Ideas needed please!!

mattilda

mattilda

Well-Known Member
Joined
26 September 2007
Messages
4,942
Location
cheshire
Visit site
My horse has had around 6 weeks off due to a bad back. I had the saddle fitters out today and it could take 4 weeks for it to be done. He is heeeuuuge despite limited grazing and hay soaked forever.
We both hate lunging although I will have to do some obviously. What else can I do to exercise him without us both going insane?
Oh and before someone suggests it, bareback riding is out. I am too old and I struggle to stay on sometimes with a saddle!!
 
Wouldn't really fancy trying that he isn't a safe conveyance when I ride him.
blush.gif
'
I could try long reining...I could do with losing a few (well a lot actually) pounds as well. He may well come home on his own though.
grin.gif
 
I do have a school but he tends to go a bit crazy if I try to loose school. It tends to turn into a bit of a scary keep him away from the fence in case he jumps it session!! He would be burning calories though I suppose!!
As you can see I have a real problem with my crazy chestnut.
frown.gif
 
Must admit, my big fella would go over the fence but other smaller horses ive got loose school fine. Oh dear your have to think of something else - or hope the next few weeks pass really fast - good luck. Hope your new saddle is ok !
grin.gif
 
I have tried that but he gets bored and jumps the fence! If I put a headcollar (grazing muzzle) on he would hang himself. He is a real problem.
mad.gif

I turn him out for 2 or 3 hours then bring him in with a small well soaked net. He gets a handful of Alfa a Lite to mix supplements in.
I think I'm going to have to grit my teeth and lunge or long rein. Deep joy!! Thanks guys for the thoughts though. Keep 'em coming.
 
I know you both hate lunging, but could you try lunging over poles and small jumps?

I know that my horse's physio has in the past suggested certain pole/raised poles/small jumps that she felt helped stretch the horses back out and strengthen it? (Oh, on consideration I think she said to long rein over the jumps so you could control speed better).

Also, does you horse have any other bugbears which you could use the time to sort out (not standing to be mounted, hates clipping, etc). And of course long reining out - if he is good or you can get someone else in need of exercise to come with you.

Good luck!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top