Ground Training Archives - Page 4 of 7 - Training Off-the-Track-Thoroughbreds

Day 18 – Phil’s Courage’s Journal

Ground Tying: I think this is really a neat concept. Ground tying gives your horse a say so in the situation. Think about it, if your horse is truly your partner then he will accept bridling, saddling, mounting, etc. by standing still. If your horse moves away from you during any of these activities he is telling you “hey, I’m not ready yet” or “I don’t respect you .” Ground tying is an easy lesson to teach, but it takes time and lots and lots of patience.

Day 17 – Phil’s Courage’s Journal

A little insight: I love my horses. I do not love on them. My horses are not my best friends. I do have great partnerships and relationships with all of them. I respect the horses for what they are and what they are capable of doing. I try not to put human thoughts or emotions on their behavior.

Day 16 – Phil’s Courage’s Journal

If you drop the rope you have now taught your horse that if he struggles he will be released. The purpose of the exercise is to teach your horse that if he gets a leg caught he is to stand still and he will be released. I am sure everyone knows of at least one story where a horse got caught in wire, fence, underbrush, etc. and severely damaged muscle, tendons, or ligaments because he fought to free himself. Again, I repeated lifting his leg and released as soon as he relaxed. This was repeated on all legs.

Day 15 – Phil’s Courage’s Journal

Morning feeding: no problems.

I vaccinated Phil today. When I vaccinate a horse for the first time I am always prepared to do some ground work, or desensitize the horse to the needle.

Day 14 – Phil’s Courage’s Journal – RESULTS!!!

I just wanted to give you the “heads up” on Phil’s journal Day 14. Phil and I brought home a Championship in his halter division (halter geldings, showmanship, hunter in hand). I will be sending more entries and pictures if you are ready to receive the journal.