Cari Swanson

Brentina in Idaho

On a recent trip to Sun Valley I met the famous Brentina and her rider Debbie McDonald at their beautiful stable in Hailey Idaho. The mountains are a gorgeous backdrop to the outside arena. The weather was perfect for riding and it was a treat to see this world class training facility. The proud owner Parry, was a gracious host who says that of the top 40 or so international-quality dressage horses in the world, he’s “got three of ’em in his barn in Idaho,” referring to Brentina, Donatello, and rising 5-year-old star, Felix. Parry refers to Felix almost as a freak; he is so elastic and athletic. His hind-foot overreach at the walk is almost a full foot, and his overall 5-year-old class score in LA was a whopping 9.5. They think he may be the best one yet.

Camp Cari at Windrock Farm

Luck of the Irish

Beau jumps around Fitches corner with Kayla Burns, recently imported from Ireland and purchased by Kayla on her birthday,
he is from the Ginger Dick line of jumpers.

Patience is Golden Rule

With time and patience you can teach your horse to accept anything around his head, neck and body, thus preventing any spooking out on the trails or in the arena. There are several simple excercises that will help you develop trust and confidence with your horse.

Safety is the most important thing to always consider when introducing something new to your horse. Stand at his shoulder, use your right hand to place on his neck and your left to hold and control the rope. Place a short piece of rope around your horses poll, through his mouth like a bit and feed the end through a loop at the other end of the rope. (See photos for clarity). Take care not to allow the rope to drape to the floor or you may step on the end of the rope resulting in punishing your horse at the wrong moment and setting you back in your work.

First start with the rope excercise to lower your horses head, put your hand on your horses neck and gently ask him to lower his head, if he resists simply put pressure on the rope by pulling downward, the second he drops his head release the pressure and repeat until all you have to do is rest your hand on his neck just below his ears.

Gradually put more pressure on him by using a plastic bag or a piece of plastic wrap to rub on his neck and body, never release the pressure if he is tense and moving away from you.

Working on the ground will improve your work in the saddle tremendously. This is a highly effective excercise with any horse at any time in his training.

New YouTube RJ Video