Hunting for newby horse + rider?

[TheDiamondoStandard]

Hello,

I have been riding for 3 years, during which I have "tamed" a wild horse everyone has told me I need to sell! He is now a very well behaved horse, however is still rather spooky - although he won't bolt he just refuses to move anywhere. We have been working on our XC however still he often spooks at the jumps, but we have been making huge progress with this recently.

I realy want to go hunting next season, but was told to never hunt him when I got him - but he has changed so much! (He used to rear/buck) I have a friend or two who would go with me, but would it be wise to go hunting for the first time on what could become a nightmare horse?

Thank you for reading!

TheDiamondoStandard

 

[Rosie Round The Hills]

How is he riding in company, in groups, galloping in company, being held behind when others ride away, doing gates?

How is he on fun rides?

 

[JenHunt]

As JackyandRosie has said - how is he in company?

otherwise - if you feel that you've got his trust, and that he's improved so much then there's no harm in trying it. Introduce it slowly if you can - turn up to a meet, and then hack home, next time follow on at the back for ten minutes etc... then work in stages up to a full day hunting.

you;ll find that once he's got the idea of following other people he'll get a lot more confident with the jumping and will soon find it fun.

It's also a good idea to speak to your local hunt and to join in with their fun rides, hound exercises etc to get him and you used to things while they are still quiet at this time of year!

 

[TheDiamondoStandard]

Thanks lots! He is brilliant with other horse, although will never take the lead - it's following other horses over jumps where he gets strong! He definately trusts me though, and wants to help out!

Thank you very much