Re: Hackamores & etc.
Reynolds, Nikki (jakar@aiinc.com)
Sun, 26 Jan 1997 09:35:42 -0800
ROBERT J MORRIS wrote:
>
> -- [ From: ROBERT J MORRIS * EMC.Ver #2.5.02 ] --
>
> I find the discussion about hackamores, the use, description and all that a
> bit disconcerting. A smattering of research shows that what most people are
> discussing has no connection to the actual hackamore.
>
> The word hackamore is an americanization of the jacquima. The jacquima is a
> type of equine head gear consisting of a bosal (the nose piece) the hanger
> (head stall) the fiodor (the throat latch) and the macate (the reins).
>
> As with any good horse, these components that make up the hackamore, serve
> only to pass a signal to the horse. They are not used to STOP the horse at
> all.
>
> I cringed every time I see someone wanting to know what device will stop
> their horse or at least slow it down. The bit is not for stopping the horse.
> The bit is for signalling th eanimal that you want it to do something and
> your entire body then gives the command.
>
> Why do people think, for instance, that pulling back on the bit will stop
> the horse when the legs are squeezing and the body is urging for more speed!
> !! Look at a good reining horse sliding to a stop. The reins are fully
> slack and the rider is out of contact with legs and has stopped riding.
>
> In my egotistical opinion (that means a not so humble opinion) if you cannot
> ride the horse on the trail with just a halter then you need to do some more
> work. Not just on the horse but also on your self.
>
> When you can ride with the halter you will be relaxed (a bonus for the horse
> ) you will be trusting the horse (another bonus for the horse) your horse
> will be able to eat and drink better ( another bonus for the horse) and
> every one will have a lot more respect for your horsemanship (a big bonus
> for you).
>
> Let's take it from there, think of the horse, horsemanship and let's stop
> looking for the "quick bandage".
>
> Bob Morris
> Morris Endurance Enterprises
> Boise, ID
I'll second that wholeheartedly!!! My twelve year old son and I both
ride our Arab gelding with just a halter most of the time. I use a
snaffle if I'm working on suppling and balance though. I still haven't
quite figured out how to use my body to get the correct responses
consistently while using a halter, but we're getting there gradually. I
have to do the "book learning" and trial and error methods. All it
takes is time, practice, and (I know I sound like your mother), wear
your helmet just in case!
I've used a halter for riding my last three or four horses with no
problem. It's probably best to start with a rope halter in an arena
alone with your horse at first. I don't think I'd want to find out my
horse doesn't want to cooperate with me while riding in the open and in
company like the endurance entry mentioned earlier! ~Nikki~