4 year olds

[xxxloz123]

Hi my horse is comming up to 4 next week, I backed and broke him as a 3 year year old last summer and spent the summer hacking him out once a week and long reining etc. Turned him away over winter and I brought him back agin feb/march. I have mainly been hacking him and getting him used to bigger traffic and a little bit in the field. I just wanted to know what other people are doing with theirs Im hoping to take him to a few local shows this summer just to have a bit of fun and get him used to being in a slightly more busy environment!

 

[Blaise]

Hi Loz, mine's 4 next week too Haven't backed her yet but will be this summer. I only 'officially' brought her on new years day but had been looking after her since september and up until they she's practically been unhandled so haven't wanted to rush her. I'm just doing lots and lots of groundwork and 'spook-proofing' stuff (walking over strange things like blue tarpaulin, wooden boards etc... walking through big puddles, waving flags & ribbons around, rustling plastic bags all over her, loud noises, and so on...) I'm also lunging her several times per week, getting her to go off voice commands and walking out in hand. We've also been doing some in-hand polework to add a bit of variety & get her used to coloured poles. She's had saddle & bridle on and is fine with me leaning across her but haven't actually got on yet. We've finally mastered loading into the box so will be going to shows within the next few weeks, just getting used to the atmosphere 1st time out and then hopefully a few in-hand classes. I aim to have her backed properly & riding within the next 2-3 months depending on how she goes but she's been so laid back & accepting of everything i've asked her so far i dont think we'll have too many problems

 

[xxxloz123]

Thanks I bet not much phases her then! Thats good I like to ask other people what they do with their youngsters as im constantly worrying Im doing to much on him, ( I dont think I am ) But I wouldnt be affended if someone said I was as he is my first youngster .
Good luck with you baby x