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Re: [RC] training to cross water - Zephyr Arabians--- Kathy Ramspott <kramspott@xxxxxxxxxxx> wrote: What has been most successful, driving, riding, leading or some combination? This is the week I planned on introducing him to it. Kathy, I think it's really going to come down to the individual horse. You may also find that crossing a wide, flowing river is easier than crossing a stream (or harder -- again, depends on the horse -- but mine have all tended to like rivers better than streams at first). I've found the BEST way is to pony them across a river if possible. But, some horses will just walk right in the first time. Others will leap into the river and then discover it's OK (I can't remember any horse of mine leaping into a river more than once -- seems they get this one the first time). For streams, it's just patience. Again, ponying is great if you can do that. Let them jump if that's what they need to do, just hang on for that awkward leap. And then do it over and over (not necessarily all at once). Remember not to lose your temper. The horse's depth perception is extremely limited (eyes on the side of the head will do that to you) and for all they know that trickle of a stream is a deep crevice they'll fall into. I let them sniff and try to keep a lose rein and let them think about it, then I'll gently persuade and let them think some more. It's all about patience with scary objects. Streams are really no different from any other scary object except they have to step into them rather than walk past them. Some horses will be better if you get off and lead the first time, but I try to do it mounted if possible. I don't want to be on the other side if they should leap and land on me (mommy! protect me from this scary stream!). Good luck! Don't spend too much time dreading it or the horse will pick up on that! Relax, be patient, and it'll be fine. ~Nicole Zephyr Arabians http://www.zephyrarabians.com KattWmn Web Design http://www.kattwmn.com =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Ridecamp is a service of Endurance Net, http://www.endurance.net. Information, Policy, Disclaimer: http://www.endurance.net/Ridecamp Subscribe/Unsubscribe http://www.endurance.net/ridecamp/logon.asp Ride Long and Ride Safe!! =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
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