I've had an influx of new students lately and although folks sign up thinking they are coming for "horse" lessons... there really is a whole lot more that will be addressed.
I remember riding for years and never having my coach(es) mention, look at, review any of the following... And these were top level trainers and clinicians.
The idea that the instructor is "just" the riding instructor is outdated and is a disservice to clients. "Students don't know what they don't know," as a client of mine once said.
So many folks don't realize how important ALL aspects of their interaction, health, equipment, etc. affects the partnership with their horse. It can be overwhelming to either the novice or experienced student as every horse will have a different set of needs.
One part is folks have become very "removed" from their relationship with horses. We just don't spend the time with them like we did 20 or 30 years ago.
Another aspect is horses are not the "same" as they once were... their genetics, their limited exposure to the "real world," and their lack of quality training sets them up for a very challenging life. And yet, if owners become educated, if we strive to address all the "pieces of the puzzle," we can achieve amazing partnerships with them.
Below are just some of the many aspects that I frequently have to cover:
From the basics of tack fitting (horse and human), safety issues, correct usage and the how's and why's of what they are using.
Dietary needs/issues displayed in the horse's physical and mental state.
Farrier care and physical affects it may be having on the horse.
Assessing pain and other physical issues in the horse displayed in his posture and movements.
Addressing dental issues, potential TMJ issues, neurological issues, etc.
Then I have to add in the "minor" part of working with the human student, their past, concerns, confidence levels, exposure, and potential physical limitations.
And then finally there is the horse, their mental, emotional and physical state, and assessing their initial education and potential "holes" that need to be filled in order for them to have a quality foundation.
So the next time something may seem as one "specific" issue, remember rarely is one unwanted behavior/response about the moment that it is appearing, rather it most likely is connected to a variety of factors.
A lot of my Q & A with clients is trying to get enough background, history, clues, etc. as I attempt to play detective on how best to work with a horse. And of course, the horse will offer the most honest responses as to his "story."
Are you too far away to participate in a lesson? Find out how the Remote Coaching sessions can help you make quality, long lasting changes in the partnership with your horse. Click HERE for details
Alternative Horsemanship™ with Samantha Harvey the Remote Horse Coach shares horse training and horseback rider coaching, philosophies, and approaches she has developed over three decades. Offering horsemanship clinics worldwide, distance horse coaching instruction, equine consultations, equine re-education and rehabilitation, colt starting, and lessons. Follow her #alternativehorsemanship on all social media platforms.
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Here is some feedback from clients from recent clinics, training sessions and Remote Coaching consultations...
"I had told my neighbor about you for years, but he wouldn't listen until he became scared with his new horse." Laurie, ID
"I tried to explain that my success with my once very difficult horse was NOT overnight nor was it by chance, rather with your support and guidance, and my commitment and energies, we started to see consistent, long term changes for the better..." Meghan, AZ
"I'm not sure why people think working the horse from the ground is a 'touchy feely' thing. The way you present learning to read the horse, have a conversation with the horse, I never realized how much I was completely missing. Without understanding that part, how do you ever feel comfortable with them when you ride?" Susan, WA
"My horse never 'did' anything wrong or bad or scary. But I knew something wasn't right. I could see from the blankness in his eyes that he was putting up with me, but he really wasn't enjoying our time together. With just a few simple 'tools' you taught us, you have completely changed our relationship." Jenna, MT
"How do people ride for years without ever paying attention to what the horse is trying to tell them? Even though I didn't understand what mine was saying, it was clear that I was unable to help him. Asking for your help, building both my own and his confidence, it was life changing." Susanna, FL
There are a million horse trainers out there "selling" the same the traditional approaches... Sometimes it takes thinking outside the box. looking within oneself, and trying something new to get dramatic, quality and long lasting changes.
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