Re: RC: Spanish Mustangs: learning curve

[Laney Humphrey <laneyh@mbay.net>]

Hi Sally -
    I also have a Spanish Mustang so I'll take this
opportunity to defend the breed.  IMHO you have just described conformation
features that can be found in all breeds.  It's true that Spanish
Mustangs aren't built like the breeds we see more often but that doesn't
mean they can't get the job done.  (I happen to think they can get
more jobs done better than a lot of others!).  Before you blame your
horse's weak rear end why not also look at saddle fit, girth fit, and your
riding.  I changed girths the other day and Dino just wasn't moving
in his usual way (he is one that floats up and down hills in spite of his
"small" rear end).  I assumed it was because he was wearing a breast
collar for the first time but when I unsaddled him I saw that the girth
had pinched and rubbed sore spots on both sides - boy, did I feel bad!!!!
    Deb Bennett has a lot to contribute but like all
other "experts" should be taken with a grain of salt.  And focus on
the horse in front of you, considering more than just textbook conformation
(or pedigree in reference to another recent thread!).  I agree that
there are different types of Spanish Mustangs/American Indian Horses/Spanish
Barbs and also some are built better for endurance while others work best
at other jobs - just like in other breeds - and, hopefully, we won't ask
any horse to do a job it can't do.
    Deb Bennet has been very enthusiastic about Spanish
Mustangs but I don't think Dino would get high marks in her conformation
books even though he has one type of classic SM looks which make him appear
heavy on the front end even though he isn't at all: his neck is thick at
the base. But his shoulder is incredible and, because his croup is low
and sloping, he can really get his rear under himself.  He doesn't
look like an arab but he's a joy to ride on the trail and at the moment
his job at 4yo is babysitting my friend's 6 yo arab mare as she gets started
on the trail.  Dino has always gone everywhere and confronted everything
with bravery and good sense.  (Can you tell I love this horse?!!!?)
Three cheers for  Spanish Mustangs!
Laney
 
 
 


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