On the Hoof
Well-Known Member
Hi, some while ago I posted about my new and first horse and apparent lack of brakes. I thought I would update those kind enough to give me advice. So firstly I did not put her in working livery as I couldn't bear to share her or possibly ruin her, even though my then current instructor advised that this was the only way to school her (she had been a happy hacker for 8 years and was quite stiff). my YO was fine about it and has been so helpful in giving me advice etc. I changed my instructor and me and my new mare had weekly lessons, nevertheless she wasn't always tolerant of my mistakes and did tank with me a couple of times and on another occasion galloped off with me and we only stopped when I executed a one rein stop. After that I changed the bit to a rubber Pelham which she seemed perfectly happy with and I too had extra lessons on a riding school horse , on the lunge with no reins, to try and ensure I didn't hurt my girl by hanging on the reins.
We have also done lots of groundwork, lunging, spook busting etc and I have to say she is just delightful. So we still have some way to go, but my girl nickers when she hears my car, walks nicely with me to and from the field, no longer panics at my mistakes and I have learned that she does react to my seat and knows perfectly well when I want her to stop..having said that she does get very excited sometimes and can be very strong so I keep the Pelham for hacking, it gives me an added sense of security! I love this girl so much and every day is a delight to be with her. I have to pinch myself each morning to check that I really am that lucky...I think she is my soulmate and I cannot believe she was the very first horse I looked at! Thankyou for reading my self indulgent post and sorry for the length..I believe Its customary to offer refreshments for those that get this far..so it's rhubarb crumble and custard with sweet dessert wine for those that made it.
We have also done lots of groundwork, lunging, spook busting etc and I have to say she is just delightful. So we still have some way to go, but my girl nickers when she hears my car, walks nicely with me to and from the field, no longer panics at my mistakes and I have learned that she does react to my seat and knows perfectly well when I want her to stop..having said that she does get very excited sometimes and can be very strong so I keep the Pelham for hacking, it gives me an added sense of security! I love this girl so much and every day is a delight to be with her. I have to pinch myself each morning to check that I really am that lucky...I think she is my soulmate and I cannot believe she was the very first horse I looked at! Thankyou for reading my self indulgent post and sorry for the length..I believe Its customary to offer refreshments for those that get this far..so it's rhubarb crumble and custard with sweet dessert wine for those that made it.