One of the things I've come across repeatedly in my horse shopping ventures are the different perceptions of a horse's training and levels of "broke".

Many sellers will even state that the horse has had 30, 60, 90, or 120 days professional horse training in their ads to help clarify its level of "broke". But what does it all mean?

Training can vary by trainer and riding discipline, so 30 days with one trainer could bring a different result than 30 days with another. The amount of training in a 30 day period usually ranges from 3 days per week to every day. So you could see how a horse that goes through 3 day per week training (12 days total in a month) would vary from a horse that is worked every day in a 30 day period.

Also, different riding disciplines and some horse breeds may require different types of training, which can affect the overall training timeline. For example, gaited horse training is different from a non-gaited horse and a dressage horse training schedule would vary from western horse training. 

So if you're in the market for a horse, make sure to ask specific questions about the horse's training to get a better idea of exactly what you're working with. How much training? What type of training (ground, riding, driving, etc.)? Did they use natural horsemanship training techniques? How often has the horse been worked since it returned from training? What challenges did they come across? (And if you're looking to sell, don't forget to check out my tips on How to Sell a Horse Online!)

And if you're looking to send your horse off for training, it is important to look beyond just the cost of training when comparing potential trainers. Find out how often your horse will be worked and what part you will play in your horse's training. Most importantly, start by setting reasonable expectations with your trainer so you can measure the end result.

(Click Here to see how the Rymar Ranch in Florida defines expectations for 30, 60 or 90 days of professional training.)

Cowboy Logic of the Day

"There's a lot more to ridin' a horse than just sittin'

in the saddle and lettin' yer feet hang down."

On Sunday August 29, equestrians will ride the trails of Rose Oaks County Park in Holly to raise funds to help establish horse-friendly trails in Northwest Oakland County. If you're interested in participating, contact Merle (248)-624-1409 or visit www.headwaterstrailsinc.org. Donations are only $20 (plus, bring a dish to pass for the 4 p.m. Potluck dinner!)  

Registration is Noon - 1:30 p.m.

Come down for a nature ride, to learn about the park 

and get a chance to win a prize for the best poker hand! 

Rose Oaks County Park 

1132 Fish Lake Road, Holly, MI 48442

This month, the ASPCA filed a legal petition with the USDA to strengthen it's enforcement of the HPA (Horse Protection Act), most specifically against the act of horse "soring".

According to the HSUS, horse "soring" is an illegal training method which "involves the intentional infliction of pain to a horse's legs or hooves in order to force the horse to perform an artificial, exaggerated gait." This is most often associated with Tennessee Walking Horses and other gaited breeds.

For more information and to find out how you can

help in the fight against equine cruelty, Click Here.

Beautiful is a 4 year old black Shetland cross pony. She is easy to handle and likes treats. She is going to make a nice kid's pony some day. She is also gaited! 

For more information or to meet Beautiful, call 269-965-2117 or 269-924-6595 or Email.

Or for information on some of the other adoptable horses

that EARTH Services has to offer, CLICK HERE!

buzzd

from Georgia!

CONGRATULATIONS!!

Thank you to everyone that entered the drawing and make sure to keep following "Horse Sense" for future giveaways!

After completing my DIY Vaccinations post (and with a little push from our favorite farriers, Koren & Tim of TK Hoof Care 248-431-3775) I decided it was time to take my horse ownership to the next level and learn how to trim my horses' feet. And by "learn" I mean try my hand at the very basics, under the supervision of a professional, with no intention of making it a habit. 

Check out the video below to see how I did!

 Oh, and please don't try this at home :)

Cowboy Logic of the Day:

"If you want to forget all your troubles, 

take a little walk in a brand new pair of high heeled ridin' boots."

My name is Babe or my nickname is Lightning as I shoot across the field like a bolt of lighting. I'm a quarter horse/morgan mix, 10 years old and am a black bay mare. I ride and handle great and have great ground manners. I'm great for trail riding. I ride off alone or in a group. I have get up and go and can spin a hole over the top of a dime, but no problem stopping. I was recently taken around the 4 mile country block and had no problems. I'm not spooky and cars and tractors do not bother me. 

For more information or to meet me, call 269-965-2117 or 269-924-6595 or Email.

Or for information on some of the other adoptable horses

that EARTH Services has to offer, CLICK HERE!

REMINDER:

In just a few days we will be selecting the winner of the $40 gift certificate to CSN stores.

It is super easy to enter (click on the link below for details), so don't miss your chance!

And if you've already entered, don't forget to refer a friend or post a link to the giveaway for additional entries!

Click Here to Enter!

Here's proof that even the most "Bomb-Proof" horses have their quirks...