Re: Running Martingales

[Terry canavello <canajello@echoweb.net>]

I was once told by a top German dressage trainer to think of a running
martingale is a razor blade..not to be taken lightly, and to be used carefully
and quickly.  It is a powerful tool, exerting lots of leverage on a horses
neck and head. Sometimes it is necessary, but if it becomes a daily ritual,
something is wrong and another solution should be found for the problem.
	
	I found a Western snaffle/curb with a chin strap solved my problem with my
Arab who had learned how to toss his head to avoid the bit from his scared
previous owner. Simply crossing the reins over his neck and letting he and the
bit discuss the problem solved the whole thing quickly and easily. Now he
travels on a loose rein like a champ.

	Just my amateur two cents worth..My other observation is that if we were to
gather 100 horse people into a room to discuss this or any other problem we
would have 101 different opinions!!! Love us all!!

Terry