|
|
Discussion on Horse Training Advice
|
| Author |
Message |
Member:
Dtranch
|
Posted on Friday, May 7, 2004 - 2:59 pm:
I am an accomplished horse trainer in Westerm Indiana specializing in new starts and WP. I have worked with horses most of my life but have no "formal" training. Until recently, most of training was on my own horses. I have begun raising and training my own for sale and have also started on a few outside horses. I am now 50 years old and still have a passion to do this for a living. Looking for any advice, tips, or psyciatrist recommendations. Probably a pipe dream but wanted feedback from all you good horse people. I know some of you are professionals and would like to hear some basic advice for getting started, etc. Thanks for letting me expand on my dream.
DT
|
Member:
Cowgrl
|
Posted on Friday, May 7, 2004 - 4:06 pm:
Hi Dennis,
Here's a question for you. I have a young mustang that I'm training as a trail horse. I know you WP riders like a nice slow walk, however, I'm interested in a faster (3.5 - 4 mph) walk when going down the trail. My little guy is fairly slow but I know he is capable and will go faster if pushed. I would like to know the best way to get him to step out all the time so I'm not wearing out my legs keeping him going. Also, I don't want to desensitize him to my leg at the same time. One good thing though is he's not a tailgater and will jog ahead if asked.
Thanks for any advice. Good luck with your dream. Hope it pans out.
Holly Z
|
Member:
Hwood
|
Posted on Friday, May 7, 2004 - 9:47 pm:
Dear Dennis,
Go for it. Be true to yourself and do the most loving thing for yourself and for others (both people and horses) by honing and using the gifts God has placed within you. If you are looking to make a bundle of money, (which I don't sense from you) then you might be going into the wrong business,  but if you are looking for fulfillment and for a way to help horses and their people, then I think you may be going into the right field. From all of your posts, it appears that you certainly have patience and a solid, sensible, systematic way of teaching. Best wishes as you explore all of your options.
|
Member:
Dtranch
|
Posted on Monday, May 10, 2004 - 3:05 pm:
Holly ... If I could spend my days with horses, and horse people, and still manage to pay bills and eat, I would be in heaven. Big money has never been a factor in the equation. The sounds, and smells of the horse world are part of those gifts from God you mentioned. Thanks a bunch for your comments.
DT
|
Member:
Dtranch
|
Posted on Monday, May 10, 2004 - 3:16 pm:
Holly Z.
I use a riding crop with a constant tapping on rump until he picks up pace, then immediately quit tapping. As he slows, I repeat. Its more of a nuicance than anything but be firm if necessary. Use this in conjunction with your desired cue, and eventually the crop will no longer be needed.
I would vary the pace from time to time as sometimes, the slower walk is desired and we don't want the horse to get into a pattern of either. As with all phases of riding, be proactive and mix a little work with the fun. Hope this helps, and thanks for your support.
DT
|
Member:
Cowgrl
|
Posted on Tuesday, May 11, 2004 - 1:21 pm:
Hi Dennis. Thanks for the suggestions. What I did with an appy mare I had who also was as slow as molasses in January was tap her behind the girth with the end of the rein. It took her about 3 hours to realize what I wanted from her and she turned into a walking fool. She'd outwalk anyone out there when she was allowed to lead. I will try both with mustang dude.
HOlly
|
Member:
Quatro
|
Posted on Tuesday, May 11, 2004 - 11:29 pm:
Dear Dennis, my advice to you is definately go for it. I only wish you were closer so I could use your services. I moved to Iowa from Arizona, I know, most people do it the other way around, it's a husband thing. Anyhow I achieved a dream I had by buying a farm and turning a hog house into a dog house. Everyone I talked to said that people in farm country don't want to pay to have someone watch their dogs, or train them for that matter. Well, 10 years later it is great to have them say " I never would have believed it" We now own a successful pet resort, I have more dog training than I need, and am making money using a wonderful gift that I was given. Start small and re-invest in your dream, soon you will reap the rewards of being confident in your abilities. Good Luck!
|
Member:
Dtranch
|
Posted on Wednesday, May 12, 2004 - 8:25 am:
Susan ...
Thanks so much for the inspiring words .. you may have just put me over the top. Your own story is making me believe that I can start with my 6 horse barn and a lot of hard work and actually get somewhere. One thing for certain, I will never lose the love of horses and the joy of sharing knowledge and experience with horse people, if not for a living, at least for a "life"
Thanks ... DT
|
Member:
Sailor7
|
Posted on Sunday, May 7, 2006 - 7:24 am:
I have teens who want to get into horse training more. Which trainers would you recommend? I saw that Parelli had some home study courses. Something laid out with additional readings would probably be good for teens. Do any other trainers have courses like this? Or have courses that are easier for beginners?
I know reading widely would be good, but I think by having a system to follow would motivate them and they would probably be more successful starting out. I thought perhaps some training courses might be easier to do on your own than others.
One thing about Parelli is that he is coming to our area in the fall. I thought my teens might like to go to a clinic.
Thanks,
Dee
|
Member:
Hwood
|
Posted on Sunday, May 7, 2006 - 9:58 am:
Hi, Dee,
How much experience do your teens have? Have they had horsemanship lessons with real "hands-on" experience before now? (sorry if you've told us and I just don't remember)
There are so many mistakes (some deadly) that can be made when we start out with training before we have had lots of experience with horse health, behavior, riding, etc.
If your teens have all ready gotten a good understanding through lessons and apprenticing with knowledgeable horsemen/women, then my recommendation for safe, solid foundation training of horses is Clinton Anderson. Not only does he have extremely specific, step-by-step video series on training from the ground and up, he is enjoyable to hear and is centrally located in the U.S. and does multiple clinics across the country. We should study LOTS of different training methods and as many different kinds of horses as possible, but we should settle on one basic consistent method of training.
Parelli is good for the lst level as Parelli training helps folks gain confidence in working around horses, but I have met several people who tout Parelli, yet have little to no riding ability or true horse knowledge, and many have gotten hurt trying to ride their horses bridleless before they are ready.
There is no substitute for "learning by doing" . . . one can "head-learn" about training and, yet, know little about how to safely and effectively individualize that training . . . and the irony is that we often learn by making mistakes . . . it's just that making mistakes with a 1000 lb animal are not the same as making mistakes on a school assignment. It's an exceptional person who can be an effective trainer without having put in TIME and lots of bumps and bruises (or worse).
If, in your area, there is a certified instructor who also does training, I suggest that your teens spend several months or years learning by apprenticing before attempting to train on their own. I feel like a bit of a hypocrite here, because I got my first horse when I was 13, and all I knew was that I loved horses with a passion and that my heroes (Roy Rogers, Annie Oakley, The Lone Ranger, Zorro, etc.) all usually galloped their horses, and often ran and jumped on their horses from behind and over the rump before they headed off across the plains . . . Over the past (hmmm . . . let's see . . . I'm now 51) errrrr, 38 years, I have learned that there is a lot more to training horses safely than just having a passionate love for the individual and corporate animal . . . but the love is the most necessary ingredient.
|
Member:
Ilona
|
Posted on Sunday, May 7, 2006 - 10:03 am:
Hi, I strongly recommend the Parelli method. Everything is built upon the last step. They are easy to manage, the results are good and you end up with a fabulous horse.
There is also John Lyons, Clinton Anderson, Monty Roberts. Each and ever-one has important things to add. The greater your exposure to these different trainers and others who practice natural horsemanship the more you will be able to take what works for you and your horse. On another thread I recommended for you www.davidlichman.com as he does training via video on an ability to pay basis. He's excellent and a very good human being too.
|
Member:
Kathleen
|
Posted on Sunday, May 7, 2006 - 10:12 am:
Dee,
There are a few trainers who have home study courses - Parelli and Dennis Reis are two that I like. I have used the old (first edition) Parelli home study course, but the new one is supposed to be much better (they continue to progress in their learning and teaching also). And the thing I like about Parelli is that he certifies trainers when they get to level 3 and they are scattered throughout the US and other parts of the world. I have been to two clinics put on by one of his "certified professionals", and they are able to test you and pass you on to the next level (or not, if you're not ready) or you can send in videos to Parelli and they will evaluate them and let you know what you need to work on. It is a very good system for home study and if you have more than one teen, they will enjoy working together and helping each other or just working alone. Parelli clinics are fun. Some people think they are just a show, but they are just trying to show you that you can do anything that they can do (it's not rocket science), and they are there to help you do it. They take the 'mystery' out of training and teach you to just become a partner with your horse, and you can take it as far as you want. I'm sure there are other trainers out there who can do the same thing, I just have experience with Parelli and am very impressed.
Kathleen
|
Member:
Kathleen
|
Posted on Sunday, May 7, 2006 - 10:34 am:
Dee,
BTW, Parelli emphasizes safety above all things and as far as I know does not encourage 'bridleless riding' until or if you are ready for it. He teaches you to know your horse and that there are times when you can 'feel' when your horse is responsive enough to attempt certain activities. At one clinic, Linda emphasized that she would not even get on the new horse she was working with unless she felt it was safe (left brained). They help you to learn to read your horse. I started riding 'bridleless' about 10 years ago (before I knew anything about Parelli), because the dressage training I was getting was making her rely too much on my hands. That was partly me and partly my trainer. My solution was to gradually release her head and progressed to using just a string around her neck. I don't advise this for everyone (and Parelli certainly doesn't either - for some reason his name has become synonymous with bridless riding). Just go to some clinics by several different clinicians, if possible, watch videos, and try to get past the 'show' part of it and down to what is actually being taught and if it feels right for you.
Kathleen
|
Member:
Hwood
|
Posted on Sunday, May 7, 2006 - 10:57 am:
Glad to hear it, Kathleen and Ilona . . . my experience with Parelli proponents has not been very postive, and I'm sure the same can be said of many of the "name-brand" trainers "out there."
Glad to know that safety has become a key emphasis.
|
Member:
Jerre
|
Posted on Sunday, May 7, 2006 - 11:12 am:
After a lifetime around horses, I started with Parelli when I found myself with a 3yo. I'm a very straight-line thinker, and found the step-by-step levels system easy to follow (though not always easy to accomplish!) I think the Parelli system is the best out there for building on itself, for giving you what you need to fill in "the holes" that can happen when you self-guide.
The first three levels teach people. As in, teach people how to understand and be good with horses. Of course, your horse is trained at the same time, but it's not until after Level 3 that Parelli students are advised to consider actively teaching horses.
Clinton Anderson has some really clear and specific videos, but they don't build quite as well on themselves. He also advocates more technical solutions and his horses tend to be allowed fewer opinions. It's eye-opening in Parelli to discover that horses can have quite a lot to say about the relationship, and the system encourages you to "cause" rather then "make" your horse want to be with you. It seems to me that more humor is encouraged in Parelli than in other systems -- and I have to admit, it was new to me. And very rewarding! It's balanced my straight-line approach, in a good way.
There's not a lot of riding instruction, so people with no riding experience might be advised to get some time in on good school horses with any kind of instructor who advocates gentle techniques and a balanced seat. Some conventional riding teaching will be in conflict with natural horsemanship, but you have to get basically secure before you can go very far with the riding parts of the program.
In Level 1 you don't go past trot. In Level 2 you have simple changes at canter.
Also, if you see Pat at one of the tour stops, remember that this is a show, not a clinic. It will be exciting and entertaining and inspirational, but it's set up to show you the maximum that can be accomplished. There will be some "how-to," but mostly it will explain the principles and then show off some really cool horsemanship.
Endorsed instructors are all over the country, and that's where you'll get your actual hands-on instruction. Or you can audit. Many people never get hands-on instruction until somewhere in Level 2.
Also, Parelli is very big as a business right now,and if your teens want to make a career of it, having a Parelli endorsement (it's a lot of work and investment to become an instructor!) means having a big effective network behind you.
There's a ton of information about the instructors' program at www.parelli.com.
Jerre
|
Member:
Lhenning
|
Posted on Monday, May 8, 2006 - 2:30 pm:
There are TV programs on RFD-TV, if you get that channel on your satellite or cable. You can see Parelli, Clinton Anderson, Dennis Reis, and many more without having to purchase the (rather expensive) videos. I have a DVR recorder with my satellite and record the programs while I'm working so I can watch them at my leisure. I have learned so much and did not have to spend any more than I am already, plus I can fast forward through the commercials. Parelli's wife does a little segment on riding skills that have been helpful. I pick up something from each trainer, then put the information together. As one other poster mentioned, you need to tailor the training to your horse and to your own methods. This way I can pick up several ideas on how to approach an issue, then find what fits my style best. Some things work exactly as they show on the program and some things just do not. Along with reading and working with an instructor, this is how I learned to train my horse, but it is a long-term project and has taken years of work.
Linda
|
Member:
Brock
|
Posted on Monday, May 8, 2006 - 5:10 pm:
I have to add my two cents here, too. I got back into horses 10 years ago after many years of being totally away from them (I know, I know). Anyway, when I started up again I picked up all my old habits of just get on 'em and go. I just didn't know any better. Three years ago I stumbled upon the Parelli Horsemanship Program and it has totally won me over. Linda Parelli does most (or all) of the new Level 1 and Level 2 DVDs and it is much, much better. Pat Parelli is the guru of natural horsemanship and knows his stuff, but I find he talks a bit too much and too fast whereas Linda puts in in plain, simple terms that is easy to follow and understand. Never before would I have thought it could be just as much fun to play games on the ground with your horse as it is to ride, AND I think my horse enjoys it too! (A good clue is the fact he comes to me if he sees me with the halter). The program has taught me safety, common sense, patience, and most of all, to have respect for my horse and he for me using a kind, gentle approach. There are many excellent programs and clinicians out there but the Parelli program is the one for me.
|
Member:
Sailor7
|
Posted on Saturday, May 13, 2006 - 3:55 pm:
Thanks everyone for the advice! Sometimes I can't find my way back to my original post to thank everyone. I get the posts in my mailbox.
I think we are going to sign up for the Parelli Level I and the Savvy Club since Parelli is coming to SC in the Fall. We would like to go, and the free tickets is a good incentive.
I went to other websites of trainers, but I didn't see that anyone else had a course that was as systematic. I would think my teens need something that goes step by step and explains the basics. They have both read a lot, and it would be good to have something that reviews and ties things together.
I just finished reading a book by Mark Rashid, and loved it. I wish he had a course.
Thanks again,
Dee
|
Member:
Erika
|
Posted on Sunday, May 14, 2006 - 11:05 am:
Dee, it took me a while to figure out how to find my threads too. Here's a hint: On the menu on the left, click on "last day posts", or "last week posts". It narrows everything down to currently discussed threads. MUCH easier than trying to remember where the heck you posted that last question.
Have fun with the courses.
|
Member:
Sailor7
|
Posted on Sunday, May 14, 2006 - 4:52 pm:
Erika,
I also realized that if I subscribed to threads that I can click on the link at the bottom of the email. All this high tech stuff that is baby's play for my teens. Takes me awhile! LOL
Thanks for the hints though. I appreciate them!
Dee
|
Member:
Lorid
|
Posted on Monday, May 15, 2006 - 2:28 pm:
Hi all. I would like to know the best way to overcome general shyness and head shyness in a 2-y.o. gelding. I just got him a week ago and he does not have a mean bone in his body (from all accounts), but he is sooo scared. Obviously, he has a trust issue (this was told to me by his previous owner of nine months) and before that, he was in the pasture with little human contact. He is extremely curious of me and comes right up to me to sniff, but as soon as I slowly put out my hand to stroke him, he tends to back away into a corner, looking at me all the while. Some days he is more approachable than others. He only allows me to catch him when working or being turned loose. What is the best way to handle this situation or is it just time and repetition and consistency that he needs?
|
Member:
Hwood
|
Posted on Monday, May 15, 2006 - 2:40 pm:
Amen to your final statement, Lori.
Lots of handling in a non-threatening manner . . . lots of praise and a really matter-of-fact attitude should help. I don't know your horse, and you can tell better what he will accept. Usually, basic round pen work (Lyons's methods have always helped me -- make the easy thing hard and the hard thing easy) can work him through his avoidance. On the other had, if you aren't in any hurry, time, patience, consistency, and kindness can go a long way.
|
Member:
Lorid
|
Posted on Monday, May 15, 2006 - 2:53 pm:
Holly....I am in no hurry and I can definitely provide him with all the things you describe in your last sentence, but will this trait resolve once he trusts me or will he tend to be this way forever. His previous owner said it took awhile for him to trust her too, but once he did, she could do anything with him (he apparently does not like men). My concern is that the people training him are men and the other day (I wasn't there) my trainer turned him out for awhile and had great difficulty catching him. It took two people (both men) to do it. I went to see him later that day and that was the day he was hands off. Apparently, it was traumatic for him. What can I do?
|
Member:
Kathleen
|
Posted on Monday, May 15, 2006 - 3:12 pm:
If you are sensing that it is traumatic for him to be handled by men, then he shouldn't be handled by a man unless the man knows how to be non-predatory. Sometimes it is just the difference in the way a person approaches him that can make a big difference, especially since he already had a problem. It doesn't sound like they were very patient with him. I know trainers say they don't have time to wait him out and help him be more trusting, but to me patience is part of training. Is there any way for you to be there when they handle him?
Kathleen
|
Member:
Lorid
|
Posted on Monday, May 15, 2006 - 3:22 pm:
Yes, Kathleen, that is exactly what I plan to do. My trainer waits for me and we do it together. But on this particular day, my trainer had a wedding and was pressed for time. I could not get to the barn until later that afternoon, and this is what happened. And you are so right, trainers sometimes are LOW on patience (which I don't understand) anyway, this is the case here. I don't want to get into a scuffle with him (or imply that I know better than he) so I have to approach the subject with caution and be tactful.
Thank you so much for your advice!
Lori
|
Member:
Hwood
|
Posted on Monday, May 15, 2006 - 3:46 pm:
Lori,
One thing about horses that is a blessing is that they are forgiving, and while it may set the trust issue back a bit, your horse can still learn to trust IF he isn't forced into a corner on a regular basis. Now, if your trainer has a graduation next week, and another wedding the following week, and a confirmation the next week, and a doctor's appointment the following week . . . then the problem with your youngster learning to trust will only get worse.
He's only two . . . does he have to be at the trainer's right now? Are you on a timeline with showing? If not, and if you see the problem getting worse, bring him home and give him some time. As far as the trust issue with males, your gelding may need to work with men in the future, so his experiences with men should be the best they can be right now.
|
Member:
Sailor7
|
Posted on Monday, May 15, 2006 - 7:32 pm:
Alden,
I don't know why I didn't think of it before...but I went to Clint Anderson's site after you mentioned him...and he has complete kits to learn how to train horses, too. I am going to look over his materials. My husband is a fan of Clint Anderson from his TV show on RFDTV.
Thanks again,
Dee
|
Member:
Amara
|
Posted on Monday, May 15, 2006 - 7:36 pm:
as a professional trainer for a long time i learned that if i cant do it right dont do it... so the only thing your trainer accomplished that day was to freak your horse out even more... he probably wont be too scared of men in general, but he definately got scared by the situation he was in, and that can lead to a templated scared reaction anytime he's in that situation... can you get him home as holly suggested or work out an arrangement with the barn he's at so that he doesnt have those experiences right now?
as far as him not wanting to be touched, why bother touching him? touching is a human thing, but not necessarily a horse thing-except with horses they trust, or in a first contact situation... you're not in either of those situations, so dont touch unless you have to...ideally he'd just hang out in a field with shelter until this issue was overcome...if you dont rush it, it wont take long at all..
when i first got my arab 3 years ago he was unapproachable...i let him sit in the large grassy paddock with my pony (who trusts me) for a week before i even attempted to get near him... the first day i went to get near him (notice i had no intention of touching) it took me 5 hours... he'd run off when i was 100ft away.. i just patiently followed and gave him time to release and chill every time he'd let me get a little bit closer.. he had absolutely no pressure tolerance for human closeness at all, so i had to give lots and lots of time for releasing.. i kept the whole ordeal as low pressure as possible.. i never chased him or waved my hands or anything, but i knew that in his situation if i let him totally settle without my having gotten close i would only be reinforcing his templated reaction of getting as far away from humans as possible as the correct response...
finally he let me get up next to him... and for the next 20 minutes or so i just stood there... (yep-20 minutes i'm not kidding..).. then i left.. i never once tried to touch him...
the next day it took me about a half hour to get up next to him... and the day after that about 10 minutes... after that i spent a couple of days just briefly touching his neck (at the withers only), and then eventually progressed to stroking his whole neck, halter, etc...i finally put him in the round pen, set up a couple of central nervous system/parasympathetic system responses and by the 3rd day he was coming up to me, and has ever since... i've never ONCE used a food reward as it contradicts the role i'm trying to put myself in...
well, the moral of that story is if you could put your horse in a situation where he doesnt have to be rushed you could much more easily change his opinion of humans
good luck
mel
|
Member:
Ajudson1
|
Posted on Tuesday, May 16, 2006 - 9:16 am:
Lori
You say you just got this horse and he's only 2? And he's off to a trainer already? My thoughts are "whoa, hold on"...I've heard that it sometimes takes months for a horse to adjust to his new home. Your guy is not only in a new home, but being trained by new people in his life too. Is the trainer coming to him, or is he being loaded up daily and hauled to a trainer?
I think just letting him be for awhile is the best thing you could do for him now. And following Mel's advice above also. He's young yet, think of it like putting your child in 2nd grade right after daycare without preschool, kindergarden, or 1st grade!
good luck and enjoy your new horse!!
|
Member:
Lorid
|
Posted on Tuesday, May 16, 2006 - 9:17 am:
Hi All. Thank you for your great advice, as always on this site! Went to see my baby last night and we put him in the bitting harness. He did beautifully and was very calm, interactive, and friendly. We have an indoor ring and when he gets tired, all I do is call him and he stops and waits for me to put the lead line on. He is beginning to really trust me, which is a great relief. He leads better than my 12 y.o.! LOL. He got a total make over last night and basked in the attention. When you reach to rub him he is reticent, but once you actually touch him, you can see he is longing for that caress and he kinda leans his head into your hand. It's really cool. I cleaned his stall for the first time myself (I don't like the way it was being done.....alright I'm anal ). When I brought in the bedding he got a little scared, but was okay. This too will pass. We're back on track now.....I think my trainer learned something valuable too.
Lori
|
Member:
Lorid
|
Posted on Tuesday, May 16, 2006 - 2:07 pm:
No, Angie, I board my two Morgans at a farm nearby. My older boy was in training with the trainer at my barn for a few months. He has absolutely no issues at all now and is an excellent horse.
The 2-year-old is now in training with this same trainer. We work him every other day. He is going in the bitting harness, long lining, free lunge, and free lunge with saddle w/o stirrups (things he previously was doing where he was before I purchased him). He is a very large Morgan, 15 hands, and will probably mature to 16.
You think his training has been started too soon?
Lori
|
Member:
Ajudson1
|
Posted on Tuesday, May 16, 2006 - 6:01 pm:
I don't know if his training started too soon age wise, it depends on what is being done, how often, and what the goals are for his future. I like to do things with 2 year olds the spring they are 2, then leave them til fall, do some more, and wait with the serious riding til they are 3. And that is still easy riding.
I was trying to make the point that maybe with him changing owners/homes, he just needed some down time. But it sounds like every thing is going good now, so just go with it and see what happens.
Listen to your horse is my advice.
I am not a professional, so these are just my ideas.
|
Member:
Lorid
|
Posted on Tuesday, May 16, 2006 - 6:32 pm:
Thank you very much for your excellent suggestions. I will let the colt tell me when he's ready and will not rush things. I will be there when he is being trained and/or worked and I will continue to bond with him. There is no rush for him to do anything. It all depends on him. He will be trained for the saddleseat discipline and we will probably show him at some point, when he is ready. He already has shown us that he is good thinking, curious and learns quickly and to me, there is nothing more important than that! Thank God! I just want to do everything right, so I will ask questions, read, and learn as much as I possibly can.
Thank you!
Lori
|
Member:
Sean
|
Posted on Wednesday, May 17, 2006 - 8:45 am:
Hi Guys,
I've decided to try to train my 2yr old colt myself and taught I'd ask for any advice you experience guys have on training young horses. I want to train him for a sulky, his a pacer, my second,i've got enough experience when it comes to moulding his mouth and lunging to start with that. My question is how long should I spend with him in the beginning. His a quite lad, well he is at the moment as he hasn't had to do anything he doesn't want to, Is 30mins a day to much for such a young horse ?
|
Member:
Sean
|
Posted on Wednesday, May 17, 2006 - 8:49 am:
oh one additional thing, he has rain scald, well I'm almost sure that's what it is. I had sold him to someone that didn't look after him & have taken him back and I'm working on getting him back into conditions. I'm sure its not great for his mood when yr skin is irritable, would this effect the time I spend training him? Any tips on getting rid of rain scald is greatly welcomed.
|
Member:
Corinne
|
Posted on Wednesday, May 17, 2006 - 9:36 am:
Sean
If you start a new post you should get a few more answers. As for the rain scald I have used with success (when we bought him he had some significant patches) Cowboy Krudbuster which is a micro skin cleanser. I don't think it has any antibacterial properties but it states it's for rain rot. Perhaps it prepares the skin for an antibacterial application. Maybe neosporin afterwards?
Good Luck training!
Corinne
|
Member:
Green007
|
Posted on Wednesday, May 17, 2006 - 9:48 am:
Sean,
Start a new post for training for best results. As far as rain scald, I love Shapely's MTG product. It does the trick. I also like Eqyss products for fungus.
|
Member:
Tangoh
|
Posted on Wednesday, May 17, 2006 - 6:21 pm:
Sean,
I have used Shapely's MTG also on dermatophilus. It seemed to do the trick, although I used it after I picked the scabs off and washed the affected spots with betadine.
|
Member:
Dtranch
|
Posted on Thursday, Oct 19, 2006 - 10:55 am:
Just a quick update and a thank you for giving me the courage and confidence to pursue. I have basically redirected my efforts away from buying / selling and have focused on training and working with owners / riders.
It is still just a part time venture for me, but I am now making enough money in training to pay all expenses in keeping my own horses, so I guess I have a hobby that pays for itself. I am growing, and getting more and more interest as word of mouth spreads, and I hope I have to face that big decision in the future. I don't know, hard to give up guaranteed groceries for a dream.
Thanks again for support ... trying to download my new logo for your comments and or suggestions. Who knows, some day you may all be referring to "DT" clinics ... ha ha
DT
|
Member:
Ajudson1
|
Posted on Thursday, Oct 19, 2006 - 11:23 am:
Dennis,
Let me be the first to say "Congratulations" I am glad your dream is working out for you.
You would not believe how often I refer to your training plan that you so generously shared on HA, or how often I think of something you've said in a posting here. You might feel your head expanding a bit now, but you are my main "real guy" whose training advice I follow. (I mean other than the TV clinicians, if that makes sense)
And it gives me encouragement that you are doing this at the age you are; (you were worried about that in your first post I think) so I still have time to follow my dream also which is starting young horses.
And I love your LOGO!! I've just printed it, and it's going in the tack room with your program sheet.
Just hope you remember us all on HA when you hit the big time, LOL!!}}
|
Member:
Hwood
|
Posted on Thursday, Oct 19, 2006 - 11:36 am:
Darn it, Angie! You beat me. I was waiting for the darn page to download, and it was taking forever because of some virus scanning program that is running right now.
Well, Dennis, let me be the SECOND person to offer congrats. The logo is clean and inspiring for all of us folks who want to see our horses trained to sit down like yours!
So is the official name "DT Training?"
Just to give you some encouragement:
My friends in CO bought an old farm a few years ago as they had been running another place for someone else. They needed a trainer as the husband was out straight with trying to manage the place, train, etc., and the number of horses was growing . . . a year or so ago, they found a fellow who LOVES to train horses and is just what they wanted. Their business had grown so that they were able to pay him and offer him some perks. He is able to take in other clients as well as help train the private horses for my friends. He used to be a body man for some pretigious auto companies. Now, he is full-time training . . . doing what he loves . . . and I am pretty sure he is able to pay for groceries, too.
Dreams are good. Attaining them is even better!
|
Member:
Warwick
|
Posted on Thursday, Oct 19, 2006 - 12:45 pm:
Hey, Dennis, where's the dressage horse?
Just kidding... 
Congratulations on your success, I think it is awesome. It can't get much better than being able to do something you love and make money at it too!
BTW - the logo looks great!
|
Member:
Erika
|
Posted on Thursday, Oct 19, 2006 - 12:57 pm:
Wishing you big success, Dennis! Your no-nonsense approach has helped me out many times. I have no doubt your training barn will be full.
Best of luck, wish you were here to help me with my spoiled "kid".
Erika
|
Member:
Dtranch
|
Posted on Thursday, Oct 19, 2006 - 1:35 pm:
Geeeez Sue ... one of them "is" a dressage horse. I just didn't understand the "half halt" and went a little overboard. Guess I still need a little work on my Dressage stuff, huh. But, I want you to notice that neither is BTV.
DT
|
Member:
Dtranch
|
Posted on Thursday, Oct 19, 2006 - 1:48 pm:
Holly .. Official business name is "DT Horse Alliance". Thanks for the encouraging story.
DT
|
Member:
Warwick
|
Posted on Thursday, Oct 19, 2006 - 1:59 pm:
Oh, you're quick, Dennis!
|
Member:
Trouble
|
Posted on Thursday, Oct 19, 2006 - 2:03 pm:
Dennis,
great to hear you are pursuing your training dreams.
Feel free to visit my web site at https://www.horseadsonline.com where you can place free classified ads for your training services, horses, or anything else. Photos are free, too!
Good Luck!
|
Member:
Dtranch
|
Posted on Thursday, Oct 19, 2006 - 2:22 pm:
Lisa .. Thank you, and I will definitely use your site. Looks very promising. What part of Indiana are you located in.
DT
|
Member:
Kathleen
|
Posted on Thursday, Oct 19, 2006 - 4:03 pm:
Lisa,
I just signed up at your site and placed an ad for my Magic Boxes. Thanks for starting the site.
Kathleen
|
Member:
Canter
|
Posted on Thursday, Oct 19, 2006 - 7:12 pm:
Adding another congratulations to the many, Dennis! And the logo looks great as well.
Wishing you continued success....
Fran
|
Member:
Dove2
|
Posted on Thursday, Oct 19, 2006 - 9:06 pm:
Congrats, Dennis, on pursuing your dream and using your talents. Looks like you will be putting Covington on the map! Like already mentioned, I sure wish you were in the No. Virginia area. You'd be so swamped with our newly growing western population that you'd not just be eating, you'd be dining! So, when will you be ready to travel?
I like your logo and can see you put a lot of effort into it. The shadowed letters are quite effective. I was wondering, however, how using two colors might look. Keep the red for your business name and horses, and put the rest in black. Might that highlight your business name even more? Overall, your logo conveys a very nice image and symmetry. Looks like you work both sides of the horse too!
You've got a lot of friends here who will highly recommend you. Based on all the sound advice and insight you've offered here, it would be very easy to refer you. Wishing you much success!
|
Member:
Dtranch
|
Posted on Friday, Oct 20, 2006 - 8:59 am:
Thanks Dove .. I tried your suggestion on font colors, and I like it. I actually have been doing some research into developing a "mobile" training service. Problem is, it always comes down to $$$$.
Still waitin' on the lottery.
DT
|
Member:
Green007
|
Posted on Friday, Oct 20, 2006 - 9:02 am:
Good luck Dennis!
|
Member:
Dtranch
|
Posted on Friday, Oct 20, 2006 - 9:07 am:
Kathleen .... just visited your site, what great work. Looks like I will be digging around in there with Christmas coming up.
DT
|
Member:
Ajudson1
|
Posted on Friday, Oct 20, 2006 - 9:45 am:
Hey Dennis, would be you be interested in doing some deer hunting in the U.P. in exchange for training? Maybe you could do "mobile" training in exchange for visiting other members homes...wonder if an idea like that would be feasible? hmmm...maybe you'd have to drive a scooter though to offset the cost of gas?!
O well, nothing wrong with throwing ideas around, LOL!!
If I win the lottery, I'll pay you very generously to come my way!!!!
|
Member:
Corinne
|
Posted on Friday, Oct 20, 2006 - 10:05 am:
Sorry I have been late posting, got surprise tickets to see Def Leopard (my favorite band from my teen years) and Journey in OKC (my Dad's favorite band when he was alive)so I didn't sign on in the last day or so. Journey was great! Def Leopard was so loud we left as the base was actually pounding us in our seats.....does that mean I am not officially old? LOL
Dennis......you have my prayers! Go for it. It's nice to follow your dream for horses. I didn't get back into it until 29 and while humbling, I still feel like the 9 yr old who dreamt of galloping across the fields on a horse every time I ride him. Good luck sir.....What a Stud to go after your dreams!
For those of you following the eye laceration post you will get that!
Have a great week. Off to a schooling show in Wichita.
Take care,
Corinne
|
Member:
Terrilyn
|
Posted on Friday, Oct 20, 2006 - 11:01 am:
Dennis--
I met our current trainer about 6 or 7 years ago when we bought our large pony from her. My daughter outgrew him several years ago, but he has remained with us, and we have remained in touch with Deb, who now works with both my daughter and I. When I met her, she was living in a beautiful home but with minimal acreage. She was just getting into training horses, having realized that it was what she wanted to do. Her "real job" was as a professional graphic designer/artist.
Fast forward to 2006. She is one of about 6 reining horse trainers in Virginia with a rapidly-growing and excellent reputation. She has acreage, a clean and well-run facility, a gift to share, and LOTS of happy clients (Dove above knows her too!). Her home is not grand--but she doesn't care. She took a $50k/yr. paycut to do what she does now. Her husband wholly and happily supported her, though it affected his lifestyle too. She recently told me that it was all worth it. "I didn't want any more of my life to go by without doing what I knew I wanted to do." She is 53.
I'm jealous of you both for following your calling! I'm sure you'll do just as well as she has. You are both "all about the horse." (Her methods and philosophies are very much like yours.) Thank goodness there are trainers like you two to be found, and that you're willing to follow your heart. It benefits and inspires the rest of us as we trudge through our 8 hours a day, working to pay for our horse habits. Best of luck to you.
|
Member:
Trouble
|
Posted on Friday, Oct 20, 2006 - 11:11 am:
Dennis,
I am near the Muncie area (in between Indianapolis and Ft. Wayne). Looks like about 3 hours from you if I am estimating correctly.
Kathleen, I loved your site. Thanks for posting on my site, I hope it brings you more business. Good Luck!
|
Member:
Kathleen
|
Posted on Friday, Oct 20, 2006 - 11:43 am:
Thank Dennis and Lisa. And thanks Lisa for starting the site. Maybe we will all benefit. What a concept, helping each other. Good luck to both of you.
Kathleen
|
Member:
Kathleen
|
Posted on Friday, Oct 20, 2006 - 11:46 am:
Sorry, I'm always doing this. I forgot to mention that I updated the website last night and the stuff for Equine Rescue has a page of its own. I haven't looked at it yet this morning, hope it is OK. Would love feedback on it, especially if it doesn't work!!
Thanks
Kathleen
|
Member:
Lhenning
|
Posted on Wednesday, Oct 25, 2006 - 10:07 am:
Dennis,
I am another who has used your training guide and excellent suggestions on numerous occasions. We are fortunate to have your good advice here on HA. Best of luck in your future pursuits.
Linda
|
Member:
Maggienm
|
Posted on Tuesday, Oct 31, 2006 - 10:27 pm:
Dennis love your logo. Best of luck to you.
I have your training guide in a plastic page protector in my tack box.
|
Member:
Erika
|
Posted on Wednesday, Nov 1, 2006 - 10:01 am:
Where is the training guide? Did I miss something? Don't be leavin' me out of the loop now, cowboy.
|
Member:
Lilo
|
Posted on Wednesday, Nov 1, 2006 - 10:46 am:
Hi Dennis,
Good look in your new endeavor, and I would like the link to the training guide also. Tried to search with "training guide" as key word, and did not find it.
Thanks,
Lilo
|
Member:
Dtranch
|
Posted on Wednesday, Nov 1, 2006 - 10:54 am:
Erika and Lilo .. Thanks for your interest, hope you're not disappointed .. this has worked extremely well for me. The attachment is in Angies post in the "Training Horses Body" .. "Exercise and Conditoning" .. "Help for Training 4 Horses"
Hope you find it useful.
DT
|
Member:
Dtranch
|
Posted on Wednesday, Nov 1, 2006 - 10:55 am:
Erika .. can't imagine you ever being out of the loop. You are much too quick.
DT
|
Member:
Erika
|
Posted on Wednesday, Nov 1, 2006 - 11:31 am:
Okay, found it. Thanks, Dennis.
|
Member:
Scooter
|
Posted on Thursday, Nov 2, 2006 - 9:39 am:
Hi Dennis, I think one of the most important things concerning training horses is getting the owner involved. Explaining what you are doing and why.
One trainer I worked with was the best, but when it came to explaining things he was terrible. Beginners got very frustrated, because their horse was wonderful but they couldn't ride them due to not understanding the process.
I've seen many a horse come back from trainers doing extremely well, until the owner starts riding them and not knowing what to do. It virtually ruined the training and the owners blame the trainer for not doing a good job!
So I guess my advice would be try getting owners involved (not always easy) and take some lessons on said horse when you're done. Then they understand how to handle the horse and your methods of training. Good Luck I think you will do well.
|
Member:
Dtranch
|
Posted on Thursday, Nov 2, 2006 - 9:55 am:
Diane .. That is an integral part of my program. I am adamant about owners involvement. I insist that it is not important what I can get their horse to do, if they can't get the same results. In most cases, the owners are out twice a week minimum after the initial 2 weeks where I work on my own. As I think I have mentioned before, the basis of my program is "building a bond between horse and rider", so owner involvement is critical.
Thanks all for your comments.
DT
|
Member:
Dove2
|
Posted on Thursday, Nov 2, 2006 - 9:57 am:
Diane,
You just explained Dennis's special signature gift. Not only does he get the owner involved, he takes it to the top level of an alliance and a bond between horse and owner (see his logo). Too often, trainers may be able to ride or train horses, but they absolutely cannot convey their ideas or thoughts to others. Dennis is what we wish all other trainers/instructors could be like. He has a gift of communication! (in all senses of the word)
|
Member:
Scooter
|
Posted on Thursday, Nov 2, 2006 - 10:56 am:
I must have missed that. I could tell from his posts tho that he explained well! I guess I have seen too many horses come from training getting frustrated because of lack of knowledge on the owners part. (I was one of them). They blame the trainer and that can start a snowball to a bad reputation for the trainer!
Years ago my horse came back from training way to soft for my inexperienced hands and riding got very frustrating for my horse and I. I ended up with a rearing, bucking, backing, nut case. All due to MY inexperience of how to ride him. I did not blame the trainer tho, as I was aware of MY problem, this horse was too soft for my level of experience. He was broke to level 2 parelli, which is very nice if you know what you're doing. I now get along with this horse very well after many lessons and learning how to use my body and hands. It took me years tho! The Parelli program is great, but be aware that your horse gets very soft, without formal training for youself also it can be dangerous.
|
Member:
Shanson
|
Posted on Thursday, Nov 2, 2006 - 2:33 pm:
Boy, I'm struggling with this right now. I have myself and my gelding in training (more like retraining...for both of us) with a wonderful trainer who's background is dressage/classical riding. The horse is very forward-going with a tendency to be stiff and willful. (Come to think of it...I'm that way too...there's a lesson here somewhere...)
These tendencies exacerbate my tendency to ride him too much with my hands (including pulling) and not enough with my seat. He's coming along nicely, but still requires quite an experienced rider to ride him correctly. Reassure me, please, that I'll get there! I'm a committed rider taking weekly lessons, but sometimes wonder if I'll ever be the tactful rider I aspire to be.
|
Member:
Scooter
|
Posted on Thursday, Nov 2, 2006 - 4:34 pm:
You'll get there Sharon, if I can anyone can! It's kinda funny it just seems one day the light bulb turns on and you get it. I rode my horse in a halter for a year, then a sidepull for another year, to develop some softness and start trusting my hands. It's been a long HARD road. The amount I learned about horses on the way is invaluable. I am now a fairly soft rider and the response from the horses whose mouths I used to torment is quite amazing to say the least! It is quite amazing what perfectly timed release of pressure will accomplish.
|
Member:
Mrose
|
Posted on Thursday, Nov 2, 2006 - 7:42 pm:
Sharon, do you have a round pen or small arena available? I've found that a good practice session is to ride with no bridle, using only your seat and legs. Once you can guide your horse with your seat and legs, you will find you don't depend on your hands so much. At least I found that to be true with my students back when I gave lessons.
|
Member:
Corinne
|
Posted on Friday, Nov 3, 2006 - 11:38 am:
Dennis....just checking out your post and realized I never shared my well wishes for good luck. Go for your dreams! I am so excited for you.
|
Member:
Maggienm
|
Posted on Friday, Nov 3, 2006 - 1:56 pm:
Sharon, During a recent clinic I was reminded of some very good advice.
As riders we see the movement we are trying to do as a whole action then pick out the fault, the mis-step, loss of rhythm, stiffness, whatever. Instead, I was told to break down the movement into pieces.
Each move we are trying to teach the horse, even the basic walk around the rail on a loose rein or steady contact(pick your discipline) is composed of many parts.
Some of the parts might include relaxation, rhythm, try, suppleness, body position, focus, each of these could be equally applied to horse or rider. Each of these can be scored on a scale, instead of looking for a perfect execution, notice the improvement. I was to slow to...but I kept....;that was a rough transition but I .... Weekly noting my progress, goals, areas I want to improve as a rider, has helped me see progress.
Remember a brilliant ride at the WEG begins with just a few good steps, then a few more, then.....
Perfection is like the carrot on the stick, no matter how good we get that carrot is always just out of reach.
Riding should be fun.}
|
Member:
unity
|
Posted on Saturday, Jan 19, 2008 - 9:28 pm:
For a novice like myself, and a 5 year old mare, who needs to learn discipline and respect, would the Parelli method be good to use?? Or would John Lyons, or Clinton Anderson be better. I want to start and stay with one method for awhile.
|
Member:
leilani
|
Posted on Saturday, Jan 19, 2008 - 11:14 pm:
Mary, I think all of the clinicians you mentioned are very good; you need to find one whose methods you are comfortable with.
I have used suggestions from all of them at one time or another. My 6yo mare, Anuhea can be a bit of a mindful horse depending on the time of day, day of the week, where the astrological sign is, etc. Take what works for you and your mare; they all have a lot to give. Best of luck. Leilani
Remember: Err on the Side of the Horse (Mark Rashid)
|
Member:
scooter
|
Posted on Sunday, Jan 20, 2008 - 1:04 pm:
Mary they all go by the same concept pretty much. Pressure and release of pressure. Developing timing is very important,....rewarding a try. When it happens a light bulb moment will go off in your head.
I think the Parelli 7 games are very helpful to novices. You do have to understand the concept tho. Other than that they are all good methods, choose one you understand the best. Good luck
|
Member:
lhenning
|
Posted on Tuesday, Jan 22, 2008 - 10:54 am:
Mary,
I like Clinton Anderson's methods because for me, as a novice, I found it easiest to follow. His directions are very simple and clear, he tells you problems you might encounter, and the lessons build upon one another to get to your goal. For your situation, the Respect series is excellent.
I know many people have good luck with Parelli and others so I don't mean to bash them. Like Leilani says you can learn from all of them and use what works best for you. Do you get RFD-TV? You can watch all of them for free there. One of my favorite clinicians is Chris Cox. He also uses simple methods that work, especially for training problem horses.
Do a search on Natural Horsemanship, I think. We recently had a good thread where people talked about their favorite clinicians and why they liked them.
Good luck,
Linda
|
Member:
unity
|
Posted on Tuesday, Jan 22, 2008 - 11:27 pm:
I have Clinton Anderson's book, but I think the video would be better for me. I do get RFD-TV and watch his program (when I can), but I want to have some kind of step-by-step program to follow. I think maybe his video would have that. The woman who trained my horse used his methods.
I know I have a good horse; she needs training and I hope to start early this spring.
One other thing: is a round pen pretty much a must? I'm thinking it would be. Thanks! I really do appreciate everyone's input.
Mary
|
Member:
brock
|
Posted on Wednesday, Jan 23, 2008 - 11:27 am:
I highly recommend the Clinton Anderson "Riding with Confidence" - Series I, II and III. Clinton's program is easy to follow and understand. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the sport there is valuable information in each series.
|
Member:
lhenning
|
Posted on Wednesday, Jan 23, 2008 - 3:02 pm:
Mary,
I used the book (I'm too cheap to buy the videos). It is layed out in a step by step program. Try it. Don't skip any lessons, just go through each and try doing it exactly like he says. Don't read the whole book, just read one lesson thoroughly and do it until your horse is good at it.
I was surprised because I looked at the book at first and thought I did not need to do all the lessons. Actually, my horse did not respond right away and I gave up. Then I went back and tried each lesson in order and kept at it until he got it. Big difference.
Linda
|
Member:
juliem
|
Posted on Wednesday, Jan 23, 2008 - 3:44 pm:
Videos are often on ebay-still not exactly cheap, but less than new.
|
|
|
Logo