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Posted by Nanci on August 29, 2004 at 08:50:51:
In Reply to: How to train a psycho pony?? posted by Mandy on August 22, 2004 at 18:52:10:
: My friend and I both took on a green pony to train as a summer project at my barn. I started in July or so, so I'm almost done as I've been riding every day. but my friend just started about 2 weeks ago, and her pony is more psycho. Mine didn't know what to do so I had to teach him and stay on as he bucked in frustration. Hers takes off and ignores the bit. He also rushes jumps and trips over them. She's a beginner rider, and falls off almost every time she rides him. I know she can handle him, but when he takes off his fatness causes the saddle to slip big time, so she can't possibly stay on. Any tips? He currently has a regular full-cheek snaffle, and we're considering getting a different bit but can't decide what. We'd much appriciate any help and as soon as possible; summer's ending fast!
Your friend should be using a breast harness with the saddle - that would help keep the saddle from slipping. If this is a green pony he does not need a harsher bit - that's only going to compound the problem. She needs to work on developing better hands and techniques - circling will often work as an attention getter. Ground work would be very beneficial, particularly for the ponies - training isn't just a matter of getting on and riding them out. It takes a lot of time to really train any horse or pony. Study the books and videos that are out there - Clinton Anderson has a good one on beginning horses, as does GaWaNi Pony Boy. Good luck.