Re-backing question

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margaretb

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Please excuse the numpty question, another thread just got me thinking.

I have managed to find out a huge amount about Poppy's past from her previous owners who are all to glad to give me all the info I need - it transpires they as a last resort sold her through the markets, that is how she came to the dealer I got her from, so she is not quite what is written on the box, but that is by the by.

Anyway, basically, although she is coming up for 9, she's not done much, and so although is calm and charming, is green I suppose, another reason why she is a bit silly putting the saddle on possibly (saddle fitter coming on Tuesday) and why she is a bit excitable when we move off.

so the question is - could re-backing be an option, what would it involve and what might I be looking to pay - I might be able to get someone to do it here at home or would she be better going off to where I learnt to ride as they do back and school horses.

Thank you in advance!
 
Hi,
I take it you are riding her at the mo and you mean would it be worth starting at the beginning of her training as if she had not been broken in? I think if you are having issues then yes this is a very good idea but only if done by someone with enough experience. If you do not have the experience yourself then I think it would be a good idea to get someone else to do it whether it be at another yard or where she is now. This would depend on your finaincial situation and also your facilities.
Another factor is that she is nine and not three and already has problems and opinions so you are not starting with a blank sheet but also having to sort someone elses mess out aswell.
You say she is funny with the saddle and moving off and you are getting the saddle fitter which is a very good idea, but have you had her back checked by a sports massage therapist or physio and her teeth done too?
Where abouts in the country are you? I am in Lancs and do this sort of thing for people. My webpage is www.livetoevent.co.uk
Good luck and I hope it works out, she is a lucky horse to have found such a lovely and concerned owner!
 
To jeniwalker - she does not have problems as such, she was broken at 5 but then has not done alot, just hacked I think, she knows the basics; will "back up" on asking, when being led stops when I stop without being asked; when working in the arena I have made in the field halts beautifully, but her trot is rushed, and wont canter on the correct leg on each rein. Perhaps to use the term to reback is a bit strong, just some correct sympathetic schooling with someone who knows what they are doing.

Johnrobert, I have lunged her but she only goes on one rein!

I have been intouch with a friend this evening who has offered to ride Poppy as her own horse is lame. I think she could be just what I am looking for as she is experienced as well as sympathetic.

I have a dream to do dressage with her - nothing too flash - She's lovely!
 
Sounds like your friend might be a good option - IMO a bit of good consistent schooling would probably make a big difference. Best of luck :)
 
Hi :)

From what you have said before I would say she just needs schooling rather than re-backing.

Your friend riding her sounds great. Also you should have some lessons with her too, a good instructor will soon have you doing some dressage tests :)

You mentioned getting her saddle checked - I would also get her back and teeth checked too - if she is just starting to do 'proper' work it's worth getting everything checked out first.

So glad you decided to keep her.
 
Hi! Had her teeth checked when I had to get the vet out when she decided to eat a tree and couldn't spit it out! Her teeth required a little filing down but nothing drastic, so shall wait to see what the saddle man says!
 
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