I just can't hold out any longer...GOTTA POST <VBG>
No, I prefer to start them in daylight, I get to sleepy after
sunset...
Disclaimer up front-this is my OPINION....
I REALLY prefer to wait until a horse is older before backing them!
My reasons:
1. Less likely to get excited about what they can learn and push them
to do more than their bodies have matured to do (he trots so nicely, lets try
smaller circles...oh, now a canter...).
2. They don't change QUITE as much, so I am less likely to
inadvertently cause them discomfort (and possible evasion behaviors) with sa
saddle that fit just last week but not this (yes, slightly exaggerated, but you
do see the idea, right?)
3. Older horses are frequently past the spook & fart for the fun
of it game! They are (for some only slightly, I admit) less likely to
develop the game of "Horse Eating Leaf-MUST FLEE!" and find that shying will
dislodge mom. This is a biggie in my book. They seem to have a more
rational sense of self preservation in place by 7, and are willing to protect me
from my own foolishness (I'm NOT going IN THERE!) but a willingness to look it
over before flight (Wait, you'll walk through that nasty little
forest/jungle? Hey, slow down, Mom, you have the cookies!).
Now to just Put up or shut up and catch up on some of my own poines in need
of jobs...as soon as I get this house ready to sell....SIGH!