Mystery started forging this summer. We are both learning to trot for
miles and developing proper muscling, collection, conditioning.
No, I havn't any other horse to practice riding on so if my riding is
not perfect that is reality. No, Mystery is still learning collection
(on the ground first this winter) and only realized this summer he
could trot for miles. Sorry, I havn't been riding stallions bareback
since I could walk but that doesn't mean I'm not going to ride because
we (Mystery and I) are not perfect...., it only means I realize my
limitations but will strive to improve.
Farrier, who I believe is a good one with years of experience, squared
the back hooves and shortened his breakover point once I told him he
was forging. He stopped forging until he became tired on long rides
(understandable). When he and I are paying attention and I am working
hard at keeping him collected and he is calm, etc...ramble on.... he
doesn't forge. This, keep in mind, is with the squared off back
hooves.
His shoes were pulled a couple weekends ago for the winter. I had the
farrier examine his feet carefully before pulling, any signs of uneven
wear or tear, etc...none. He thought his feet looked great.
So, when he is reshod: should I have his shoes set "normal" and start
at square one as if he never forged before? If he forges, should I try
Ti's longer back length, shorter angle front or square his back again?
Should I get him trotting out on soft earth in his bare feet to see if
he is forging? He's never nicked himself. I didn't realize squaring
the back was considered "drastic". I do expect to get a lot of arena
work /collection training for him accomplished this winter as well as
balance /posting correctly work for me (on a well trained horse I'm not
allowed to take off the ranch), before he is reshod.
Thanks to all who have participated in this discussion..I'm learning
tons. We do the best with what we have to work with. It is not always
a perfect world so please don't condemn any of us who are not 100%
perfect riders. I am one of the "catch-up" crowd but no way ashamed of
it.
ps, I'm on archives now so feel free to email me privately too....
Kimberly (&Mystery the Morab..."I'll trade this lunge line collection
crap for the trail anyday....but she says its good for me! )
Petaluma, CA (where the sun if finally shining and we'll be rid'in! )