Horse Clinics
2009 |
Where |
Type |
Bookings |
| November 7/8 | Moorooduc Vic | 2 Day | Closed |
| December 5/6 | Gisborne Vic | 1 Day | Closed |
2010 |
|||
| To be announced |
Note: Clinics quite often have limited availability and are often not listed due to many being privately sponsored. Contact us if you would like to be notified of future public clinics.
Basic Information
• These horse clinics are designed for anyone wishing to turn their horse into a polite and cooperative partner by using great horsemanship
• These horsemanship clinics have a big emphasis on safety, which is the number one priority. During the clinics, you must endeavour to keep yourself and others safe. You will learn techniques to increase your competence in this area. Consider these important considerations:-
i. You alone are responsible for your safety!
ii. Being in control enhances safety, that's what ground and riding control is about
iii. Being in the correct position is vital – knowing where and when to be
iv. You must be aware and understand what a horse can do. Awareness of horse – front end pushing, standing on you, nibbling biting, striking) back end (kicking), etc.
v. Never assume your horse will not act unexpectedly or exhibit dangerous behaviour
vi. Keep others safe. Keep your horse away from other people and horses
Why Ground Work ?
• Safety
• Develops horsemanship, means you will have less problems
• Control of horse
• Improve riding responses
Know What You Want
• Giving the horse clear, consistent and persistent instructions/messages is essential
i. How do you want it to lead?
ii. When you have caught your horse, what are the conditions that allow your horse to eat? With the bit in his mouth, anytime or only when you say?
iii. Do you allow your horse to nudge you or move around?
These issues will be dealt with at our hose clinics
The Training Grid
• The horse relies on pecking order. You must be at the top of the order, you must be the leader
Respect
• The horse must respect you. The true demonstration of respect is when the horse willingly decides it will follow your request whether it really wants to or not.
Keys To Training
• Training both sides of horse
i. You must train both sides of horse
ii. You must get movement when you ask for it. The horse must not be allowed to stand there and ignore a request, it must do something, even if it is the wrong thing
iii. Reward the slightest try, stop request quickly, pat the horse often
iv. Remain in emotional control, never get angry or upset with the horse, be patient, ask for small improvements
• The Whip and Other Equipment - "OMG, you mean you can use a whip in natural horsemanship?"
i. Dressage whip - it is just an extension of your arm, not a weapon. Used in the correct manner it is a very hand tool. It is also light and easy to control.
ii. Remain in emotional control - whatever the circumstance, you must remain in emotional control and not lose your temper, even if the horse bites. In such a situation controlled, competent action is required.
iii. If you ever feel like hitting your horse with your hands, whip or a shovel, stop and quit until you regain your emotional control. Review your strategy.
iv. Wear gloves - roping style preferred
v. Rope head stall is best
vi. Full cheek snaffle bit
vii. Horse leg protection is recommended