Changing Disciplines

Sometimes it just feels right to stop what you have been doing and go in a different direction. That is where I found myself when I returned to Arizona a month ago. Last year I spent the entire winter season training Minnie, my Welsh Cob mare for dressage. Dressage rider and trainer, Allison Hardas consulted with me once a week about what what we needed to work on and then she competed her. Minnie learned so much. The best thing she learned, was to try her best to understand what was being shown to her. It engaged her mind and helped her balance her body. We ended the season with the Level 1 USDF Reserve Championship for Section D Welsh.

Here’s the thing, she is done with it. Going around a ring only holds her interest for a limited time. When I returned to Arizona after she had 6 months off, she made it very clear that she would rather not move a muscle in the ring. I am not willing to put on spurs and use a whip, that isn’t the relationship I want with her. I have to say, she is a very clear communicator. I am not attached to any particular discipline, what I am attached to is a good relationship with my horse where we both can have an opinion and enjoy our time together. I considered what she was telling me and put the bit and dressage tack away. I put a trail saddle on her and a bitless bridle and we have been headed out on the trails… to be continued.