Covid and Mud Puddles
January 21st, 2022 by admin
The following are a few thoughts I’ve put together in the past year as I’ve witnessed what Covid has and continues to do to our young people. I’m certainly no psychologist so these thoughts come from a common sense prospective; from what I’ve seen and how it is affecting those I’m trying to teach. This is not intended to set off any sort of argument; it’s simply the truth and something for all to give serious thought too.
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Clinic Woes
March 3rd, 2020 by admin
Have you ever seen an advertisement for a Horse clinic that peeked your interest to the point of thinking you might want to sign up? I have and I will be the first to admit that even though I’ve participated in MANY clinics, I honestly don’t think I’m a good participant. Read the rest of this entry »
Riding Lessons and Hair Cuts
February 29th, 2020 by admin
So you’re thinking of taking some riding lessons either for yourself or your children. The family down the road has a teenage daughter who says she will teach you for free. It all sounds great until you take your first lesson and her horse takes off with you and now you’re scared to death to even think of trying again. Read the rest of this entry »
What Vertigo Taught Me
May 15th, 2018 by admin
I recently had my first ever episode of vertigo, not something I would wish on anyone. It’s been three weeks now and the spinning has stopped but I’m now having some balancing issues. Since the doctors say I shouldn’t drive or do any riding until this completely goes away it has left me with some time to think and I have some thoughts I want to share about balance.
Dont Settle for What It Is
January 16th, 2017 by admin
I do not like the sentence, "IT IS WHAT IT IS". Yet people use it all the time so I must just be in the minority. If you say these words to me concerning your horse then I will translate it to mean that you're saying: "It is what you have settled for".
I Wish This Were a Fairytale
September 11th, 2016 by admin
You have the potential to mold your horse into whatever you choose; so what are you doing with that potential?
Because I own a boarding stable I’m privileged (perhaps it’s more of a curse) to watch owners interact with their horses in all sorts of ways. Now before you start thinking that I’m some judgmental horse trainer who thinks my way is the only way to handle a horse, take a deep breath and just hear me out.
It’s No “Treat” to Write This
January 25th, 2016 by admin
An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Do you give treats to your horse from your hand? Today’s tip is going to offend some of you but I hope you will read on with an open mind; willing to learn some facts on why I rarely feed them to my own horses.
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Trailer Loading and Carrots
September 25th, 2015 by admin
Don’t fear failure, fear accomplishing nothing! This tip today is focused on women and how they allow their fear to get in the way of successful progress with their horse.
Truth or Lie?
March 21st, 2015 by admin
Most every good lie has a little ounce of truth hidden in it somewhere. Ask anyone who has ever purchased a horse and been disappointed. Truth is, the horse industry has been plagued with many good, lying, sellers ready to make you the deal of your life.
Does Your Horse Think You’re Boring?
October 24th, 2013 by admin
If your horse could talk would he say that he looks forward to spending time with you or would he nicker over to his pasture buddies that you are the most boring person in the world?
Cross Ties
November 28th, 2012 by admin
Cross Ties….Hum, a lot of us use them but do we really need too? The more I work with horses the more they show me.
Chew On This
November 28th, 2012 by admin
Two things that should inspire you to strive harder to improve your riding skills: Watching those who ride better then you and watching those who don’t.
Just Because You Looked, You Don’t Have to Buy
May 20th, 2011 by admin
I recently went to look at a horse who was advertised as bomb proof and one who would make a great lesson prospect. The first thing I did was to bend over and try to pick up her feet only to quickly be given an excuse as to why she wasn’t that willing. I immediately noted a hint of defense in the seller’s voice but moved along with my evaluation.
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Grooming Tip
May 20th, 2011 by admin
Has the sun dried up your horses mane and tail leaving them dull and frizzy? Here is a simple solution that will add luster and shine and actually help repair and nourish the hair.
Learn To Back
May 20th, 2011 by admin
I am a firm believer that teaching your horse to back up in hand is one of the best things you can do. Now before you think, "My horse can already do this" and disregard reading further……humor me for just a second.
Someone’s Calling
May 20th, 2011 by admin
Cell phones – love em, hate em, and how do they effect our horse? A rule at our stable is if you go out for a trail ride you must take your phone just in case of emergency.
Chew On This
March 1st, 2011 by admin
Your horse will never be impressed with how much you know until he knows just how much you care.
Stop Nagging
March 1st, 2011 by admin
Something I see nearly every time I watch someone work their horse in a round pen or on a long lung line is the constant nagging of the horse when he is already doing what you've asked him to do.
Milk Jug Trick
March 1st, 2011 by admin
Teaching a horse that bites to stop can be very challenging and frustrating, especially if you've actually been bitten and know first hand just how bad that can hurt.
