward and off. Suggestions on how to correct this?
Answers:
To question 1. you have already gotton the suggestion you were probably expecting...Vet exam. Unfortunately, none of us can see the horse in action or be there to run our hands on him and can only give you some possiblities. I am leaning towards the possible stiffle problem myself, but I really would like to know what you mean by kink? Like a knot, buldge or bump? or a kink in the way he moves?
Warming him up before you canter is a must on any horse-..walking, trotting (jogging and extended trotting), circles and surpentines, and of course bending (just a few suggestions) -hopefully you are not one of those saddle up, hop on, hit the arena and canter people.
As for question 2. If I understand what you are trying to tell us... I have a horse that "used" to put his head down and almost stop and buck right after the jump as soon as his feet would hit the ground- VERY dangerous! He is and was perfectly sound with no ailments, he was just goofing off and thought he could get away with it.
IF and only IF- (I do not know your friends riding experience nor yours for that matter)- You are a strong rider, assertive and confident with good balance and a secure lower leg you may try this. Otherwise I suggest you have someone with more experience help with this issue.
Also you did not mention any height of the jumps, I am going to asume around 2' or so.
First of all comming into the jump you know that there is a possibility that she may drop out from under you after the jump so prepare...Sit up, sit deep and sit back. Stretch into your heels, and look up (where you are going, and NOT at the jump). Wait for the horse to come to you. You need to remember before you land to start to return to your saddle as soon as possible from your 2 point position over the fence, without comming down on her causeing her to drop the rail with her back end. This is securing your seat as soon as you can, giving you the anchor you need to push her through after the fence. As you land (stretching into your heals, Sitting up) you are simply going to have a good feel/ hold/ slight pull on the reins and a press with your lower leg and prevent it BEFORE it happens. If you come in on a loose rein and or land in one, and your are landing with your weight on her neck instead of holding yourself up, then she has all the opprotunity she needs to dump you. If you assertively push her through this split second moment every time, she will realize that this is time to pay attention not misbehave, and will stop doing it and proseed to the next jump in a fluid fashion as she should.
Hope every thing works out for you! Happy jumping!
eww
Yucca is the best supplement for joint in horses. Make sure he is completely warmed up before you break into the canter too, that will help.
Well, I will only give my opinion on the first one. I won't get into the "jumping" world as I'm not qualified and maybe I'd be wrong.
The first horse however... I don't know what you mean "kink" but I do understand the "holding"... again may not be right but I own a stifled horse and this just sounds like his stifle is locking out. Get your vet to do a full exam, better safe than sorry, and have them give you a "rehab" program if its the case. My vet helped me on a "saved" horse, he was on his way to slaughter in May and I had him to world by the end of october, same year (not his qualifying obviously but... what I ride you can "supplement one horse for another). AND, (not all stifle injuries will be as minor as his but rehab on a stifle is the biggest factor! I have a GREAT vet, very knowledgeable on everything I toss his way, he hasn't faultered on me yet. If this is the case, and you don't get much help from yours. . I'd be more than happy to repeat his words or give you his number so you can hear it straight from the horses mouth, so to speak!!
Good luck
suggestion for the first question, are you sure he hasn't gotten stung or has some part of a fence in it, a splinter could have caused an infection.
Give the glue factory a call!
I would agree that your horse's stifle should be examined before you go any further. Giving a horse suppliments can be very beneficial, but there is no use paying for a product that can't help your particular problem. Suppliments such as glucosamine can help with arthritis and joint problems, but I don't think they will do much for a stifle problem. Make sure your vet is very experienced with horses, and make sure he sees the horse lope. I would take along a lunge line at the least, or better yet, plan to ride the horse for the vet to see.
Second question - it would be really helpful to see what the horse does when it jumps. You make it sound as though the horse really bobs its head down after each jump, which is very unusual as it would throw the horse off balance as well as the rider. I would wonder about a soundness issue with this horse, too. It might be worthwhile having a lameness check, or if nothing else having a chiropractor work on his back or something like that to see if it help. Obviously the lameness check would give you an idea if there was pain, and where since once again its pretty tough to treat pain if you don't know where or what it is!
If the horse is totally sound, do you think the horse is purposely trying to misbehave, or is it just not schooled well or poorly trained? I think I would go back to square one and do alot of schooling the horse over groundpoles, doing alot of really low grid work and getting the horse to move forward, relax and forget about this behavior. If it is misbehaving you might need professional help to learn what to do - I suspect it needs to be pushed forward after the jump, which is where grid work might help. It is is not trained well, then it needs a better foundation in the basics before you raise the jumps.
Anyhow, good luck with both horses. Hopefully their problems can be solved with a bit of help from an expert!
1) I don't know much about horse's hips, but my riding teacher's horse had this think in his hip, and he did this thing with his hip. It was kinda wierd but it worked, you could try to look it up.
2) My horse did the same thing for a while. I hate pulling on the rains-I think it's torture, but you have to wait till she's about to do it, right as she's about to put her head down, jerk on the rains and she'll put her head up. It might take a few tries, but it works.
For the @nd question...
Does she do this after every jump? do you feel like your holding her up? If so just let go of the reins when she does it and "drop her on her head" she will then learn to carry her own head . . . do this for a while and she should get the hang of it.
You should def. talk to a vet about this problem. I'm sure its bruised tissue or even a bruised bone.
thats weird
My horse Scarlet did the same thing because when she was less than a year she got tangled up in some nasty barb wire. Now when we ride some times you will here a click. I would call a vet and ask them for advice.
It does sound like a stifle issue with your horse. This happens when the horse's ligament associated with the kneecap slips over the lower part of the femur and locks his knee in place. This is locking suppose to happen so he can stand when he is resting. If he can't unlock it while moving that is where you get either short strides in back or the rear leg lifted for a few strides. If his condition is intermittant or mild, regular exercize that really makes him work his hind end should help - work up gradually. But if it gets worse, the area swells or is persistant you should get a vet check right away - supplements WON'T help this problem. If rehab does not work there is a surgery that cuts this ligament and has a pretty good success rate, but your boy will have to lay down to rest. Good Luck!
Question 2 - So many things could be causing this - probably rider related (is she trying to avoid the bit as the rider tries to catch thier ballance?) or back related - pain will cause a horse to gradually get what we think are "bad habbits."
Jessie.
I recommend J-flex concontrate. My stiff horses can work good after it.
As for the other horse. Tell her try jumping then stopping. Try trooting then jumping. Also, give her only as much rein as she needs to jump, if there is any extra rein pull it up.
Good Luck!
Pretty boy! if he only does this once in a while, it probably isn't a huge deal, but something is bothering him-I don't think I would call the vet if you can't feel any heat in it, but next time you see the vet for something else, I would mention it. If it gets worse, then definitely get the vet. For the mare, knowing she does this, I would probably start carrying a crop, and as soon as she gets over the jump and starts to lower her head, pop her with it a few times--the bat with the wide end makes more noise than discomfort, but this is a dangerous habit and needs to be nipped immediately. You can make a training aid--they probably can be bought, but can't remember the name right now, but it is like a reverse martingale. it attaches to the saddle, runs up the neck,then splits and runs down the cheek straps and hooks to the bit on each side. it is short enough that when she tried to lower her head past a certain point, it automatically pulls the bit and her head back up, but if she is going normally, it doesn' t affect her at all.
for your first question- I have a 15 year old TB who has a weak back end (was a racer and we rescued him from an abusive trainer). do more riding outside of the ring, like trail rides and trot sets up and down hills. this will help strengthen his back end which will help when he is cantering. you can try commercial joint supplements to protect against future joint damage or start him on injectable joint lubricators like Legend or Adequan (take to you vet).
for your second question- work more on the flat or over ground poles striving to get a lighter, more uphill canter. also, you might get the vet out to evaluate if she has back or joint problems. also, check if her saddle fits properly. if all that is well, then while jumping, give half-halts on the approach to make sure that she is balanced and in front of the leg, and practice a deeper 2-point and make sure that you are not holding the reins so tight the you are popping her in the mouth or getting left behind. grab a piece of mane or the top of a breastplate and give her so slack in the reins just after takeoff. make sure you don't drop your shoulders over the jump and try to secure your body with your abs
he is pretty. a relaxer probably would work and if it doesn't you should have the vet take a look at it because it might be arthritis.

I got more questions?

3 - The bit is placed?
under the tongue
on the tongue
4 - What do you have to do to increase to a faster speed?
Let go of the reins
Violently strike the horse with the whip or spurs
Use your calves
5 - A horse's diet includes cereals, these are preferably given (adjective depending on the type of cereal):
Broken
In powder
Flattened
Crushed
6 - The quality of the soil on which the horse works is very important, check the right statements:
The frog has a shock-absorbing role; it must be released to work well
Mixed soil is harmful to horses as it tires out both the tendons and the joints
Sticky soil which forms packets under the horse's hooves enable it to absorb shocks better
Hard soil tires out the joints
Deep soil tires out the tendons
Answers:
3 - The bit is placed?
on the tongue
4 - What do you have to do to increase to a faster speed?
Let go of the reins
5 - A horse's diet includes cereals, these are preferably given (adjective depending on the type of cereal):
Crushed
6 - The quality of the soil on which the horse works is very important, check the right statements:
Deep soil tires out the tendons
The bit is placed on top of the tongue.
To go faster you should cluck with your tongue and if necessary give your horse a little kick. definitely do not strike the horse- you'll end up on your ***!
I don't understand question 5.
The frog is for shock absorbtion
ok more right.
1.on the tongue
2.again use your calves
3.crushed or flatten
can't help you with the last one sorry
hope it helps
3. on the tongue
4. use your calves please
5. preferabley whole is best to get all nutrients
6.Frong has shock absorbing role
1.The bit is placed on the tongue
2.To increase speed,release pressure on reins slightly, and squeeze with calves.
3.crushed
5.not sure...

I got a job in the working student program at a local stable!?

I start Mon. and I am freaking out.I AM SO SCARED!!! I'm working with the summer camp there. How do I show the woman in charge of the stables I'm a realiable, responsible 11 year old? Any other tips would be welcome. THANKS!
Answers:
I'm 11 too! I work at a barn and have been riding for 7 years there. don't worry. Wear riding pants in case you ride, but don't expect much. You'll be the "Can you please, hand me that curry comb?" or in some cases, "What's taking so long for my horses stall to be cleaned?" Try your best and don't respond to the second type. If you want to quit, please don't. If you keep it up you'll be riding the horses soon!
Relax! You will probably be cleaniing out stables to start. Just listen to the person in charge very carefully and do everything you're told to do. Don't slack off. Lots of young people nowdays will do a shoddy job because they don't care. Don't worry I'm sure you'll have fun too. Good luck!!
Just do the best you can.I know it's a very scary thing,but once the first day is over you'll feel so much better. Show her how much you want to work %26 learn and you'll do great. All the best;^)
Show up on time, dress neatly (even if all you are going to be doing is cleaning stalls), listen and follow directions, be polite, smile, and do the best job you can and then give it another once over for a 110% effort. You will be fine. Have fun!
BE reliable, BE responsible and BE yourself....
Remeber that you are to set a good example for eveyone and welcome everyone. If you drop it ,pick it up, if you open then close it, if you get it out, clean it first, and then put it away.
Sometimes my younger students have been in a rush to impress upon me that they have read many horse books and magazines and openly discuss how they disagree with what I am teaching or saying..If you you find yourself in disagreement with something being taught or said, ask your mentor at a time away from the campers and listen to the answer.
Always say please and thankyou. Never complain about the weather. Make sure you drink a lot of water and that the other campers have water too.
Dress the part, be on time ready to work. Ask questions and don't take youself too seriously. At 11 years old, you should never be left in charge even for a minute. If you make a mistake...That's OK. Just don't practise your mistakes.
HAve a great time!!
Congratulations on getting the job !
The important thing to do is follow instructions and if you don't know how to do something or where to find something ask - don't just go wandering around.
Remember to be safe and sensible. I'm sure you'll be just fine.
Hope you enjoy yourself.
First, RELAX! lol.
Just listen to everything anyone who is in charge of you says,
get to the barn on time,
and go prepared.
Make sure you are dressed so that you can be ready to ride, just in case.
Be alert,
pay attention,
dont slack
and dont something half way.
Also, be friendly with the other people there.

Make sure you're not butting heads with other people your age.
You'll be okay.
Good Luck!
***~Turn n' Burn~***
If in doubt, ask and don't be afraid if you don't understand the answer - ask them to clarify it for you. Ask if they need certain tasks done within a certain timeframe such as mucking out so you kn how long you have to get things done and most importantly, have fun and learn
Hope you have a great time!
You need to be happy and calm you cant freak out because it will show her you are not ready. REMEMBER THIS when ever somthing scares you it usualy dosent turn out as bad as you think it will so just be cool cause it will be fine
just breathe! if the owner is hiring 11 year olds, she probably is a nice and forgiving person, so don't worry about it. she isn't expecting you to be perfect!
good luck!

I don't understand how the tie rings work. Can someone please help me out??

I've seen people ask questions about them, but only on how good they are. I don't understand how letting a horse pull all the way back will teach them to not pull back. This actually blows my mind a little. What I was told to do and have done is just put a thick bronch halter on them tie it short to something that will stand forever, and just let them pull until they wear themselves out and realize it's useless. Can someone help me understand this other method why it works, how it works, what it does, and what happens. Thanks for all your help.
Nash
Answers:
i have a tie ring and let me tell you they are a dream come true.
I use to think that just tying them to a sturdy object worked to until my mare figured out she could break the rope!!! I've also had a friend of mine whose horse pull back with so much force that he fractured his neck!!!
when the horse pulls the rope through the aussie tie ring the rope stays tight and then the moment the horse stops and relaxes the tension stops. then you lead the horse back up to where you started and wait again for the horse to back up. after a while to horse realizes that if he backs up the halter puts pressure on his head if he doesn't there is no pressure. (the horse basically teaches himself to tie.) after a while you put it on a harder setting and do the same thing. this time it gets harder to pull the rope through the ring so it discourages the behavior even more and then the 3rd setting is very hard to pull through. If she really panicked she might pull it through a little bit but she'd soon stop.
on my mare who broke the lead rope she backed up maybe 4 or 5 times and each time she backed up less and less until all she has to do is put her head up and it all stops right there. believe me it works wonders!!
P.S. make sure you use a rope halter so the pressure is clear. and make sure to start with the easiest setting first and then go to the harder setting so injury risks become less likely.
A horse usually pulls back when feeling trapped or anxious.
When tying a horse to something solid like a tree, or a fence, many problems can arise should the horse decide he needs to pull back.
A horse might be able to pull free by sitting back until either the halter or the lead rope breaks...However, most times these things can hold up to the pressure, and the real problem begins: when the animal flips himself over and breaks his neck, when the tree limb or fenceboard he was tied to comes loose, or when the horse jumps forward suddenly into the fence and injures himself.
A tie ring is used so that, should the horse want to pull back, he can do so safely with little resistance, yet still remain tied. A long lead rope is used so that there is plenty of slack for him to pull back on.
After the horse pulls back far enough from the fence so that he doesn't feel threatened he will relax, and instant slack in the lead rope is given to him as a reward. At that time, the owner should lead him back up to the tie ring, and pull the slack back up.
Many owners try anything to make their horses pull back when on a tie ring, and this is actually beneficial to de-spook them. When the horse obliges and pulls back, he learns that being tied is nothing to worry about, because he can always get away if an emergency arises. Most horses, when used to pulling back, do so out of habit to get their freedom. A horse that pulls back on a tie ring remains tied, and so their reward for their bad behavior is lost.
For some horses, your method and others like it will work. Many others, though, have such a high "fight or flight" instinct that nothing can convince them to stop fighting the rope and just stand tied.
EDIT: DM, there are repercussions; depending on what setting you put the ring on, the lead rope will not give way so easily, and it will take a good effort to gain a little leeway.
You train/despook your horses when on a tie ring, so that they learn not to pull back when tied solid. That way, if the horse does pull back when on the ring, there is no risk of injury, and you can continue with training until the horse stands quietly. A tie ring is simply a training tool to help your horse learn to stand quiet when tied solid.
I am under the firm belief that if the horse feels it can pull back without repercussions, it will teach them that it's all right. And what happens if you don't use a tie ring? They're done it so many times with the ring they just bust right through their tie. I'm not saying these other folks are wrong, but this is my experience. It's dangerous for you and your horse.

I don't know whats wrong!!?

I noticed today my horse has a snotty nose ( it is green and really gooey )
i don't ride her
i have been giving them dried corn on the cob (for a treat every once in a while)
is this a health issue
is it serious?
or is it just something i shouldn't worry about?
can all my other horses get it?
and what is they best way to get rid of this ?
please help all your answers are appreciated!!
Sadie
Answers:
Horses can have a creamy or clear nasal discharge without any signs of infection. Discharge can be due to dust or other irritation. Normally green tinged discharge is a sign of some sort of viral or bacterial infection. It should have nothing to do with what you have been feeding your horse.
I would probably wait for a day and observe your horse. Is the discharge worse or better? Does she have a cough, shortness or breath, poor appetite, listlessness, fever (take her temp rectally) or any other sign that indicates that she isn't feeling well?
If she has a bacterial or viral infection, then yes, your other horses certainly might get it. You might want to put her in a seperate pen while you wait to see what develops. Her pen needs to be set up so that she cannot touch or breath on the other horses. Keep an eye on the rest and see if they come down with discharge or other health problems in the next day or so.
The fact that your mare is active and eating well makes it sound as though she is not very sick right now. But if she gets worse in any way, you'll need to contact your vet. She may need to go on antibiotics. Any time your horse is seriously sick it is a good idea to take extra time observing that horse and any others so you can give all the info to your vet.
Take care and good luck.
hmm.. I would think that green snot is not good. Has your horse been vaccinated? Also is there anything else unusual that you notice about her? I would have a vet take a look.
green snot is generally a sign of a respiratory infection - i would contact your vert who should be able to give you ati biotics to lift the infection, also if left un treated may cause breathing difficulties.
Green is never a good color coming out of a nose. It usually signifys some sort of infection.
Is the horse acting sick??
I would consult a vet to be safe at the very least.
It sounds like she may have a cold like a human one, this is the positive aspect of it...But it also sounds a little like strangles, which can be fatal if not treated.
Either way get your vet to check her out, I'm sure she will be fine!
Before she gets any sicker, isolate her from the rest of the horses until you KNOW _EXACTLY_ what is going on with her so she doesn't spread whatever it is to the others in case it CAN be spread.
GET THE VET OUT _A_S_A_P_!!!! Your Vet can give the horse proper treatment and help you learn more about what is going on and how to deal with it in the future should it happen again.
I once had a horse that got a snotty nose every time he got a chill. The vet told me to just give him some Erythromycin for seven days to clear it up. Your vet MAY tell you the same.
But DEFINITELY keep your horse away from the other until your Vet comes out. I the horse will be just fine with proper and PROMPT medical treatment. So don't panic.
In the mean time keep an eye on all the other horses that have been in contact with the sick one to make sure whether or not they're coming down with the same thing.
First take her temp, pulse and heart rate and if they are elevated, call the vet. Also check to see if her limbs are filling. If they are which they tend to do with rhino flu, call the vet too. Otherwise, I'd keep her away from other horses and leave it a few days to see what she is doing. Her temp should be taken at least 3 times per day over the next few days so you can see what is going on. Could be an URI and some forms of distemper like strangles or pigeon fever start with green snot. A course of SMZ might be all that is needed if it's URI. Antibiotics should be avoided for strangles and pigeon fever as it can cause the abscesses to internalize (bastard strangles).
Your Horse Is Fine It Has Just Caught a Cold, All You Need To do Is Wipe Away The Snot. It Will Eventually Go. I Had That Problem With My Horse It Just Clears In a Couple Of Days. Hope It Will Help You x
It sounds liek your horse either has a chill/cold or something infectious greeny yellow discharge is never goos id your horse acting different in any way ? does she seem uncomfortable? if so call your vet. isolate your horse because she could be infectious evernt time you associate with her or touch anything she has been near/touched wash your hands immidietly and do not tough other horses , you could be spreading it! make sure no other horses use her bucket etc if it is infectios other horses around your yard could get whatever she has! call your vet and ak him to take a look she should be absolutely fine!
Just a thought... since the discharge went away. The horse could have 'choked' while eating. In most cases the horse will have large amounts of green, slimy discharge
with food particles mixed in come out of the nose.
It still could be viral or bacterial, but if the discharge went away completely, her vitals are normal and she is acting fine, I wouldn't worry about the vet, personally. If you like, you could always call for a consult.
I would definitely have the vet out as a precaution. Take her temperature, too, if you know how and see if she is running a fever.
Green discharge from her nose can be something as simple as an allergy that might need some medication, to something as difficult to deal with as a full blown sinus or tooth root infection, which can get ugly and nasty and involve holes in their head during the very expensive treatment, to something contagious like STRANGLES.
Separate her from the other horses on your property and get a vet out to look at her. At the very very least, she needs to be started on some kind of antibiotic. The discharge from her nose should be cultured to find out not only what it is exactly, but also what it is susceptible to.

I have 2 mares that live totally alone, no contact at all with other horses, yet somehow in the dead of winter in February, they both got strangles. One started and two days later another got it. Go figure.
It is a wise choice to get the vet out in any case.

I dont know what bit to use for my horse?

Before I bought my horse, he was cowboyed. If you dont know what that is,its when a horse is made to run barrels and nothing else. No fun trails or anything. So when I bought him, he was pretty much crazy. Over the 3 years that i have owned him, I have trained him alot. But now I have been working on some dressage with him and I have been lunging him over some caveleti. (hope i spelt that right) he has been doing really good in the ring but if I want to just take him on a pleasure ride he gets all hyper and he doesnt have any brakes at all. I have tried using different riding hand and leg signals and i have tried using a kimberwick strait mouth, a double jointed D-ring, a snaffle, and an eggbutt. the one that worked the best was the kimberwick. but it just didnt have what i wanted. not enough brakes.i thought about using a slow twisted snaffle for more brakes. should i?
Answers:
Brakes do not come from a bit they come fram training.
If all he has done is run barrels I would leanr how to do a one rein stop.
I would trail ride in what ever bit you are going to be using when you compete or show. That way he will get used to that type of bit.
When they have done spped events you spend alot of time teaching whoa or stop.
I work with off track thoroughbreds. I spend much time on teaching whoa and slow and work through the idea that they run everywhere they go. I also teach that they have to stand still to be mounted, something OTTBs are not taught to do.
I start all of mine in a french link snaffle and that is what I use for all of my horses. I do not change bits but I also do not show or compete so there are no rules about what I have to use. I like the french link as alot of the TBs have a low roof to their mouths and the break in the center keeps it from poking them in the roof of the mouth. Then they do not head toss.
I would spend more time training but I would use the bit you are normally going to use. Sometimes switching to a harsher bit makes things tougher than they really are.
Have some fun with him also and he may decide that trails and just out riding is a good time when understands he is not expected to run each time he is ridden.
First of all being Cowboyed has nothing to do with running barrels.

Your horse is probable used to a bit with leverage or a gag. A twisted wire might work just don't go to thin. The whoa factor has to start in the arena. I would start using verbal cues and a twisted snaffle and go from there. If you must go on trails then I would pull him in a tight circle and say whoa and sit deep, once he stops pat him and try again ( every few steps until he gets it).
Make sure when you 1/2 halt and ask him to stop you say whoa and once he begins to stop then release pressure.
Good luck
I assume by your horse being "cowboyed" you mean he was ridden western or stock horse style. Most horses ridden in this style progress from a snaffle type bit as a young horse, to a bit with "shanks". The shank is the part of the bit that is outside of the mouth that creates leverage. When you said your horse worked best with a kimberwick, that tells me he is used to a leverage type bit - leverage bits also use the chin strap to increase this leverage. Horses in speed events such as barrels are notorious for their hyperness and hard mouths. I applaud your use of a "softer" bit while training, but if you want to pleasure ride him you'll need to find a "harsher" bit to keep his attention and be safer. See if you can find a trainer or other rider that has alot of different bits for you to try out before spending money on one - they can be expensive. You are going to try and find a western style bit. It can be broken (like your snaffles), it can be a solid mouth, whatever. The longer the shank, the more leverage you have. Different horses work with different bits. Try to use the mildest bit that you can that still gives you control. Also consider using a mechanical hachamore. That also creates added pressure instead of only your own muscles strength that is achieved with the bits without shanks. Stay in an enclosed area while you're trying them out so you and your horse gets the feel of them. Of course, if in doubt, find someone to help you! The goal is of course is to soften his mouth and get his respect, so keep working in the ring with the "english" bits and use as soft a hand as possible when you ride with a leverage bit and you can get him to eventually respond without using the other bit. It may take awhile tho!
I always used a hard-rubber pelham with 4" to 5" shanks. It's basically like a straight kimberwicke with a tad more control. I had no problem pushing any of my horses onto the bit, and got great collection humanely. Just a heads up; I never used voice commands with any of my show horses, since any other rider who uses voice commands can influence another horse in the ring, especially if it is a large class on the flat.
It may not be the bit nessicarily (sorry, im bad at spelling) because if he is ok in the ring, it may be another issue. You said he was cowboyed, so it sounds like someone might have just breezed him on trail, so every time he goes on trail he thinks he gets to run.
I would try going with someone else, and keep him in back. If that doesn't work, you may need a stronger bit just for trail rides, and use a lighter bit for the ring, so you are not using more pressure than you need.
You could also try to just walk him a few times on trail so he gets used to trails more.
Once he calms down on trail, you could use his regular bit for trail.
Good Luck!
it isnt the bit it is how he has been trained or him just being nervous. if you have a more trusted horse that he knows and someone willing to ride him you can ride the one that was cowboyed and maybe he will calm down. if your trails are wide enough and you dont mind walking him through them would be a very good idea! it will also make it so he cant run off if you are at his head he may also be more relaxed!
good luck
Personally i would try a different snaffle bit or a bit with copper beads on it those are really good i just forgot the name of it also round penning him and tell him to stop and go also practices the so called brakes. The bit only helps a little. Hope this helps
They have a high port kimberwick you can get. That has better brakes, if he liked the straight kimberwick, but it wasn't quite enough.You can get something called bit keepers, they attach to both rings on the bit, usually nylon or leather so you can have more leverage %26 even pressure, %26 sit back deeper on him, until he learns to slow down. It keeps him flexing nice too. Dont give him his head at all to take off. Horses like that you have to think before they do %26 don't give him the edge. Don't let him make any decisitions on where your going ever. Do the opposit of what he tries to do until he learns quietly he can't do what he wants all the time.Do a lot of small circles with him every time he tries to take off until he calms down. You have to be patient with him until he's reprogramed to walk %26 behave.
Cowboy'd where I come from, (south dakota), doesn't mean that they were barrel horses. It means that they were just saddled up and ridden until they stopped bucking. No ground training at all...probably put in a chute to get the halter on...that is what Cowboy'd in my state means. You horse is just use to going all out all the time as that is what running barrels is. Since that is all he was used for...I agree with the other answer that said to learn the one-rein stop. It works wonders. Best wishes to you and your horse.
i would take him back to the round pen and ground drive him for awhile. that will soften him up and get him to respond better. a harsher bit isnt the answer, a little more training is.

I dont know the breed of my pony?

i brought her from riding stable at seaton in devon they didnt know,my pony is called foxy lady she is six years old 12hh and dun roan colour with black dorsal strip down back and black zebra stripes on legs and has a very cute face,does any one know her or her breed,she is stocky not small,please any help.
Answers:
Why are all answers so sarcastic on here? She could possibly be a part bred norwegian fjord horse, although they tend to stand around 13 - 14.2hh. have a look on here and let me know if this looks like her at all?http://www.fjordsociety.co.uk/index.html...
Good Luck
hold a gun to its head then it will tell you
look it up on the internet or go to your local stables and ask them...good luck!
It will cost some money, but if you really want to know what breed you have, just have a DNA test done. Hope this helps lead you in the right direction.
Can you post a picture?
Do an internet search "Norwegian Fjord" and look up the images. They are a fantistic breed. 12hh sounds a bit small for a Fjord, though. She may be a cross?
The dorsal stripe is a give away, one of the scandinavian countries have horses with this - I think she could be Norweigen maybe? Exmoor's sometimes look like this too. Look up those breeds on the net and maybe that will help. The Norweigens (I think!) are also very stocky and cute. Not 100% sure I'm giving you the right one, but it's definately one of those countries, and they have been importing a lot of them in recent years as they carry weight well and are calm. Good luck with your research! Try Horse Imports in a search engine, they are in lincs I think, for goodness sake don't buy a horse from them, but they may have some you can compare her with! Ooh, just thought, could be Belgian? If you look on the net you will find both breeds and that should help!
email me at tali.rocks@yahoo.com with a photo and i might be able to take and edicated guess at it.
I would agree she sounds like a norweigen ford pony type breed - or she could have a breed of welsh pony in her also.
xx
It is probly a Fox Trotter Pony.
Try buying a book on horses and try to match your pony with the breed. Some horse books have a pony section so make sure it does before you buy it...
idk its kinda hard without a picture
maybe and icelandic?? idk really...
maybe shez just a grade horse..
ohh well! ya love her anyways!!! %26lt;3
You've said it yourself. A 'foxy lady', 'black dorsal strip' 'zebra stripes'.. A few years ago there was a story about a dolphin who swam up the river Shannon and was hunted and eaten by a pack of foxes. As we now know, dolphin is a class-A drug and an aphodisiac to foxes. A zebra at Limerick zoo was horribly assaulted by them. The zebra of course turned pale as snow after it happened, though with surprisingly rosy cheeks. That even her offspring is cute looking doesn't surprise me.
Generally if a pony is not a pure bred with papers from a society you will not be able to find out what breed it is.
Good luck with your pony.
I would say and exmoor or dartmoor pony, she sounds about the right height and build. Or she could just be a mixture, not everything horse is a purebred!
Most stocky pony's i've heard of are at least some part shetland so you've got a good chance at that.
1, ask the opinion of your vet. After all if you buy any horse, it should be vet checked.
2. look at pictures of breeds in a horse book.
By your description, it certainly is a buckskin as well. Good luck.
could be half a dozen breeds mixed in there hun,Possible the forge or could be Highland mix they have the stripe and are beautiful ponies the yard you got her from dint sound very helpful eh,Im guessing your passport has a lot of Unknowns thro it too,never mind shes still special to you what ever she turns out to be x Gail

I don't feel like I'm a good rider?

I've been riding horses for five years but I don't feel like I'm any good. The highest I've jumped is 2 feet 9 inches and I know how to canter but I get really self conscious when I'm riding in a group with people who are better than me. I have low self esteem. I'm just wondering from what I've told you do you think I'm a good horse back rider?
Answers:
Everyone gets insecure everyonce in awhile but it sounds to me like you are good. I mean, I've never seen you ride but jumping 2'9 is nothing a beginner can do, thats for sure!
I haven't seen you ride. How long you ride or how high you jump doesn't tell you if you're good! I'de been around horses my whole life, and it still took me 3 years before I would get on a horse that was bigger then 14 hands(I had to, I was almost 5'4). It took a long time and alot of ground work before I could trust the horse. It's how well you can communicate to the horse. If you understand that, then tell me how good of a rider you think you are now.
If you know the basics then your a good rider. Are you riding english, keeping heels down, shoulders straight, holding the halter right? Ive been riding for 8 years, and you just have to push yourself. Go for 3 ft next too, then go up to 4. You need to get over the self conscience issues. People ride differently, doesnt mean your way is any better or worse. Just be confident up there, and try and look as good and professional as you can.
Look: everyone, from their first minute on a horse, to their 50th year riding, makes mistakes, and its ok, because we have to have something to learn from! When you start to feel self conscious, then maybe start doing something you are really sure off. like maybe your posting is really good, or you have a perfect two-point. think about what you do know and what you can do. and remember that your horse wouldn't have you on his back if you were a bad rider.
If you still are feeling down on yourself, then find something you really really love doing (like trail ridind did it for me!) and do a LOT of it. remember than you're supposed to be having fun up there!
if you want to improve for training purposes, one of the best ways to do it is to get rid of the saddle (i dont recomend this for anyone who has a less than broke horse).
Riding bareback will instantly improve your balance, position, grip, etc
you can trail ride, jump (so much fun!), gallop, or just mosy around the areana and your body will be learning a better sense of balance all the while.
If you're nervous about bare back, then start by riding with out your stirrups in the saddle and riding just at a walk bareback.
There is nothing that increases your riding skill better.
I ride a lot of bareback because not only does my trainer say it helps tremendously, but I can see an instant difference when I'm having position difficulty in the saddle, and I take it off to try it bareback, and then i get back in a saddle and I can do it perfectly.
Bareback does have its downfall. It is easier to fall off. but if you get into it gradually and you are a safe person, then chances are you wont ever fall off becase you're riding with out a saddle.
Im sure that after five years, you have perfected many riding skills that the little kids who walk into my barn for their lessons are really envious of. Be proud of what you've accomplished so far and concentrate on moving forward!
good luck!
I remember feeling the same way. I've been riding for 7 years. Because my parents refused to pay for lessons and almost anything horse-related, I started as a working student for a trainer taking care of 8 horses and mules in exchange for lessons when I was 12 years old. She wasn't a kind trainer.. she lost her patience teaching me to ride English and only taught me to do Western walk/jog for like 5 years until I quit. I had very low esteem back as she always barked at me with negative remarks.
I finally ride somewhere else now with my own horse. And the highest I jumped is 2'6". I've won English classes several times and placed pretty high in most shows.
I've never considered myself a good rider. Some people are talented at it.. others, not so much. But the best way I've improved is by watching the good riders and implying the "monkey see monkey do" method. I suggest going to a horse show and watching the riders that win and place high, and compare your equitation and your horse. That way, you know what to work on and what doesn't.
Also, doing some no-stirrup work and bounces can really help you out. It hurts at first but later on it'll help your legs grow stronger.
Anyway, about being a "good horseback rider" is really a self-defined definition. But you can't compare yourself with others when it comes to self-improvement, except, yourself. =]
Good and bad is relative. If I could do what you can do, I would probably consider myself really good, because I am much worse and frankly I think I can't get any better. If you compare yourself to the world champion or sth. you are not so good. The important thing is to fulfil your own goals, one at a time.
Thats actually a question for your instructor to answer.
However, there are things to improve your riding such as bareback, no stirrups, lunging your horse with you on it and holding your hands out etc.
You might want to check into a book such as Centered riding by Sally Swift and have your instructor help you do those maneuvers.
no, you'll be up to 3 feet soon. Just tell youself you can ride as good as everyone else.
I don't want to sound mean or anything, but a good rider never asks anyone if they think they are a good rider. You shouldn't care what other people think of your riding ability, style etc. you can only be the best you can be nothing more. so just have fun and enjoy the horse your riding, don't worry about anyone else or their opinions :)
ur good trust me i have been riding for 2.5 years in english and can barely canter in an english saddle (i am fine in western though)
yeah you suck try riding ponies
I've been riding for 7 years and every time I get on a horse I feel like a look bad but I have people video tape me and I realize that I don't look like how I feel I look like lol.And everyone learns at their own rate too so don't worry about it.
what i would say is if you have been riding for 5 years you must have learned someting!!! give it a rest enjoy your horse and then go back to jumping! take a trail ride to relax also go to some local shows and watch ppl who jump badly! you can also videotape yourself jumping and go over it to see what you need to improve, just go over that 2'9'' jump till youre bored with it!!!!! dont push yourself to be parelli or something like that whenYOURE ready to go over that 3 footer youll know happy trails!!! ;-)

I do like want a pony because i probably wont grow much, but everyones telling me to get a pony.?

16yrs. 5ft. 110lbs. pony or horse? i doesnt matter about the falling, im not like scared, i just like smaller horses. i can get both, but would two ponies be better?
Answers:
You should like uh... get like a full grown horse. Because, like, you will probably grow a bit more. Like, OH MY GOD.
comprate una yegua chica....
Totally, you should like get a horse because ponies are for like babies or something. In a few years, you want to like ask your boyfriend to like come and ride a pony? Sooo not cool unless you want to look like a lil girl or something.
I already put this on your other one but I think a horse is better. Look at all the breeds. There are some pretty small horses out there. Look at Arabians. If you know about horses already then stick with that. Ponys do come with there own set of problems.
Okay? Like minutes ago you were 120lbs, and now your 110.
I think you're like totally full of it.
Like totally shut up you dumb little gurl.
Me-ow to that. :P
You are a very lucky young woman- you have a huge advantage that is denied to most adults once they get past your age. Because of your height, you can ride smaller horses, yes, but you can also ride ponies. That's a very rare thing with adults,since most of us are too tall or heavy for the average pony. As for that crap about not looking "cool" if you ride a pony as an adult, let me remind you that one of the most famous women on our Olympic team, dressage rider and medalist Lendon Gray, won her medals riding a Connamera pony named Last Scene, and she continues to ride and train ponies in the sport today. Lendon is also a long time advocate of establishing a national championship in the sport for young people, and her efforts have paid off. This just shows that smaller adults are not always limited to just being jockeys at the track- they can and do participate in other horse sports, and no one thinks any the less of them for their lack of height. My advice to you would be to go with whatever you are comfortable and happy with- and if the animal turns out to be a pony, then so be it ! These other nuts on here are just being nasty because they are either ignorant or jealous of you. I will let you in on another little secret as well- there are an awful lot of adults out there who wish they were shorter and could ride smaller horses- and some of them, like certain members of our show jumping and eventing teams, are famous. So go for it, no matter what size horse or pony you choose. Size isn't everything, anymore than winning is everything. Life will not stop if you decide to ride a pony instead of a horse. Good luck and have fun !!

I do eventing with my horse, however, I was wondering what the usual size of drops are for entry and pre entry

If you have any information, thanks. : )
Answers:
I believe that it's around 2.5', but may be introduced in Beg. Novice in way that is very inviting, instead of just a 2.5-3' drop off the backside of a bank.
The usual size is around 2.5' for the most part.. I bet on horse races when Belmont Stakes comes around.. so I know a bit about horses.. but I don't know how to ride them LOL
2.5 I am pretty sure.

I decided to name my horse bubbles... what should her show name be?


Answers:
Baby Bubbles
Bloomin bubbles
Bubbles go Pop
Don't Burst My bubble
Burstin Bubbles
Burstin Blue Bubbles
Tub of Bubbles
Bazooka Bubbles
Raining Bubbles
Fun's Bubbling Over
Bubba Darling
Bubbling Fool For You
Blubbering Bubbles
Summer Bubbles
Cuddle With Bubbles
I Love Bubbles
Bubbles Of Fun
Rythm N Bubbles
Need any more?? :D
Power Puff Girl
Rubba Dub Dub
Lots O Bubbles
Tiny Bubbles
Have a look at her registration papers.
bubblicious
Gotta love bubbles
well bust my bubble
bubble trouble
Burst This Bubble
Squeaky Clean
Rubber Ducky
Summer Funnin'
Bubblicious
Seltzer Knockout
Soda Pop

Fresh out.. Good luck!
bubble butt
bubble blowout
who poped the bubble
bursting bubbles
Bubble gum
Bubbleicious
double bouble trouble
extreem bouble
bubbabubble'%26#92;
bubblie
the sires name and then 's bubbles
i love my bubble
bubble
bubble bath
bubble
bubba
bebebubbles
bubbbubb
i love my bubbles
bubble babie
covva bubba
hubba bubba max
gummie
gummie bear
major bubble
soap
live for bubbles
bubbbbbbbbbb
bongor bubbles
bubbbles
bubbles!

i hope this is anough!!!!!! good luck:)
Bubbling fury
Personally, I would say "Bubble Toes" because I love the song by Jack Johnson.
I think Bubble-licious is cute!

Thats all!
Bubble Bubble Here Comes Trouble
Bubble Bubble Toil and Trouble
A Bit of the Bubbly
Bubble Bath and Candles
Bubbling Up
Bubbling Over
Blowing Bubbles
Busted Bubble
Bust Your Bubble
Rub a Dub Dub
Bubble Butt (hahaha... not really)
Bubble Blowing Betty
Double Bubble
Popping Bubbles
hmm... all I can come up with now! Cute name though. be really cute if she was like a dapple grey. Good luck!
if you mean nickname then bubby or ubbles
Champagne Bubbles
Sparkling Wine

I cant find a horse camp?

i need a horse camp in looking for a horse camp to go to for a week and i need it under a 100 dollers in washing ton plz i need a camp help plz thank you
Answers:
I'm not sure exactly what you are asking.
If you are a teen looking for a camp program that provides the horses, try: http://www.campwahoo.com/
I found the link here, there are other camps listed:
http://www.camppage.com/washington.htm...
If you have your own horse and are looking for campgrounds, try: http://www.washingtontourist.com/...
Good luck!
if you live in davie fl you can go to this place called bar-b-ranch its a really great camp oh and for more info. on this camp go to bar-b- ranch.com
If you want to go to a horse camp, i go to a good one called sunburst stables camp. lots of riding.
here is the website: http://www.sunburststables.com/...
its in georgia, but arrangements can be made for you to be picked up from the atlanta airport and then u just drive there with the camp director. i have to do this from kentucky. my bff, angela, refered me to it. i usually ride with lacy, the camp director, but one year, i had to ride with mark, who is the other director, and he was trailering a new horse from arizona. thats the horse i ride there! anyways, sunburst is sooooooo good. i highly reccomend it!

I cant figure out how to get a pass on howrse?

can any one help??? and i cant figure out how to buy a horse at a sale can u help
Answers:
to get passes you have to buy them with actual money, and to buy a horse at a sale or auction, click the "see" button on the farrrrr right of the column to bid.
At least for the sale, take a horse knowledgeable person with you, one with some vet basics, and have them look at all the horses you might be interested in. You may not find subtle problems, but you'll be able to catch any lame or otherwise unsuitable horses.
this isnt the right section for this.. people should stop posting it here and post it under the online gaming section.
if you can acess the private sales sell a good horse for 1 or more passes. you need 3 karma to get into the private sales and atleast 0 in the auctions. you can buy passes they are 10 for 15$$. their expensive. and you cant use your howrse money.
to buy a pass on howrse you have to put your mouse over at home and click on my passes. then you choose which way works best for you to buy passes. 10 passes cost 15 dollars on howrse. If you are trying to buy a horse at a sale in the auctions. you have to click on the see button and bid on a horse. It is really hard to win a horse on auctions. If you have 2 living horses and 3 karma points you can also buy a horse at the private sales.

I can't clip my mare's ears!?

We are leaving for a show tonight and I'd like to have all my horses bathed and clipped before we get there so I can relax, watch some of the show and have the time to school. Anyways, my mare will NOT allow me to clip her ears. I can't get a twitch on her and I cannot get a gum chain in her mouth. I have only had her for less than 2 months, so this is the first time that I am trying to clip her ears. Any suggestions? I need them clipped--she's a halter horse. We have tried tranq. her for various things included floating her teeth. The vet double tranqed her and still she was throwing her head. I now realize she has an issue with her face and mouth, etc..and it's something that will take time. I will begin slowly working with her until she learns to trust me and trust whats about to go on. But I'm in a pickle. I need a quick fix just for this show.
Answers:
I did this one time with a friends mare that you could not give enough tranq to to even get a twitch on, much less clip her ears. I used Nair for the bikini line (so it is not as harsh). It was not the best thing (I admit) to do, but it worked and then we worked on being able to clip her from there. When you get home, work with her everyday on this. Hopefully she will come around. And this is the best advice I ever got on clipping. In a John Lyons video about headshyness, he stated that if you clip your horse like you have all the time in the world, it will take you 15 minutes. If you clip like you only have 15 minutes, it will take you all night. And that has always been true around my barn. Good Luck at your show.
Its possible she could have a tick in her ear! One thing you might try is putting baby oil in her ear, when you do that, they will sometimes shake it out.
my mare wouldnt let me touch her ears with clippers or scissors. i got a solo comb ( for manes) and chopped her ear tufts off while scratching her ears...she suspected nothing lol. and no scary noise is made. U cud also get real sharp disosable shavers (4 legs) and cut with that(make sure it is sharp or it will pull the hair) its safer and more discreet dan scissors.
use a human razor, like u use to shave ur legs its what we had to do with our mare
Rompun is the way to go and then have one person hold the other ear while you clip the other side. Ace is useless, much prefer Rompun. I understand what you are saying and need to get them done and then work on issues later. that's how I did all ours including weanlings and yearlings which are not very compliant. The only other way is to get a lighter and singe them but that can be rather alarming when you see all that fluff go up in smoke. I've never done but seen people do it and I'd rather take the rompun route.
You are in a pickle. If you bully up on her, that will usually make a lasting impression. Only it will be a very BAD lasting impression unless you are very lucky and have a very forgiving horse. My suggestion would be to use hair removal cream. It takes longer, but it is better than nothing. Good luck. Stay safe in what you attempt to do with her.
This sounds like a big issue, mostly because you are pressed for time.
I would suggest just using scissors to clean up the outer part of the ear, like the guard hairs. And not try to clip them clean. The Baby oil trick is nice but you don't want to create more issues by adding moisture to her ear.
Don't twitch or gum chain her, it isn't necessary. If you can't clip her tonight, you can't! Maybe you can find someone at the show that would be willing to help you out.
If she has a problem with her face and head being touched i wouldn't twitch or gum chain her, this is going to make her even more head shy.
A quick fix my be in the form of a pair of scissors (rounded tip) have someone else have her head and feed her treats and you just pat and fuss in a calm manner for as long as it takes to get her settled, then i would slowly cut the hair , other than that get lots of cheap disposable razors and try that instead of scissors, i don't see how you can have a quick fix but i wish you luck :-)
hide the tools and take some apples with you.
In the future I suggest not trying to clip for a show on the day of the show...when you are under the gun...things will always go wrong.
Placing cotton balls in her ears to cut down the sound helps a lot of horses. Twitching is a good way to go, but you need the type that a single person can use to free up your hands. Go slowly...as you did..and she will get used to it.
When you are not clipping, play with her ears, pull on them and desensitize them, that way when clipping time comes, that part won't be an issue.
Try finishing clippers, they are smaller and easier to handle, plus they are quieter.
Twitching releases natural endorphins that actually calm the horse, naturally. Tranq-ing should be a last resort as far as I'm concerned.I have had horses I needed to tranq, so I'm not completely against it, just wait to the last to do it. Patience.
if you need a fix quickly, use scissors. be extra x10 careful, and make sure none of the hair falls in her ear. then you can do the work with clippers( her getting used to them over time)

I can't choose a barn to ride at!(read all details)?

I have 2 prospect barn/stables that i might be able to ride at.
i'm a VERY experienced rider and my neigbor(adult) has 3 horses at one of them and my close friend rides at the other.
My mom will let me ride at either, whichever is cheaper.
If i ride at the one with my neighbor's horses, then my mom wants me to ride one of my neighbor's horses(all are paint horses) that i've ridden many times before instead of the schooling horses they have(Paso Finos).
Or should i go to the place where my friend rides and have new experience riding different horses to get used to different sizes and techinques and ride in the same group as my friend?
i can't decide which would be better.
I'm thinking the 2nd one because its on thursdays and i might not have a ride for the 1st one on saturdays and mondays.
which should i go to?!
Answers:
Is the second barn a place to take actual lessons?
I think that at the second barn it might give you more of an oppertunity to learn and show your talent by getting involved in some shows. Plus you would be with your friend and on different horses-- which seems like it would create a fun and new experience every day. You could go on trail rides and critique each other- plus expand your horizon with some new horses. Riding the same old horses doesn't exactly help a rider improve-- it's learning to ride all different ones that makes a rider better.
I would go to the 2nd one. Like you said, they have many different horses and techinques. Try learning something new, something you have never done before. Plus you have a friend there to help you. =]]
Are you riding for fun or to learn and better your riding? Where will you be able to ride more often?
Riding with friends is always fun but can be distracting. Riding the same horse all the time gives yo a chance to better your riding style. But riding different horses gives you a lot of experience. Do you plan to show? Can these paints do the classes you want to show in? Will you be able to use them to show will the other barn have a horse that you could use for shows? There are still a lot of unanswered questions before you decide which barn to gallop through
go with the second. Riding many different horses makes you a better rider.
i would do the 2nd because from what youve said, i think it has more to offer and youll have a better experience there

I cant believe some people get away with this...?

I was asked to go look at a pony a friend had paid 1500 quid for as a 14.2 14yr old,100% ideal first pony.My god she is in her late twenties early 30s very poor,Mud fever upto her arm pits totally Lame,Anyway your getting the picture.I suggested firstly the vet to come out,then to stop the cheque,it seems they paid a small charge un cashed it immedately. this poor old mare has had a major trauma on one side broken Pelvis a shaft into her neck un shoulder,it makes me sick to the stomach thinking about the pain she must of been,Anyway shes been with me 6wks now has tripled her size,had Heather Dunning out (the best lady in the world if your a horse is in pain) is always going to be stiff but is very happy now retired.If we can keep her upright in winter she will stay till her last breath,Pain free un very much loved.I just wish we could put the Bast...s to sleep that keep doing this sort of thing.
Answers:
Such a horrific story, but it raises two questions.
FIRSTLY:
This mare is an old lady and was in obvious pain. I love horses and in fact all animals to distraction (well except scorpions) but I believe that one responsibility we have as owners is to decide when it is kinder to euthanase.
It is clear you have the facilities to be able to treat this old girl, but would it have been kinder to let her go?
SECONDLY:
If your friend is as inexperienced as she clearly appears from your blog, would it not be a good idea to scold her gently? Whilst deliberate abuse is reprehensible, lack of experience can also lead to abuse and neglect. Maybe you should advise your friend to invest first in some Horse Husbandry courses.
I live on the Continent and have been appalled by friends with horses who really do not know the basics of looking after these magnificent animals.
thats rly nyyc wot yoov dun nd that buh wots yur question?
is that a question? But, that is terrible.
That's outrageous, they should be put in jail for such cruelty. I'm so glad that you've taken her and you're giving her the care and treatment that she really needs. Old girl deserves some kindness.
I agree with you totally!
We have rescued many animals of all sorts: Dogs, Horses, Cats.and have rung the RSPCA so many times that I have lost count!
It's sickening to think what pain animals go through just because of man-kind!
Why don't people think before they act...animals have feelings too!
Well done for taking on this horse and giving her the love and care she needs!
x
I hope these people were reported to the authorities?
I am a retired horse wrangler/rancher/dealer from North Carolina. Unfortunately this goes on in the horse trade and there doesn't seem to be much we can do about it. As soon as you close one down another shoddy dealer comes along. Much of our time was dedicated to horse and pony rescue and rehabilitation. I commend you on your efforts. The best defense for this is an educated consumer. Never buy a horse until you as the buyer get it vetted by your OWN vet. Take no ones word for anything. Demand current medical documentation of recent shots, diseases and existing conditions ie. heaves, chronic colic, EPM, EPSM etc. If at anytime you as the buyer are unsure, pass up the deal.
Thank you on behalf of the honest Horse People .
Meanwhile many elderly people spend their lives looking at the four walls, seeing nobody except a care worker for 15 minutes a couple of times a day as they get them up and put them to bed.
Many are so lonely and miserable they hope to die as soon as possible.
Still, as long as we take care of the ponies eh?
I so agree with you and Bless You for saving this poor old soul. Horses have feelings and emotions too, and I am sure she is so relieved to have you taking care of her.
I also rescue horses, ponies, and dogs, and have an old gelding that had so many scars on him, a broken hip, and only a few teeth left. The vet aged him at 30 years, 5 years ago, and he is still going strong on watered down pellets, senior feed, and lots of love . He gets to roam free on my 40 acre ranch, although he doesn't go too far from the barn and the other horses. We have pretty severe winters here, so he comes in to the barn when the temps start changing.
Your special lady should do fine this winter, just make sure she gets plenty of hay, senior feed, fresh water, and cover. Great job!!!
P.S. Yes, I'd like to hang some of these imbeciles by their toenails, but unfortunately they continue to abuse animals, children, and senior citizens and get away with it. We can support those organizations that support and help the abused.
thats why you get a horse vetted before you buy them,glad your helping her and good luck
Horses are our gift.
A Miracle from god.
A friend from trust.
A present, a gift.
OMG the have issues!
Nobody should let a horse get in that state but it does show that if you are not experienced you need to take someone with you when buying a horse and have it vetted.
.Well done ,it is so refreshing to hear ,someone with a positive outlook and giving this pony a chance it so deserves,so many people would have put this pony down without a second thought,i also agree the person who did this should suffer the same as this little mare. once again well done and i hope she makes it. good luck
Poor little thing! It makes me mad that people do things like this to innocent animals!
*Barrel Racer*
Thank goodness you are looking after her now and she can end her days in peace.
When I was looking to buy a horse most were not as described and between 10-20% were unsound. Even having them vetted is no failsafe as I ended up with a horse with wobblers who was eventually put down. I now have one that was "rescued" from being put down but I got to know him before I bought him.
It's a minefield out there... so many dishonest people
thank god the mare has found someone to love and care for her poor poor pony
I'm sorry. Try senior feed with weight builder for the winter on her. Give her a blanket. I CANNOT BEALIVE PEOPLE GET AWAY WITH THIS CRUELTY! It sounds like someone was beating her. Oh my goodness, I just cried a little. Poor horse. Just love her and take her in a stall most winter with continous food. And a heated water bucket. Good luck!
-Lexie
I hate people that abuse horses, then sell them to the unsuspecting. It's wrong to abuse an animal, and then you go sell it and make someone else take care of the poor thing? People that abuse horses should be put in a small pen with an angry stallion...
She's lucky she has someone like you to take care of her, I wish you and her the best of luck.
first off can I congratulate you for being this pony's saviour and giving her a happy home in which she is loved and cared for.
I totally agree with you on the basis of how animals, not just horses, can be treated - it seems unjustified that you need a licence to drive a car or for something as trivial as a tv or radio - yet ANY old fool can own an animal.
These people are in my opinion the scum of the earth - an animal is a defenceless innocent creature that cant ask for help. It breaks my heart to see them being treated this way and I have the number for the ISPCA (Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) on speed dial on my phone and never resist in dialling it to help an animal in need or distress.
Again well done on rescuing this pony and I wish you all the best for in the future. Give her a hug for me!
xx
Omg that is sooooo cruel, people should be loacked away for doin stuff like that if they harm animals like protected 1s like bats we would get sent 2 court so ppl shud do that with horses!!good luck with the pony hope she has a better life with u!xxx
oooh my god
i am so glad that the pony is with you now and that it is on its way to being happy and healthy again.
There is a reason you get horses vetted b4 buying them!! If the horse was in that poor condition the ISPCA could have been contacted instead of rewarding the culprits by buying it from them!
Just think of it this way, you paid that money to rescue her, forget about the money and give her all the TLC you can. Good luck!

I cannot feel safe on a lunge line, is there a way to make me feel safe on one?

When someone else is in control of the horse I'm riding I just cannot make myself feel safe/comfortable so whenever the trainer tries to put me on one to help with something I freeze up. I think part of it is that I have always ridden horses who like to run, and therefore I don't feel like I can be alright unless I have the reins in my hands and /I'm/ in control of everything.
Does anyone have any idea how I could become more comfortable riding on a lunge line?
Answers:
Have you addressed this with your instructor? Really talked about how afraid you are feeling in that situation?
If you have and your instructor has not offered you help then I would ask your instructor if you could start with that extra rein as described before. Keep hold of a rein, not taunt enough to interfere with the the instructors queues but enough to where you feel you can take control if something were to happen. Have your instructor work with you this way until you feel confident enough to release that rein. YOU have to be willing to push yourself though, don't take the lesson and refuse to let go of it. If you have been going around for 5 minutes this way you need to tell yourself that you are safe and can push through the fear so that you can progress forward.
Good luck
I think it's just going to take time and trust in your trainer that he/she will not push you past your limit. Just start slow and progress when you are ready to, don't allow the trainer to pressure you if you aren't comfortable. I mean, you will have to be pushed a little to make progress, but as you do it more often, you will gain the confidence to move forward.
Try to sit back and relax. Or clip some reins to the halter you don't have to use them just so you know that you know that if the horse goes too fast you can pull back on the reins.
Well the running joke at my barn is that when someone is nervous, they should have a tequila shot.
Of course this is a joke and neither safe nor practical. ;)
However-- it does make you think. Why is it that we do things under the influence of alcohol that we wouldn't do otherwise??
B/c we lose our inhibitions that keep us in the 'control' mode.
I have this same problem of feeling 'unsafe' on a lunge. This is VERY obviously a controll issue of mine; I don't trust my instructor to keep my horse from running of, I feel like I'm not safe or in control w/o the reins, etc.
The best advise I can give you is that it takes practice practice practice!!!
I would sign yourself up for a lunge-lesson program with your instructor. 6 weeks or more!! 1 lunge lesson a week.
Start with walking. Do VERY basic games- arm stretches, leg stretches, touch ears, etc. Go back to basics. Fix your position. Work on deep breathing, posture, feeling footfalls. Work on doing a half halt through your seat, not the reins.
You're probably thinking "I already know that" which may be true!! Its not about learning those things. Its about learning to be OK with lunging.
Once you're OK at the walk to do a half-halt, then you'll know you're ready for trot. Start with your same excersises activities you did at walk, doing them at walk again. Pick your FAVORITE one that you're most comfortable with and do that at trot. WHen you've got that down and feel safe, add another excersise at trot, and so on.
Again, when you can successfully half-halt from trot to walk down to halt through your SEAT ONLY, then you can add bits of canter into your lunging.
This may take a week. This may take months.
Don't forget- this isn't about re-learning things you already knew. ITs about learning to be comfortable not being in control.

Here's my little side note: Being in constant fear of being out-of-control does not just effect your riding. It effects every part of your life.
I Have some serious control issues in life that I'm learning to let go of one by one.
Doing what I described above helped me be less controlling in my riding.
And learning to let go of THAT piece of controll has allowed me to slowly become more relaxed in my life. And it has been a wonderful thing!

Try the lunging techniques. Allow it to really work and keep at it with an instructor and horse you trust until you feel confident enough to do walk/trot/canter on the lunge, hands out in airplane position or on your hips. When you can do that (and cue all three gaits from your seat alone) then you are really able to relax and enjoy being 'one' with the horse.
until you get into your comfort zone, are you allowed to hold onto some mane or the front of the saddle? When I'm lunging someone, I tell them if they ever feel unsafe or feel like they're sliding off, to grab onto some mane and let me know when this happens so we can stop and correct the issue
try holding on to some mane. BREATHE and you can always keep a long rein on the horse and not come into contact with the horses mouth if need to also. good luck and hope this helps
There is some great advice on this site:
http://www.positivelyriding.com/home.htm...
Maybe you are pushing yourself too hard.
Part of the joy of riding is surrendering some control. We may think we are 'in control' of a horse, but in truth we are merely guiding him.
I'm a great advocate of Natural HorseManShip. Check out the link for advise (and order a free DVD which may inspire you):
http://www.parelli.com/content.faces...
Good luck...
Lunging is absolutely the best way for you to learn your seat and to move fluidly with the horse. Practice, and lots of it, with a trustworthy horse and your trainer will ease your fear.
When I first started lunging I was a nervous wreck too, however I grew to love it. I beg for someone to lunge me! It allows me to focus entirely on me, my seat and my ques.
Keep at it, trust your trainer and know that you will develop the best body posture lunging than you ever will with reins and irons.
It will take time but getting to know the horse your riding wil help %26 move at your own pace don't let anyone or anything set the pace for you. Hope I helped !
working with a trainer in line is a really good thing. it gives you time to work on balance and work with your legs. we used to train with our hands out straight at our sides jumping and all.do more ground work on line and start with walking walking walking.. then a small trot and you should loose the fears. remember it gives you a huge opportunity to use your legs!