A big THANKS to you, Tom and others for this ongoing discussion. I have been
"on line" for almost a year and I doubt I have ever seen so much
participation. I don't think I've ever spent so much time actually READING
most posts instead of skimming over them.
I wanted to add how refreshing it is for all of you to be emphasizing that
nothing is "set in stone" and the bottom line is knowing your horse. There
was a discussion some months ago (maybe longer) about riders vs. vets at
rides. I got some BIG objections when I made a statement to the effect that
some ride vets should not have the "authority" they have because many don't
have the experience the riders have and make poor judgement calls regarding
metabolics in particular...i.e. the rider knows the horses and his
performance and what is happening to him and how he is feeling FAR better
than an inexperienced ride vet. I have always liked to feel that vets and
riders are working TOGETHER to make the best judgement calls concerning any
questions regarding a horses' ability to continue.
Not too long ago another discussion arose regarding "hiding" things from the
ride vet and several got harrased over this comment as well. Although I don't
agree with these words directly, I have seen many and incident (and been
involved myself) in situations where a ride vet was simply NOT expereicned
enough (or had too much ego, unfortunately) to have the proper perspective in
making determinations on the ability or advisability of a particular horse to
continue. In SOME of these cases riders, myself included, deliberately held
information back from the ride vet, knowing a particular situation did not
warrant a particular concern, in order to continue in competition.
Conversely, in 20 years in this sport I have NEVER had the occassion for a
ride vet to ask or tell me not to go on with my horse. I have withdrawn many
a time, long before this became apparent to any vet. No brags...I just know
when my horse is not right and I don't enjoy or have the desire to "finish if
it takes me all night".
Thanks again for your realistic and objective participation in this
discussion. I STAY in this sport because the vast number of people involved
are there for one reason...to have a good time, do they best they can do, and
learn something in the process.
Teddy