More Thoughts

Yesterday's post sparked a few comments of interest from others - I'm glad! I love to be able to bounce thoughts and ideas back and forth among others. It allows not only myself but others to learn from each other and hear other thoughts or points of view.

First off, thank you for those that commented about Milo and my relationship with him. It makes me happy to know that people think highly of my management with him (as far as condition goes). SillyPony made a couple of points I wanted to mention, first on training opinions and second on horse conditions. She said that the difference between poorly trained dogs versus poorly trained horses (an example with aggressive ones in particular) was the significant difference between the two animals and their owners/handlers safety around them. She is completely correct that aggressive and "poorly trained" (I use that term loosely now as it is a matter of opinion) horses pose a much greater threat to those around them then dogs do. What I wanted to add was that my post was comparing the not-so-dangerous training practices, where others' opinions really are just that - opinions.

Secondly, she mentioned how any competent and astute horse owner usually is (and should be) aware of their horse's conditions at all times and feel that there is always room for improvement, which I also agree with. It's just like when we look at ourselves in the mirror and critique those areas that we feel need improvement. It is our responsibility as owners (and managers) to he proactive and aware of the constant good and bad changes going on within our horses.

That brings me to my personal dilemma with Milo. Saturday I made the (in hind-sight) hasty decision to buy an entire ton of good quality second cutting Timothy hay. I knew Milo had been on this hay before and liked it's quality. Why did I move him from the second cut Orchard Grass he had been on the month prior? Sarah herself feeds an Oregon Orchard Grass. Well, two reasons. Firstly being that I had the hopes of the "higher quality" Timothy would surely help my horse build his natural weight back. Orchard Grass is higher in sugars than Timothy, which is higher in fiber, and a relatively equal protein content as the Orchard. They are a pretty comparable hay, so I figured that Milo wouldnt really need the higher sugar count and would hopefully do well on the new hay. The second reason: the Orchard Grass available at that time was no were near as nice as that I had gotten before. And being the end of the month now, I didnt have a lot of time to browse around. I had saved about five bales of the Orchard Grass to integrate with the Timothy over the first few weeks.

So, what have I been finding in my horse's stall each day now after adding the new hay into the mix? Milo has been picking out the Orchard Grass and leaving behind quite a bit (far too much green gold, in my opinion) of the more expensive Timothy hay. I cant help but shake my head at this, but it is getting me thinking too: why is he picking it out? Should I be reading into this further or hoping when the Orchard runs out he will eventually have to start eating it if he's hungry enough (that thought frightens me anyways with the weight issues we are having). Maybe I made a horrible decision getting an entire ton (a few months' worth) of new hay and Milo knows that the Orchard is better. Or, he simply could just like the sweeter, softer hay of the Orchard and hopefully just get over it.

This horse business is too stressful sometimes. But, in good news, Milo seems to be enjoying his addition of black oil sunflower seeds just nicely.

Lets See How Far We've Come

I have been thinking lately about the changes in both Milo and I in the last year. While I have been working with Sarah through saddle fitting for well over a year, a year and half to be more exact, its only been a year last November that I have been working on my horsemanship with her through taking lessons. Somehow, it feels like it has been so much longer than that. Probably because not only has my way of riding changed, but the way I view my horse, my equipment, and myself in this whole process. I take more responsibility for myself in effecting the way my horse is, not simply blaming our shortcomings on Milo. I have learned how paramount my role is in our partnership. Milo truly mirrors me, and sometimes I have to accept that the difficulties we have are a reflection on my shortcomings as well.

Moreover, my entire way of thinking around horses has changed. From a very dominant-based belief system, to one that encourages working in a partnership, fluidity, and open-mindedness. One of the best ways I could think of to give "outsiders" (those that are not directly involved with Milo, myself, or Sarah's program) a visual change, I thought comparing between the first reining show I competed in after working with Sarah, to the most recent one in September. See if you find the most visual changes that I did (because you cannot see the non-visual ones where I have changed).

November, 2010 - one lesson with Sarah

September, 2011 - nearly a year after working with Sarah

I chose the Dave Reaume class over the Novice because the pattern is much closer to that used at the winter schooling series. 

I want to first compare some of the differences in me and my body, because I know it subsequently had/has a great effect on the way that Milo's moves. Firstly, my body position. From most basic being the position in the saddle, more upright and on my seatbones, to the strength in my core and raised sternum. At this show I was also using (and still am) my diaper, aka, a shim on the saddle under my left seatbone, helping to keep my seatbones level. In turn, the correct position in the saddle allows my legs to fall more "correctly" underneath myself, while I try and maintain relaxation in my ankles. Moreover, I think as an entire image, I look far more quiet, and much more engaged than in the early video. While I still see things to work on, I also see things that have improved since just Septemeber, thanks to continued lessons on Milo and lessons learned from Wesley. 

Now onto Milo. Again, aside from the obvious that Milo's "frame" looks prettier and his head is down, I see a much more relaxed and complacent horse. While Milo still maintains some of his 'tude through tail swishing, it is much less frequent and mostly shows up from a request of mine. But note on the circles he keeps a relaxed and swinging tail, much different than before. This, to me, shows a much happier horse in his work, as well as a much more comfortable horse as well. Continuing onto movement, Milo is traveling much more balanced and unrestricted then before, starting to use his body instead of dragging himself along. This comes from two reasons, I believe; one, the change in my body, as I too am trying to use my body more effectively, rather than sitting atop Milo and asking him to do all of the work while I just enjoy the ride. This easily provides reason number two, which is that Milo's body has physically changed. Just look at the two videos, would you not agree that Milo looks like an entirely different horse (except for the similar markings)? A powerful large hind end with impulsion lifts the developed and stronger back, aided by an engaged core as well. This flows into a lighter and more fluid shoulder released of a lot of tension and allowed the move more freely, which releases the tension in Milo's neck as well, showing off a well toned head and neck. 

These different qualities all come from some of the same few changes that follow with Sarah's three "F's": Feet, Feed, and Fit. First, we started with Fit, that of the saddle. It has truly been amazing to me so see how hugely the fit of the saddle effects the movement and well being of the horse. I look at Fit as not only that of the saddle, but of all of the equipment used; from a proper bit for the job that the horse enjoys as well, to the fit of the human on the back as well. A properly fitting saddle does nothing for the horse so long as the human is not riding the horse in a way that benefits him. While Feed has not been a huge change as far as hay goes (I have no control over the hay the barn feeds), I have changed the supplements and nutrition that Milo receives. I believe that the Dynamite products have helped my horse in more ways than I have even noticed. From a shinier coat, to a stronger body, the high quality products I have used from them, all natural too I might add, have definitely changed the overall well being of my horse. Last to change was the Feet. This was one I was reluctant to change, mostly just to the fact of human ego and embarrassment. I wasnt sure how to tell my kind farrier that I simply did not like the way Milo's feet were being handled. Moreover, however, I did not truly see the problems that his feet were creating, it was simply the word of Sarah that there was a problem. I am glad that I trusted her knowledge to change, otherwise, I believe a lot of the progress we have made would not have happened. The feet really make the horse, and Milo's previous hooves were not helping his body at all, they were exacerbating problems in the shoulder, ribs, and back, and not allowing our progress to move forward.  

Do you see some of the same things that I do? Lets see where we are in another years time. 

Your Opinions Please

So I battled three blankets this season that didnt fit Milo very well. The heavy weight rubbed out his mane above his wither and left shoulder and chest rubs. The mid weight and light weight left shoulder and chest rubs as well. I hate the fit of all of them. I just spent a healthy $100 to get all three washed, repaired, and waterproofed. The plan was to sell the three of them to purchase one mid or heavy weight Hug Blanket, a blanket I know should fit well and I have seen many horses at the barn with them. However, the blanket (mid) and a hood (I want to keep my options open for body clipping again), for a discounted price, would be $119. Granted, if I sold the three blankets I would make $135 (at asking price) so that pretty much keeps me in the clear for a new blanket? Just out the cleaning and repair fees.

Or, I could keep the three old and rubbing blankets, and just invest in a lycra shoulder guard and/or full body sheet. And I would only spend about $35 for either. I still will have an issue of a well fitting hood (I hate the one I have now, which technically doesnt fit onto any of the blankets), and would need to buy one and risk it attaching to the blankets correctly.

This past winter with Milo's clip he remained in the heavy weight most of the winter, so it would only seem right to get a hood to attach to that blanket. The heavy blanket sits too far up on his wither and rubbed out his mane. I would be afraid that a hood might rub out even more. But I do want to keep my clipping options open as I was even considering a full body clip next year, and most likely invest in liner as I layered with the lightweight this past winter on exceptionally cold days.

So, say getting a mid weight HUG blanket might not even be enough warmth for him considering he spent most of the winter in the heavy weight and an occasional additional layer. Maybe getting a HUG heavyweight is a better option? About $40 more in price. So, sell the old heavy weight and light weight (I hate the lightweight too much to keep, and I rarely used it this season) and invest in one heavy Hug?

Naturally, in my frugal state (which was current even before the unemployment) I want to opt for the cheaper route. But would this really be cheaper in the long run? Especially if I consider the rubbing that might still take place? However, I have been wanting to replace my mid-weight blanket anyways for some time - I've been using and repairing the same one for going on six years, used when I had Koalt. I can't see buying a new blanket if it absolutely isnt necessary, or if I dont counter-act the cost by selling the others. I like having options for heavy, mid, or light and would be a bit nervous on just having one blanket.

Not to mention, now is a great time to stock up on winter supplies when everything is on closeout. I need to make a decision soon. I had planned all winter to clean and sell them all and invest in one nice Hug blanket, but now that that time has come, I'm putting on the brakes. I have someone interested in all three blankets, but I'm nervous to seal the deal, and end up regretting that decision later.

What would you do??

*Noting due to confusion in the comments the blanket brands are Saxon, Schneiders V-Fit, and Macpro-Tex. None of them fit correctly and by that I mean no rubbing on shoulders, chest, or mane.

The Seven Week Photo Challenge

Milo had his second visit from the new farrier on Friday. I thought I would share his pre-trim feet in comparison to those done prior to the new farrier, at the same length of time: 7 weeks.

Fronts before New Farrier:

Fronts after New Farrier:

Even though I still see slight inbalances, some that the farrier noted as well, his front hooves do look like they are made for each other now, whereas in the before photo, the two look completely different. While the after photo still shows feet which need trimmed, they dont look near as terrible as the before ones. That speaks volumes to how effective the new trimming has been!

Hinds before New Farrier:

Hinds after New Farrier:

I still see some similarities between the two, but nothing really all that bad. Probably the most notable difference however is how much longer they are in the before photo, versus that of the after (again each photo was taken 7 weeks post trim). Also, they too look like they "belong" together, versus the before photo, which still looks like two different hooves. Overall, I think the proof is in the pudding and after sevens weeks trim, Milo still seems to be on better track then he was before. Plus his ribs have stayed in place, and he has been moving fabulously!

I have a good time chatting with this farrier; he is very knowledgeable and has a lot to say if you get him going. One of the many topics we discussed and what I found very applicable to Milo particularly, was the purpose of flaring in hooves. I asked my farrier if this is something to be concerned about, and true to character he answered in a kind of round-about way. His analogy was a loosely filled water balloon - you know the type that you can still step on and it wont pop. Well, place that balloon on the ground and step directly in the center, the water and balloon will puff out all directions, looking like a donut. But if you step on it just slight of center, it will force most of the water out one direction.

A flare occurs (basically) by the weight of the body being placed off center to that balloon, thereby causing the hoof wall (water) to bulge out to one side. The flare doesnt call for too much of a concern soundness wise, my farrier said. Flares are caused by conformation flaws, but in Milo's case he suggested, nothing to get concered about, just something to mildly treat in our trims. Interesting.

He also said he finds Milo as a much more content horse. Last time, Milo was fidgety, mouthy, and borderline rude to the farrier. He even said to me he was slightly nervous on how Milo might escalate that on our visit Friday, but was happy to find Milo did not.

As I went out in the pasture to gather Milo, the little s.hit turned tail and walked the other direction of me straight towards the farrier. (More groundwork in the pasture, Milo? You little poop??) He trotted, non confrontationally straight into the farrier's face as if to say "Who are you in my pasture?" My farrier didnt move a muscle as Milo came towards him, but didnt radiate tenseness or fear. It was cool to watch even though I was lengths behind Milo. Farrier's demeanor basically told Milo he was no "threat" to his pasture, but also not someone to run right over in lack of respect.

Once Milo was haltered and Farrier began working, there was a moment where Milo tensed up the front leg he was working on, and held the tenseness, seeing what the farrier would do. Farrier just moved with him - didnt try and hold his leg or get tense himself, didnt wack him on the belly with the rasp. Milo sighed and licked his lips, relaxing his leg. He also was really calm about his hind legs, which is a game/test he likes to play with the farriers as well. Again, Farrier didnt react really in any way, and Milo was fine again.

This sparked some conversation between the two of us afterwards, and he explained that he has found that tensing up as well not only nine times out of ten makes the horse pull back even more, but also ends up hurting himself. So Farrier has learned to just move with their movements, and the horses relax just fine. This was a cool concept with Milo, a horse who likes to test his limits and almost "pick fights".

I am really pleased with this farrier all around.

Thinking of an Old Cowboy

I was talking to Boyfriend about this the other week while driving to our favorite store, Cabela's. Im not sure why it came across my mind, as do many odd things, but I had to bring it into conversation.

It was that I wished I could have learned more from Old Cowboy when I had the chance. I mentioned Old Cowboy in my series expanding, rather undetailed however, about my journey into horses, The Arabians, The Quarter Horses, and The Journey. All I really mentioned about Old Cowboy was how tough and difficult he was, and how J was my saving grace in my lessons. Old Cowboy would leave me in tears, feeling inadequate and in a wallow of self pity. But I really should be giving better credit towards the knowledgeable old cod.

See, Old Cowboy came to stay with J and his wife back in the late eighties. He had developed himself, his training program, and his Arabians in the cowboy country of California. J and his wife brought him out to their farm here in Western Washington, at the time they were breeding Arabians and needed someone to start their colts, and finish their personal horses. Old Cowboy came up and did the job as asked, all with his own Vaquero flair.

When I was younger and was under the influence of Old Cowboy and his early lessons, I remember coming across, what to my ignorant eyes, looked to be a pure torture device. That was, a spade bit. My mindset being very much in the natural horsemanship methods and with no concept of real training or especially traditional training, I immedietly asked J what the bit was intended for. He responded Old Cowboy used it for highly trained, finished horses. Well I wanted nothing to do with that bit and it's evil, I affirmed to myself, and put it aside. Now a small part of me started to not want to hear what Old Cowboy had to teach. In my young eyes, he was a cruel old man and had nothing of real benefit to teach myself.

Old Cowboy did, in fact, have much to teach. And that is the subject of today.

With more knowledge as well as interest in the traditional ways of Vaquero training and methods put into their ultimum ranch versatility and cow horses, I wish I could sit down and talk to Old Cowboy firsthand about these well crafted methods. I only have the knowledge of what I can read, and its going to be a rare and wonderful day if I ever cross the path of one of those old, California Cowboys again.

You see, Old Cowboy died at the late age of 94, at the home of J and his wife, amongst his closest companions: the Arabians he bred and raised. He died four years ago. He didnt leave a family; his son had died long ago. He had no wife or other relatives. No one person he left all of his infinite wisdom with. J and his wife learned some of the practices he employed, but being trail riders themselves, they only really wanted a safe broke trail mount. They personally didnt have much interest in having a finished cow horse, one who could hold that spade bit regally, and with the subtlest of cues successfully work and manage a cow at top speed.

Oh, if only I could sit down with Old Cowboy today, and actually listen to what he had to give. Appreciate and learn from the personal experiences of training those ranch horses. I wish so much, yearn even, to learn about those old practices. How those horses were taught through the loping hackamore, almost a sidepull, to the bosal, the two rein, then the finished bridle horse. I wish I could feel the way they would stretegically hold those reins, see the changes in the horses as they progressed. I wish I could have watched Old Cowboy ride one of those finished cow horses, after seeing the building blocks leading up to that finished masterpiece.

But if wishes were horses, as the saying goes. 

Google Image - http://www.annieophoto.blogspot.com/ I just thought this was a prime example of the Vaquero methods

I'm only melancholly over the fact that I didnt appreciate and learn as much as possible from the fantastic teacher that was in my life for more than just a handful of years. I wish that I hadnt had my head in such an ignorant and closeminded gutter that I could have listened to the wealth of knowledge that was cleverly slipping from that Old Man's file cabinet.

I think, even though I cannot change the past or sit down with the Old Cowboy now, at least finally coming to appreciate what he had to offer is in and of itself a proper way to remember him. As I sadly didnt remember him that way as he was laid to rest. Now, I can look back and understand the knowledgeable man that was, and while still wish I had utilized our time together better, I can still appreciate what was given to me. Even if only after the grave now. Please don't take those important people in your lives for granted, even those that to you at the time may deem unimporatant, because everyone has something to offer and to teach even if it isnt what you chose to listen to.

Passive Leadership

Ive talked before about this "new route" of "training" that Im applying towards myself and Milo. Im really comfortable with the ideas and methods that Im learning more about, and trying to incorporate. I dont have to instill fear or pain, or work my horse into a sweat or frenzy, or do anything through force or aggression. It's been (and sometimes is) hard to re-educate myself away from those "inate" responses, or thing that my body learned as a habit to do. But Im trying.

There are a few things I still want to learn about, however. First, I still need to learn how to correctly longe my horse. Doesnt sound like a big deal does it? But with only having "formal" training in Clinton Anderson groundwork methods and exercises, its hard to work my horse on the ground in a manner that isnt overly dominant or "chasing". I want my horse to look at me as a leader, not someone who forces leadership. Mark Rashid wrote a great article on this subject, called Passive Leadership. Its a great read and can be found here. What I want to note most out of it for this reference is the following, items in bold for what stood out predominantly to me:

"There are two types of leaders in a herd situation. The alpha, or lead horse, that rules by dominance, and passive leaders that lead by example. The passive leaders are usually chosen by other members of the herd and are followed willingly, while alphas use force to declare their place in the herd.

Passive leaders are usually older horses somewhere in the middle of the herd's pecking order. They are quiet and consistent in their day-to-day behavior and don't appear to have much ambition to move up the "alpha" ladder. As a result, there appears to be no reason for them to use force to continually declare their position in the herd.

Alphas, on the other hand, are usually pretty far from being quiet and consistent in their behavior. They are often very pushy, sometimes going as far as using unprovoked attacks on subordinates for the simple reason of declaring their dominance. As a result of this behavior, the majority of the horses in the herd will actually avoid all contact with the alpha throughout the day."

"Passive leaders have "earned" that particular title with the other horses by showing them they can be dependable in their passive behavior from one day to the next. In other words, they lead by example, not by force."

"I guess when it gets right down to it, it's more of an attitude than a technique. It's being able to give the horse the benefit of the doubt that they will try and do things right for you, and not constantly reprimanding them for things done wrong."

I very much agree with this attitude, and is something I am striving to display towards my horse. I want my horse to follow me because he wants to, because I am consistent and fair. This rolls over into my work on the ground still, longing particularly. As stated before, I need to learn how to do it in a consistent and fair manner. Sarah said she will help me with this come our next lesson.

All of this attitude falls perfectly into place with Peggy Cummings' Connected Groundwork. I already gave a recap of her clinic I audited and how fantastic it was to observe the changes in the horses as they connected with their owners. I want to connect with Milo. I feel I have a great friendship with him and generally he looks to me for guidance, but I have to wonder: is it because of fear that I have instilled in my early workings with him? or is it because he truely wants to be with me? Interesting things to consider. Of course, you all will be along for the ride as I document our continued journey.

Edit to Add: I had also wanted to add how changing to this perspective have helped in other regards as well. For instance, Milo has always been mouthy. Normally, if he would mouth the halter, cross ties, anything, he would get a pop on the nose. Of course this only seemed to work temporarily, until Milo’s reflexes kicked in quickly and can easily avoid the pop from my hands.

I had an interesting realization the day the new farrier came for Milo, in fact. With anyone, Milo tries to nose himself into their face, lip their clothing, be generally mouthy. And I always embarrassingly apologize for the behavior, always backing Milo up away from the person, or popping on his nose for him to stop. But he always goes right back into trying it again. Generally, people say “Oh, its ok..” and pat his nose or whatnot. But the farrier instead said, “You know, I have found that those horses who are generally mouthy really just want to be touched” as he rubbed his hands on Milo’s nose and muzzle. A content Milo stopped mouthing and just enjoyed the attention.

This got me thinking. Normally, I would see this as rewarding his nosey or mouthy behavior. Of course, a nip, even a playful one cannot be treated by rewarding with a pet, nor can any other demand for touch through being in your space or mouthy. But, selectively, I can offer Milo some physical attention when he is being a good boy.

I have incorporated this new idea into our interactions the last few weeks since the farrier’s visit. Rubbing his nose when he is sweet, not rubbing it when he demands for it. But generally things are getting better. He isn’t desperately trying to get me to touch him, although he still pokes his nose out and mouths to people walking by him especially in the cross ties. And like normal, I apologize for the behavior, and generally wish people would stay away from him so I don’t have to deal with it.

So how can I incorporate being a passive leader to aid in this “problem”? I don’t like calling it a “problem” however, because its really Milo just being Milo and wanting attention. As I think this over, I will continue to add more rubbing and loves when hes a good boy, and think about passive leadership throughout.

Discussing Sweat Marks

I thought it might be a good idea to document where Milo's sweat marks occur, and put it up for review or discussion. On average, Milo gets worked 4-5 times a week, roughly 45 minutes to an hour each. Some days are more on fitness building, and others more directed towards discipline specific. While I always ride with a lifted, engaged back, and maintain subtle cues along with working on maneuvers that will ultimately help our reining patterns, some rides I simple long trot, or work on the "Arena Interval Training".

I have noticed that Milo sweats in the following locations: behind the ears, throatlatch, girth area and under bareback pad, heavily in stifle/belly area, and thigh. Now, I cant determine which areas sweat first being that Im on him when hes sweating, but I do notice that behind the ears starts to sweat after roughly thirty minutes into work, so probably one of the first indicators that he is starting to get a workout.

Last summer I noticed a lot of sweat on his neck and shoulders, this winter however, I rarely notice any sweat on his neck. Now sweat obviously shows us the muscles that are working, or where friction is, so I think its a good thing that the sweat patterns have moved away from the forhand area and gravitated more towards the rear.

Naturally, sweat marks show up under the bareback pad in the same location of my seat, and at the girth area where the pad is cinched down. This makes me remember something Sarah told me when I first started working with her, as I was discussing Milo's dry spots under the saddle. She said "My horses only sweat where I was sitting. If you took the saddle off you would see my seat area, and leg, no other place under the saddle". I thought it was interesting at the time, but thinking back to it now, It makes sense. If the saddle is fitted correctly and off of their back, unless there was an extensive workout or high tempertature, there wouldnt/shouldnt be any need for excessive sweating under the saddle. And certainly shouldnt be dry spots. Im glad that this seems to be the case for Milo and I lately, although we will see what patterns show up one I have him under saddle again, although with a properly fitting saddle and correct riding position, I dont anticipate much change.

Milo's most notable sweat locations are in the stifle/gaskin/belly region. I would take a photo but Milo probably wouldnt appreciate delicate areas being publicized online. But you get the idea on location. This indicates to me that hes working hard on lifting his back and holding his belly up. That seems to be a good sign. There is also light sweat on the rear of his thighs below the cheeks. This also indicates that hes using his hind end to lift and drive, another good sign, dont you think?

What do you think? Do these changed sweat patterns show good improvement, average sweat marks, or bad change?

Out With the Old and In With the New?

I found it incredibly hard to answer the incoming call on my cell phone Thursday night. What had been a fantastic moment of awareness and a good ride, suddenly my stomache was flip flopping, knowing the inevitable conversation that was about to unfold. The caller ID read the name and number of the farrier I had been using. I really liked the guy, he seemed knowledgeable, was friendly, accommodating, and gave great advice for some of Milo's ailments. But after my last lesson with Sarah we had determined that his feet were not where they should be.

When I first started working with Sarah about Milo's saddle fitting issues, muscular tensions and so forth, she did not like the way his feet where, primarily, she thought his toes where too long. She even credited his lameness in his hocks due to poor angles in his hooves. Not wanting to give up my farrier and the relationship we had, I opted to talk with him instead about my concerns. My farrier obliged to my requests, taking more toe off the front. This pleased Sarah when she next saw him and we seemed to have Milo in a good place again.

So frustration sank in at my last lesson. I had mentioned in the blog post that his ribs were out yet again, and it has become a maddening puzzle as to what is causing this. When he is ridden in a saddle it is in one that properly fits. When I ride him, I am in correct position. I continue the small ground exercises Sarah have shown me to help keep his ribs in place. And yet, every time she sees him, his ribs are out and needing an adjustment.

I had already been quite displeased about Milo's feet at this point. I felt my farrier was starting to lapse back to his old ways, and was not doing a very finished job. Milo toes in on the front, but it was becoming quite excessive, and his hind hooves were flaring out quite badly after only 5 weeks post trim.

Feb 16 Left Front

Feb 16, Right Front

I was not at all pleased with the way his feet were looking. I didnt take a good photo of the hind's flaring at the time, but it was noticeable, and not good.   I guess my feelings were that he was bearing most of his weight on the sole area, and not heel-to-toe. 

After my lesson, I expressed my concerns a bit with Sarah about his feet, and she immediately assessed them and noted she did not like the way they looked either. She once again recommended me to her farrier. We left the lesson, still a little stumped to why his rib kept going out. 

Then the next day I got a phone call from Sarah. She had been thinking about his ribs, his angles, etc and came to the conclusion that the only reason why Milo's ribs could be still going out was due to poor trimming. She assessed that this is the only remaining constant throughout our work with him; its the only variable that has not changed. "Have [farrier] look at him." Sarah finished by saying. 

I hung up the phone and sighed. It did make sense, it could be the culprit to the ribs. Its the only thing left that hasnt been addressed. I made the appointment with her farrier, and waited. Waited for what Im not sure. For my current farrier to call, ready for his next visit with Milo? For me to just call him up and tell him not to come? I was nervous of the conversation that had to happen. 

Meanwhile, I talked with others about this other farrier, and their thoughts and opinions on him. I have seen almost all of the horses under Sarah's care, and I do agree their feet look great. There are two fellow boarders who use this farrier, one of which I was able to talk to about him. Naturally, she had nothing but good things to say and highly recommended me to use him for Milo. Then theres Melissa and Grace, and I know Grace's feet always look great too. Then there are the select handful of people that have warned me to stay far far away saying he takes off far too much toe, and has even caused a horse to come up lame. Could me tall tales I suppose, as neither one of them actually have personal experience with the man, only making their assessment on what they have heard. 

I decided that there was a rather large band of people and horses whom I trust and consider highly knowledgeable. To make an informed opinion about this farrier could only be through talking with him, and seeing how he addressed some of Milo's issues. 

The phone was still ringing. I really wanted to hit ignore, but the responsible part of me make me flip open the phone. Darn responsibility. His cheerful voice sang out of the speaker, and he said he was due to come trim Milo Friday. "Um, well, yeah, I um, I have another farrier coming tomorrow." Silence. "I need to try something new, and um.........I will let you know how it goes and if I need you again." Silence. "I know I have a bill to settle with you, can I bring it by your house, or .... ?" He replied yes, I could bring it to the house. Then it was over. 

My previous feelings of affirmation and pleasure from a good ride quickly vanished and I was slumped over in the drivers seat racing down the dark and wet highway. A phone call to a close friend only made matters worse as she groaned and warned me about the farrier saying he was going to ruin my horse's feet. Her disapproved tone made me wonder if this was a bad decision. But when I talked with Sarah via FB the next day, she asked if her farrier had seen Milo yet (Sarah was gone on vacation for two weeks) to which I felt better, reminding myself why I decided to try this guy. 

The day came, and I met the new farrier in the pouring rain outside Milo's pasture. He seemed nice, knowledgeable, if not a little quirky. I spoke with him on some of he issues Sarah and I saw, and he quietly wiped off Milo's muddy feet. We spoke of his conformation, the "interesting qualities" that he saw, and how he felt that his feet could be effecting his ribs.  He seemed the type of man who spoke when spoken to, making me feel a little awkward. But why should I? This man had never seen or met myself of my horse before, what did he have to say, rather then assess the hooves and structure in front of him?

He didnt do a whole lot that I could tell to the front hooves, but did address the toes-in in a clear way that made sense. Now I know you cannot just go about chopping off the inward toes to make the hoof appear symmetrical. But I guess I was expecting a little bit more adjustment to them then were made. However, he said smartly that if you look straight down Milo's legs, you will see that the knee to the fetlock, the fetlock to the hoof are not in alignment. The fetlock comes outward from the knee, and the hoof points back in, basically you could say, zeroing out the faults. It might not be visually appealing, but it doesn't mean unsoundness. Milo is base narrow, he continued, but nothing terrible. However, if necessary I could work greater on creating muscle in his chest to help broaden him out a bit. 

While this isnt the greatest of photos, and surprisingly Milo isnt standing on the front as near together as usual, it does show the "crookedness" in Milo's front legs, and how it compensates for it.  

Next, he moved onto the rear hooves, where he obviously quickly noted the flaring. The only difference he did to what the previous farrier did was to take off some heel from the inside rather then the outside, as well as leveling out the the wall on the inside as well. Then of course taking off the flaring and trimming just a tad. He said this could be quite beneficial for Milo this slight difference because it now would allow Milo to bear weight evenly on both sides and should stop from flaring. That seemed to make sense to me as well.

So visually, you probably cant see a whole lot of change, and I was glad to see him not hardly touch his toes, as that was a real concern given to me by those who dont like the farrier, saying that he is known to "chop off the toe" or "try and fit the hooves into a teacup." I didnt personally see any of that in my meeting with him. We scheduled the next date, and he wanted me to be sure to contact him if I saw any dramatic changes, although he didnt feel that would be the case. 

I took before photos of all four hooves before he arrived, but failed to take some afterwards. I might try though on Monday, and if there is any sort of noticeable changes, might post to here. 

So, have you had to tell a good farrier goodbye? What are your thoughts on how this new farrier addressed Milo?

They are so Forgiving

This topic has been on my mind for a while, but I never really formulated it in my mind as a blog topic, well until now. I think we can all safely agree that horses (animals in general) can be all too forgiving, but I suppose that is what we love about them too. This post is inspired by the ignorance we all see from those horse enthusiats around us. Im talking most specifically about horses in poor condition, but not necessarily neglected. Those horses with good intentioned owners, but not necessarily the knowledge (or maybe even means) to see to it that their horses are in the conditional that they could (or should) be. But what amazes me more, are those horses in the not greatest of condition are still so unconditionally loving to their human partners, and forgiving for their short comings and ignorance.

I'm talking about the back yard horse owner, the enthusiastic young rider, and even the competitor. Now, I do want to mention before I continue that this post is not to put anyone down, or say that any of the mentioned are abusive, wrong, etc. This post is simply my opinion being expressed about the amazing ability horses have to trust and love unconditionally, even when lacking in some care.

The back yard owner is the one who may or may not have lots of experience with horses. They generally keep their horse at home (hence the title given) and may or may not have the best of living conditions for their horse. They love their horse(s) and give them decent feed, they may seek veterinary care when needed, and generally have less than high quality equipment. This could be the person that feeds well, but doesnt worm. They could be the one who feeds terrifically, but has poor tack and equipment. They could love their horse more than anything else, but have unsafe and hazardous living conditions. And yet, the majority of horses will love that owner, but suffer from a wormy belly, a sore and weak back, and dank living conditions, among other possible ailments that could easily (to ignorant eyes) be overlooked. I think this is a large portion of horse owners. While they might love their horse and believe that they are giving them quality care, most of the time their ailment is simply ignorance and lacking some sort of guidance - be that a trainer, or another horse friend perhaps.

Then you have the enthusiastic rider. The young person who has fanasied having a horse and is now on the early steps of learning more about these fabulous creatures. They could be the rider who has unforgiving and unknowledgable hands, usually banding and flapping around on their horse's back while the (typically) trusty old school horse tunes out the rider's imperfections and plods along. This rider really doesnt "bother" me persay simply because I would like to assume that they are learning how to ride properly, and are not necessarily being "abusive" to the horse. Thats not to say though that we can overlook what is being done to the patient equine, and we need to make sure that we are giving back to the complacent stead.

Now on to the competative rider. This is probably my biggest pet peeve in observing riders. Its hard to watch someone blatently pushing their horse around demanding a "headset", spurring their sides and pulling back, and demanding some sort of "perfection" from the horse that the rider sees fit to win whatever competition they are in. Watching people get so frustrated with their animal either in warm up, during their time in the show ring, and especially after what might have been a ride where the animal didnt work up to the rider's "standards". I hate to see what seems to be a perfectly willing horse come out of the show arena to only be worked into the ground because the rider is unhappy with its performance in the show ring. This is not to say that schooling after a run is bad, because it certainly is not. But taking frustrations out on the horse simply because it didnt do as well as you might think it should have been is wrong. And it amazes me how horses (typically, of course not always) put up with their heads being reemed off, their sides kicked in, and being so overly worked out of frustration. It truly amazes me how these animals will work so hard to please us.

Finally, saddle fitting, or general tack equipment failure is so grotesquely overlooked and ignorance to proper saddle fitting is so common. Im not going to preach how knowledgable I am in this area, because frankly, up until about six months ago I thought I "knew it all" when in reality, I only had the bare bones of knowledge. But it pains me to see people (especially those who are trainers) to be riding and working in such ill fitting equipment and either be ignorant to it's true fit, or simply dont care. I understand everyone has a budget, and people most likely try and fit whatever saddle they have or can get access to as best as possible, but it really irks me how commonly incorrect people are to a true and correct fitting saddle. Its just amazing for me to imagine the horse working as best as it can with a thirty pound saddle strapped down to them and digging between their shoulders. Then to add a hundred fifty (or more) weighing person only pushes those pressure points deeper into their back. Makes my back hurt even thinking about it.

Now, Im sure this post can be taken as me thinking so high and mighty of myself. I really am not. I have very very much to learn in the world of horses, and feel that every day as I learn more, I discover how little I actually did know. I think everyone should make a conscious effort to educate those ignorant, but willing to learn around us. Because we can never give back to the patient horses without educating their owners. And of course, some owners will think they "know it all" and are unwilling to learn, but trying for the horse's sake at least is some effort.

I dont really feel like Im touching on the entire sugject that I have in my mind...but it is a rather vast subject. Maybe we can continue it in the comments with your input? What are your thoughts an opinons on these less then perfectly cared for horses we all see, but arent in such bad condition that you might consider it abuse?