First time trail ride anxiety supplement?

[tabula_rashah]

@quarterhorsemom

Nope, actually super rude. You’re also taking what I said out of context. I don’t think the advice should be the same for all levels, but that the range of practical advice I’ve gotten in this thread could apply to all levels. There’s been advice given that could benefit a newbie (especially about ensuring there’s trust between horse and rider and being solid on maneuvers like stopping, turning, etc. before going out on the trails). There’s also been advice given that would benefit more advanced riders, including the desensitization exercises. I definitely believe that advice will be different based on experience, which is why I said that it’s fair to ask for clarification or to give advice based on understanding of the skill level of the OP.

I trained with top trainers for many years back when I competed and am still in contact with them, though I don’t train at the level I used to and mostly pleasure ride now. My skills and knowledge are just fine, but thanks for your concern.

Aww bless your heart hon

[quarterhorsemom]

@tabula rashah

Aww bless your heart hon

Super mature.

[S1969]

@quarterhorsemom

Agreed. Just as being a newbie on COTH doesn’t mean you’re inexperienced, being experienced on COTH doesn’t necessarily equal being competent in the real world. If we’re going to say people should start posts by rattling off their achievements then that should be asked of everyone. Personally I think it’s good ask questions if you’re unsure, rather than to make assumptions.

You’re the one asking for help, though. Give people something to work with, rather than expecting them to ask 20 questions.

“Have you ever done any trail ride before on a different horse?”
“Have you taken any lessons in the past?”
“What kind of lessons have you taken?”
“How long have you been riding?”
etc.

Otherwise people will either make assumptions based on lack of information (which is normal, but you’re offended), or they won’t bother to write out an answer because there isn’t enough information to give useful advice.

I’m not sure why you’re arguing. People were trying to be helpful.

[DMK]

@tabula rashah

Aww bless your heart hon

See, the person does exactly what you asked… gave you her resume was nothing but civil, if not direct in her opinion and that is your response.

I’ve seen it time and time again on this forum. Someone comes on, doesn’t know the super secret rules about announcing their credentials first and foremost and gets treated to the assumption that they are clearly without clue. And sometimes they are. But many more many times I’ve seen perfectly knowledgeable people leave in (well earned) disgust or perhaps fight on through because of the people who do come on and answer their questions, or politely ask about their experience level in order to tailor their responses. And I’m left wondering why that is so hard?

And Abbie, I didn’t insinuate you were crazy. I said your response was MY pet peeve that drove ME nuts. So that’s on me.

[quarterhorsemom]

@DMK

See, the person does exactly what you asked… gave you her resume was nothing but civil, if not direct in her opinion and that is your response.

I’ve seen it time and time again on this forum. Someone comes on, doesn’t know the super secret rules about announcing their credentials first and foremost and gets treated to the assumption that they are clearly without clue. And sometimes they are. But many more many times I’ve seen perfectly knowledgeable people leave in (well earned) disgust or perhaps fight on through because of the people who do come on and answer their questions, or politely ask about their experience level in order to tailor their responses. And I’m left wondering why that is so hard?

And Abbie, I didn’t insinuate you were crazy. I said your response was MY pet peeve that drove ME nuts. So that’s on me.

Thank you so much, DMK. I’m honestly considering leaving this forum already because I can’t believe how awful some people’s behavior is, but I might stick around because of you and the others who’ve given thoughtful, kind responses. ❤️

[SharonA]

Don’t worry, OP. COTH is mostly terrific. Just sometimes even the best of us forget that it’s not one of those reality shows where random drama is rewarded. So, have you gone out yet? Have you? Have you?? Git, girl (and/or guy). Do not wait for nicer weather. The weather is plenty nice unless it’s icy or raining or the wind is howling. When it’s warmer, there will be bugs, which are the only bad part about trail riding. Now is perfect. Go! Go this weekend!

The other point, which no one has yet made and therein lies the board’s Greatest Disservice to you, is that if you’re going to trail ride regularly, there is a whole new world of stuff that you almost certainly do not even remotely need but which is fun to buy. Comfier riding clothes, comfier boots, seat savers, portable mounting blocks, bridles made for attaching lead ropes to tie your horse while you take a break on the trail, bridles made of biothane that you clean by throwing them in the dishwasher, cell phone carriers, different saddle pads, heart rate monitors, hoof boots, hay nets, hi-ties, portable corrals, saddle bags for picnics (with or without wine)… it’s a whole new world of retail opportunity (which, again, you don’t need, so don’t let lack of some super-cool bandana with a trail horse emblem on it hold you back from going out on the trail this weekend).

We are all rooting for you and looking forward to hearing that your horses were rock stars and that you discovered some beautiful trails and met some other nice people while you were there. You also may find good advice on the Endurance/Trails section of COTH.

[Abbie.S]

@quarterhorsemom

Thank you so much, DMK. I’m honestly considering leaving this forum already because I can’t believe how awful some people’s behavior is, but I might stick around because of you and the others who’ve given thoughtful, kind responses. ❤️

OP, I genuinely mean this kindly, but if you think responses here are “awful”, then yes, posting on the internet is likely not for you. It requires a bit of a thick skin and a willingness to “take what you get”, so to speak.

However, asking for advice anywhere, internet or otherwise, and then rebuffing any answers that don’t fit in line with what you wanted to hear with remarks about your high level of expertise is not going to win you any supporters.

[quarterhorsemom]

@SharonA

Don’t worry, OP. COTH is mostly terrific. Just sometimes even the best of us forget that it’s not one of those reality shows where random drama is rewarded. So, have you gone out yet? Have you? Have you?? Git, girl (and/or guy). Do not wait for nicer weather. The weather is plenty nice unless it’s icy or raining or the wind is howling. When it’s warmer, there will be bugs, which are the only bad part about trail riding. Now is perfect. Go! Go this weekend!

The other point, which no one has yet made and therein lies the board’s Greatest Disservice to you, is that if you’re going to trail ride regularly, there is a whole new world of stuff that you almost certainly do not even remotely need but which is fun to buy. Comfier riding clothes, comfier boots, seat savers, portable mounting blocks, bridles made for attaching lead ropes to tie your horse while you take a break on the trail, bridles made of biothane that you clean by throwing them in the dishwasher, cell phone carriers, different saddle pads, heart rate monitors, hoof boots, hay nets, hi-ties, portable corrals, saddle bags for picnics (with or without wine)… it’s a whole new world of retail opportunity (which, again, you don’t need, so don’t let lack of some super-cool bandana with a trail horse emblem on it hold you back from going out on the trail this weekend).

We are all rooting for you and looking forward to hearing that your horses were rock stars and that you discovered some beautiful trails and met some other nice people while you were there. You also may find good advice on the Endurance/Trails section of COTH.

Thanks so much for your response ☺️ Unfortunately I live in the Midwest and the trails are slick with ice right now but you’re so right! We’ll have to keep an eye on it to make sure we can get out ASAP once conditions are better and before it gets buggy.

[quarterhorsemom]

@Abbie.S

OP, I genuinely mean this kindly, but if you think responses here are “awful”, then yes, posting on the internet is likely not for you. It requires a bit of a thick skin and a willingness to “take what you get”, so to speak.

However, asking for advice anywhere, internet or otherwise, and then rebuffing any answers that don’t fit in line with what you wanted to hear with remarks about your high level of expertise is not going to win you any supporters.

Thanks for your concern about my ~feels~ but I’m fine— my skin is plenty thick. I just see no reason to subject myself to nastiness ☺️

My remarks about my level of expertise are in response to people calling my level of expertise into question— not in response to people giving answers I don’t want to hear. I’m open to all opinions, just prefer that people deliver them with respect! ✌️