North Country Rider Columns

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Hobby Horse: Think smart, plan, be safe

May 13, 2008 - For a lifelong horse owner, I’ve spent precious little time in any sort of equine sport, and I’ve yet to trek into high-mountain wilderness. But after 45-years of riding I consider myself sensible but not scared, prepared but not compulsively so. I’m neither wild woman nor wuss; the one people might turn to for a spare rein, perhaps, but not necessarily a tourniquet.

Words from the Wyse: Drop to trot lead changes

May 13, 2008 - This technique is an all-purpose maneuver that is ideal as a basic warmup exercise for any horse. It is not designed for any specific show ring application, nor does it cause any behavior problems that might have to be changed if you should wish to specialize your horse. 
It is an excellent exercise for the rider as well. The act of turning the horse at a gallop teaches the rider to accept the feel of the horse as it adjusts its balance to negotiate circles. Learning this dramatically enhances the rider’s balance, while the horse discovers that he must give his head at the gallop and not drop his shoulder on a curve.

What to do when those horse clothes get dirty

May 13, 2008 - With riding season hitting full stride, it won’t be long before you’ll decide it’s time to do some laundry. Not for your clothes — your horse’s. And unless you’ve got a separate heavy-duty washing machine set aside for cleaning blankets and related items, you may be in for trouble if you try to wash horse clothes at home.

Tack room

May 13, 2008 - IN THE PINK …

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