Re: pony a yearling?

["Karen Sullivan" <greymare@jps.net>]

I have ponied quite a bit in the last couple of years.  I found the best way
for me, is to have either a very thin rope halter on the horse being ponied,
or better, a be-nice halter.  They MUST understand they can't lag or drag
and this will help.  After a year of my right arm being pulled occasionally
and a hurt elbow, I got smart and started using a Western Sport saddle with
a horn.  I get the lead rope to a length where the horses head is at my leg,
and do two wraps around the horn, with the excess hanging down and my right
hand holding the end against the part going to the ponied horse.  This is
extremely important it be done this way, with only two dallies, that way,
with your hand holding the pieces together; if the baby pulls, they are
pulling against the horn and the rope absolutely does not slip.  BUT, and
this is the important part-if you release your hand, the rope would
completely slip loose, avoiding a wreck.  NEVER tie to the horn!  I also
carry a crop as a standard tool....if the ponied horse starts to forge ahead
and will NOT respond to being put back in proper position, a light rap on
the snout will remind them not to pass your knee.  It is also essential to
have it because at some point they will get pissed by the whole thing and
try to bit the horse you are riding.

Start out on wide dirt roads until you get the hand of it.  On narrow trails
I let out more rope, and let them follow.

Hope it makes sense!
Karen
----- Original Message -----
From: <guest@endurance.net>
To: <ridecamp@endurance.net>
Sent: Tuesday, January 01, 2002 4:34 PM
Subject: RC: pony a yearling?


> Tracy TBlue1@aol.com
> Can anyone give me any advice/suggestions on good ways
> to pony a yearling? The horse I would pony from is good and sensible, has
> done several endurance rides and tons of trail rides, and is solid first
> level dressage. They pasture together and get along well. The yearling is
> quiet and has already been walked and led on trails and roads, around
> traffic and other horses. Have never done this before. What's a good way?
> What's the best equipment? Thanks!
>
>
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