To generalise, our philosophy is to do as much in a safe environment as you possibly can first. In our opinion it can be dangerous to long-rein a young horse on the road. Some people have someone on the long reins and someone at their head - the problem with this is that the horse cannot gain his own confidence and is relying to some extent on the person at his head.
So rather than take risks with youngsters, we take them on one of our tracks where we control the environment. On the track with a friend driving past in a car, you can request them to come close, slow, fast, from behind, head on, and where possible to change vehicles. We do lots of groundwork in our arena first to build the horse's confidence - then once in the carriage he will happily go out on the busy main roads and is not worried about vehicles or strange noises/objects.
@yellohorserach - In response to your comment:
To generalise, our philosophy is to do as much in a safe environment as you possibly can first. In our opinion it can be dangerous to long-rein a young horse on the road. Some people have someone on the long reins and someone at their head - the problem with this is that the horse cannot gain his own confidence and is relying to some extent on the person at his head.
barryhook2 1 year ago
So rather than take risks with youngsters, we take them on one of our tracks where we control the environment. On the track with a friend driving past in a car, you can request them to come close, slow, fast, from behind, head on, and where possible to change vehicles. We do lots of groundwork in our arena first to build the horse's confidence - then once in the carriage he will happily go out on the busy main roads and is not worried about vehicles or strange noises/objects.
barryhook2 1 year ago
Comment removed
yellohorserach 1 year ago
I love watching your videos. I'd love to have a steady driving horse one day...
AnnikaL 1 year ago