Article 1: Are you a breeder? Are you a trainer? Let’s Find Out
I have heard it said that anyone who “touches” your horse is a trainer. What is the meaning of this dramatic statement? Simply, anyone who “handles” or potentially “mis-handles” your horse can expose the horse to positive or negative experiences that can last a lifetime.
In order to truly understand equine behavior, we must turn to Pavlovian psychology. All living things avoid pain and seek comfort or security. If a horse has a negative Experience with the farrier in its formative years, this could become an area of Avoidance and sensitivity in years to come. Although retraining is possible, it is not always practical because if a horse becomes difficult to handle around a Particular issue, his owner may become fearful of his behavior, and thus the Negative cycle is repeated and reinforced. There is no secret to training or retraining. It only takes time, education, and patience.
Owners must be willing to spend countless years developing their talent for the equestrian arts. Like the sport of tennis, equestrians know they must have an acute Mental game plan and be in strong physical condition. Does this mean you need To be an Olympic athlete to enjoy a trail ride or participate in a performance class? No! Just be aware of your physical limitations and level of experience. We are all continuously learning about our horses and making new discoveries; however some Know more than others. To develop educational skills, find a mentor. A good mentor will possess the candor to tell you what you don’t want to hear, but the objectivity And sensitivity to discuss your equine goals conflict-free.
Keeping your focus on your horse (s) is your primary concern. Providing the necessary love, attention, nutrition, health care, training, and exercise is in itself your reward for The privilege of owning such a magnificent creature. In the equine world, as in the “real” World, there are no “quick fixes” or “overnight success stories”. Some horse owners Think nothing of spending a human lifetime to produce a champion or derby winner.
Horses are in your blood. This is a famous expression that typifies the extreme sacrifice And commitment necessary to be involved with horses. The arenas and racetracks are littered with the ghosts of fortune seekers and gamblers. I would suggest and stand to be Corrected that, “No horse operation has turned a profit since the invention of the bicycle”. Therefore, it is the “love of the horse” and only that “love” that will sustain you in the face of tragedy, economic downturn, and personal challenges you could never imagine.
Do you still want to be a breeder? If you bring one new horse life onto this planet, you are a breeder. Carefully examine your reasons. Too many animal “breeders” have fallen into the trap of constructing “hobby-business” tax loop holes. Despite “creative accounting practices”, these schemes never go as planned, with owners becoming dis- Enchanted and eventually “dumping” their animals. Only breed as many animals as you Can financially support, emotionally love, and have the time to enjoy. Keep in mind; horses are first and foremost “pets” not extensions of our egos.
(printable version of article here)
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Barbara Thompson-Firestone Barbara is a former Licensed Clinical Social Worker who at one time practiced as a psychotherapist. She received both undergraduate and graduate degrees in Social Work from the University of California, Berkeley and San Francisco State University, respectively. She began riding at age 5 at the Encouragement of her father. Her classical training began at age 7 with formal English Pleasure, Western Trail, and later Dressage. Upon finishing graduate school in 1988, she purchased her First Peruvian Paso. “The Peruvian was the ideal choice for me due to chronic back pain”, according to Barbara. Today, Barbara lives on a quiet ranch with her husband of 16 years.
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