Ponies are often thought of as first mounts. There are many misconceptions, stated and unstated, about these smaller statured members of the equine world.
“Ponies are mean.” Ponies are no meaner than horses *if* they are treated the same way. The problem comes with the misconception because ponies are kid sized they’re born knowing everything and […]
Just outside of the small town of Kewanee Illinois sits a community college often overlooked in the listings of horse colleges. Surrounded by fields and laying on a 102 acre campus at the intersection of highways 78 and 34 in Illinois, the school has become well known not only for the competitive teams, but for […]
Many people make the training mistake of affection is the only way to handle your horse. You praise him for good, you give him treats when catching him, you give in when he refuses - and the horse is on a downward spiral of being in charge, not being prepared to be in charge and […]
One of the most frustrating things with some horses is trying to catch them. We school them for riding but so often the basic on the ground things are just assumed they know. Or, worse, we’re in a hurry so carelessly rush through haltering, turn around and jerk the horse forward then smack him for […]
Most people view riding as cutting cattle, galloping over an open range or serious competition in jumping or other events. Before any of that can happen one must master the basics.
You’re facing a large animal with power, big teeth and an instinct of self preservation above all else. The fear of sitting on this should […]
In the article “Basic Riding - Before Mounting” we looked at ways to help your leg control and balance. In helping yourself physically before getting on it might seem silly doing the exercises but makes a difference!
Your horse is tacked, double check the girth and prepare to get on. When you raise your foot to […]
Hay prices have been up in many areas, and hay difficult to find in others. Making maximum use of your pastures makes sense now more than ever.
1. Get a soil test. These can be done inexpensively, sometimes free, at agriculture extension services. If you have an agricultural college nearby, see if students are interested in […]