speedy pony advice

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mandy@zoo

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Hi, Took our new pony out today to do hunter trials (pony 12.2 arab x and 8yr old relatively novice daughter can canter and jump 2ft6etc ).Did clear round brilliantly calm slow trotty pace, then did 1ft 6 course and first 10 jumps no problem then on home run of 4 jumps, pony decided to go from trot to gallop towards finish gate and daughter fell off (unhurt). Pony currently ridden in snaffle bit and no aids. We are going to get more private jumpinhg lessons to tackle problem and control, but wondered what others suggest about maybe a different bit as although she tried to pull him back she couldnt (gonna work with turning method also). Need to have safe controlled pony in fields and would greatfully take on any offered advice, Thanks Mandy
 
Can't help with different bits, gadgets etc but would advise putting a small experienced adult on from time to time to remind pony whats right and whats not. ie in this case somebody that is strong enough/experienced enough to be able to pull pony up so he doesn't learn that he can get away with having a nice fun gallop across fields whenever he feels like it :-)
 
Henbug said:
Can't help with different bits, gadgets etc but would advise putting a small experienced adult on from time to time to remind pony whats right and whats not. ie in this case somebody that is strong enough/experienced enough to be able to pull pony up so he doesn't learn that he can get away with having a nice fun gallop across fields whenever he feels like it :-)
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this ^^^^^^^^^^

hope this hasn't knocked your daughters confidence too much.

neck straps are brill for kids. makes them feel bit more secure n mighht help if she feells she is loosing her balance as thats often when it falls apart for children.

if its ridden in a snaffle and she was fine before i wouldn't rush to change bits - i think your idea of lessons and looking at different ways of pulling a horse up (turning etc) is best place to start.
 
Agree with the schooling and small adult, ponies need reminders of what's right fairly often lol. A pelham with double reins at shows could work and a snaffle at home. Kids can pick them up very quickly with plenty of flat work practice with two reins, we use a pony in a pelham and he's super tiny so only kids can ride him.
 
Thanks for the advice, might have to put myself on him (and hopefully not kill him !!) if he starts misbehaving again.Until then got some private jumping/ how to stop pony lessons starting xx
 
Changing his bit should be last resort.... training is the way forward, plus a ride out with a confident rider who isn't afraid to tell him off now and then.

Be persistent, you'll get there ;)
 
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