OTTB discussion between trainer and prospective client
If only this were not so true . . .
Read MoreRetraining Thoroughbreds – OTTBs
These pages are dedicated to retraining off-track-Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) for dressage, eventing, hunter/jumper and pleasure. OTTBs are kind, sensitive animals who want to bond and please their humans.
Read MoreRiding Your Off-the-Track Thoroughbred for the First Time
Many new buyers of off-the-track Thoroughbreds are worried about what their first ride will be like. At Bits & Bytes Farm we have been getting Thoroughbreds off-the-track for many years now. We always take a safe yet relaxed approach to the first ride. Here are a few important things to remember . . . This…
Read MoreTraining OTTBs – Phil’s Courage’s Journal – From Ex-Race Horse to Sport Horse
I have asked Kara to give us a Journal of Phil’s Courage’s training. She uses what techniques promoted by most “Natural Horseman” trainers. It is our hope that our reader’s will see how these techniques work to make your horse respect you on the ground and when mounted.
Read MoreDay 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.
Read MoreHelp! My Horse is Rearing.
Rearing under saddle is an unpleasant reaction. In its extreme form, flipping over, this action can be life threatening. Understand, it is a reaction usually caused by rider error.
Read MoreDay 20 – Phil’s Courage’s Journal
Side note: I use certain words like “NO” or “BACK” to help me raise my energy and change my facial expression, not necessarily to teach Phil to respond to the words. Eventually, he will make the connection between the words and my actions. These words are always said in the same authoritative tone.
Read MoreRace Horse vs Homebred Thoroughbred – Which is Easier to Train?
Thoroughbred race horses have lots of valuable training experience that puts them way ahead of homebreds. Learn more about retraining Thoroughbreds from this video.
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