Another tip would be to teach the horse to target, either your hand or an external target. It's what I did to my gelding as he learned if he was really quick he could just grab the carrot from my hand and didn't have to hold still. He still gets treats but know he knows he must touch and hold his nose to my hand until I click to get the treat so there is nothing to "steal". He is much calmer doing his exercises now. ☺️
As long as the horse does not get rigid or braced, I do try to fix the crookedness. If, however, the horse tenses or resists this adjustment, I will allow the posture to correct itself over time as we work through other stretches.
Do you have any other great ones for a horse on stall rest (splint in this case)? Trying to find good activities for him to keep some level of strength and flexibility without risking further injury.
Check out my video about Pelvic Matrix. Also, my book 55 Corrective Exercises for Horses (on website at www.JecBallou.com) has lots of exercises for this kind of horse. Good luck!
Another tip would be to teach the horse to target, either your hand or an external target. It's what I did to my gelding as he learned if he was really quick he could just grab the carrot from my hand and didn't have to hold still. He still gets treats but know he knows he must touch and hold his nose to my hand until I click to get the treat so there is nothing to "steal". He is much calmer doing his exercises now. ☺️
That was a pretty great smile!
When their head is crooked in a stretch, do you try to correct or will it correct itseld over time as you do the stretches?
As long as the horse does not get rigid or braced, I do try to fix the crookedness. If, however, the horse tenses or resists this adjustment, I will allow the posture to correct itself over time as we work through other stretches.
@@jecballou Great- thank you!
Do you have any other great ones for a horse on stall rest (splint in this case)? Trying to find good activities for him to keep some level of strength and flexibility without risking further injury.
Check out my video about Pelvic Matrix. Also, my book 55 Corrective Exercises for Horses (on website at www.JecBallou.com) has lots of exercises for this kind of horse. Good luck!
Tried these today - my horse tends to step backwards - I’m not sure if he is doing it as it’s just easier or if he is tight ?
yes, they will often adjust themselves to get comfortable.
How do you stop them from bending the knee?
I often walk them a step forward and re-position.