All around the world, people gain great pleasure from riding and handling their horses. It’s a wonderful feeling when your horse learns to co-operate and try his hardest for you. And I’m sure that the horses enjoy the mental stimulation and the exercise they receive from good training. However, your horse won’t do anything because … Read more
The problem everyone has with their horse is being able to walk, trot and canter when they want, where they want, at the exact speed they want and to have their horse relaxed and confident at all times. That’s it – pure, simple and uncomplicated. Problems are never about establishing your place in some horse … Read more
People write to me all the time asking for help with their horses. “My horse is barn sour.” “My horse is herd bound.” “My horse has separation anxiety.” “My horse shies.” “My horse rears.” “My horse kicks.” “My horse bucks.” “How can I fix him?” No matter the problem, my answer is always the same. … Read more
See my Starting a Horse Under Saddle Online Clinic here.
These days, we live in a world of political correctness gone mad. Many people say it’s wrong to use a bit or to tap a horse with a stick or touch him with a blunt spur. “It’s cruel” they say. This is complete nonsense. When a young horse is confident and relaxed, introducing a bit, … Read more
Next time you see a horse being chased in a round pen, please ask yourself: What’s the answer for the horse and how can he get out of being chased? What does the trainer actually want the horse to do? If the trainer wants the horse to face him or follow him, why not show … Read more
You must have control whenever you ride or handle your horse. Control doesn’t mean being heavy-handed and it doesn’t mean that you have to dominate your horse or show him who’s boss. Control simply means that your horse tries his hardest to work out what you want him to do and he tries his hardest … Read more
Below is a call for help that came via my Facebook page. For privacy reasons I’ve changed the person’s name. However, nothing ever changes when it comes to catching horses. … “Hi Neil. I’m sure you get a million messages a day, but I’m praying you will respond. We have recently purchased a lovely 12yo … Read more
Imagine putting your beloved pet dog on a long lead and chasing him round and round with a flag on a stick. Imagine chasing your dog away from you every time he tries to come to you. Imagine flapping a tarp or flag at your dog until the only thing left for him to do … Read more
You must build every horse’s confidence, every step of the way. See my Foal Handling Online Clinic here.