[QUOTE=BeeHoney;8379351]
On another side note, I sure wish we could redirect the energy of all the folks who seem to have excess moral outrage towards situations like the current massive animal abuse case in VA [/QUOTE]
We’re here, BeeHoney, and we are outraged! I have been posting on this topic on the thread in the Sport Horse Breeding forum.
AF, I have been following that thread and I thank you for your presence and involvement for those of us that are not in that area. It’s a shameful, shameful situation. Can anyone who wasn’t there even IMAGINE the horror what 100 starving horses looks like? I do hope that the board members are held accountable to some degree as well, although I do believe they were most likely used by the perpetrator as part of her scheme to use the non-profit to benefit herself. Please continue keeping us posted as to events related to the case.
Just adding in my two cents here: riding a drugged horse over the countryside or anywhere else is not something that I would consider doing. I hate to see a drugged horse. I feel sorry for them. It’s a simplistic view, I know.
I’ve posted on here before about acing my mare while hunting, so I’ll jump into the discussion…
Last year was my first season and my mares first season hunting. I’ve been riding reiners and she’s been an eventer. So not only were we figuring each other out we were learning a completely different type of riding together. Can I also mention that while she’s very athletic the only reason she was affordable was because she tends to be hot and opinionated? (My type). She gets over stimulated easily.
I aced her last year while I played with multiple bits and we both figured out our new jobs. She will trail ride in a loose ring snaffle but needed something with better breaks while hunting. It did not affect her in any way other than taking the edge off and I did not feel unsafe at any moment. I think I’ve found the right bit now and I don’t plan on using ace this season, but will have it just in case.
What ace did do for us was allow me to have a discussion with her without arguing. Once it started to click that I would only pull on her face when I needed her to change speed or direction everything started to be much more enjoyable for us. Without ace (or the correct bit) I ended up skiing in her mouth for 20+ miles and 5+ hours, not an enjoyable trainable time for either of us.
ETA: to mention that I can ride, very well. I grew up eventing and riding in Pony Club along with competing all through college and starting and retraining multiple horses. I never had to try out for the college team but was sought out and recruited. I was also very successful riding reiners. I’m just having to find my English legs again.
[QUOTE=flyingchange;8349461]
Ace makes it possible for people who cannot ride (aka - most people out fox hunting) to think they can.[/QUOTE]
Most people out fox hunting can ride! Fox hunting is one of the most challenging equestrian sports. I’m fairly new to the sport ie. 4 seasons or 2 years. I’ve started both of my horses in hunting myself and school them at home myself. Without the use of any calming medication (for them). I’m in for the stirrup cup and do carry a flask.
By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. You may also receive promotional emails from The Chronicle of the Horse. You can opt out at any time.
For Customers
Company
Terms of Use
