Most of us put up with seemingly minor problems from our horses such as pushiness, laziness or resistance. We are more reluctant to put up with bucking, rearing and bolting. We address both minor and not-so-minor problems for the unbroke horse and for the experienced school horse.

What we can do

Use the round pen to establish yourself as the herd leader. Learn to use your energy, intention and body to develop the horse's attention, respect and pressure tolerance.

Use ground exercises with the halter and leadrope to teach the horse to respect your space and to free up his feet in all directions.

Use flag and tarp work to develop tolerance to enviornmental and touch issues.

Use Dressge patterns and ground poles to improve suppleness, coordination and adjustibility.

We have to remember that any rider can get injured at any time by any horse. Horses are flight animals and respond quickly and from instinct. We need to learn how to safely handle our horses, so that we can get most enjoyment from a very special relationship.