Re: NATRC/endurance

[CMKSAGEHIL <CMKSAGEHIL@aol.com>]

My problem with NATRC is not the "theory" but the practice of things that I
find detrimental to the health and well-being of the horse.  They talk
horsemanship, but insist that the horse remain tied at times that a good
horseman would be out walking and caring for his horse.  They only recently
have relented on electrolytes--again, part of good horsemanship is knowing
whether, when, and how much.  The tying regulations (how long a rope, what
kind of knot, etc.) are also open to interpretation, as there are horses that
are "safe" in circumstances that others are not, horses that can untie
"standard" knots, etc.  Again, horsemanship is doing your training at home and
knowing your own horse.  As a veterinarian concerned with the health, safety,
and well-being of the horses, THESE are my main objections to NATRC as opposed
to other CTR organizations.  As a rider, I do not find purpose in the pseudo-
obstacle courses, etc., but am willing to live and let live, as there are
folks who do.

Heidi Smith, DVM--Sagehill Arabians (Oregon)