Phil's Courage Archives - Page 6 of 9 - 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 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.

Day 13 – Phil’s Courage’s Journal

Herd punishment: The worst punishment the Alpha mare could administer is to isolate the belligerent one from the protection of the herd. Out in the open the horse is very vulnerable to predators. This is the concept behind sending Phil far away from my space is that I want to make my message clear “if you are in my space you are going to get sent far away from me.” At this point, I am Phil’s herd.

Day 12 – Phil’s Courage’s Journal

Once Phil’s brain was switched to “learning mode” I took him out on the trail for a team building session. This is my version of a Rope’s Course. I’m sure many of you have attended this workshop with your coworkers. As Phil and I were walking away from the barn I uncovered another “hole.”