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Posted by Missyclare on September 08, 2004 at 01:23:57:
In Reply to: Re: How to train a psycho pony?? posted by Nanci on August 29, 2004 at 08:50:51:
: : 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.
Now this post took me back down memory lane! I had a summer pony project when I was younger. You need to work together on one pony at a time and from the ground. They need to learn who is the boss and respect you in order for you to have control. I had to chuckle about what you wrote that your friend just about falls off everytime she rides, but you know that she can handle him........not!LOL! Read up and get a plan, work together and stay safe! The bit is o.k. It's good for teaching them to flex to the side, and giving. Never pull with both reins at the same time, aboslutely useless. Pull one rein, get him to give to that side, the hip will disengage and that's where you brakes are. If he's turning in circles, he can't grab the bit in his mouth and take off. Also consider helmets! Life is too short to spend the rest of it as a Paraplegic like Superman.