Pinto Photos (warning, Lots Of)

[Casey76]

Hi Maria

It doesn't put me of riding, just riding the canter  When he rushes about in trot, it's fine I just get on and deal with it.  I think if I could get over the whole "oh sh**************t" bit right at the very beginning I'd be better, but then again maybe not! My group lesson has a lot of people in it now - there were 9 last Thursday, and when everyone has to canter in a group it really does give me the heebejeebies.

On your other note, Pinto can't (wont?) counter canter  :blush: if you shift your weight to the wrong side, or change the bend, he just changes leg.  He does the most wonderful changes, you can't even tell when your riding.  I don't think I've ever seen him go off on the wrong leg in the manege, and outside if he canters for a while he will naturally change leg from time to time (or if he swerves round other horses  <_< )  

[Ali jo]

I think Maria's right though, getting someone who is capable of schooling a horse at a certain level that can help that horse rebalance and carry the rider proplerly would be helpful.  You are doing a great job with Pinto  (and I am not saying this as a critisism just trying to be helpful) but he does not look like he's had a great deal of schooling.  As you say your both learning but he could do with an experienced guide at times and looking at his canter I think some of the rushing is because he's running on his forehand and needs to learn how to balance properly.  Transitions and circles are the way to help him and it would be very hard for you to do that in a group lesson with nine of you.  I know it can be hard and I don't know your circumstances but some individual tuition and some schooling for Pinto would be ideal if you could get it.  Mind you riding with others is fun and good to do but nine is a big number and I fully understand why you are reluctant to go careering round in that context.  

Oh and your photos are great I hope you keep updating us on your progress      

[shoveltrash]

i always love piccies of Pinto  

were i you, i would try very hard to teach him to lunge correctly/calmly.  do it in VERY SMALL STEPS.  i mean, take him out & get him to circle on the lunge once or twice CALMLY, then praise & end the session!  build up on that slowly, so that he equates "calm circles on the lunge" with "reward".  
this will translate to your under saddle work.
have you read Dr. Andrew McLean's book "The Truth About Horses"???
it would REALLY be beneficial for you i think.

you have a lovely pone - and i'm envious of his exuberance!!!!  :lol: