by Marilyn Pineda I love teaching trailer loading here at Fire Mountain Trail Course! There are so many types of communication and elements of confidence that come into play when a horse is comfortable with trailers. In my Riding Well Grounded article about impeccable timing I discuss loading a … Read More
by Brent Rollins Now that you can lead and touch your mustang, it is time for groundwork. With groundwork you will be addressing all areas of desensitizing. Flagging is an excellent desensitizing method that uses a small flag attached to a training stick or whip. When flagging, don’t put … Read More
Prepare Your Horse to Cross Frozen Puddles by Mark Bolender When trail riding in the winter, early spring, and/or late fall, you can expect to find frozen puddles. The crackling sound of breaking ice often catches horses by surprise, putting the rider at risk of being dismounted when it … Read More
by Marilyn Pineda We often hear the phrase “be the alpha mare” when given the description of how to relate to our horse if we desire its respect. But what does that mean, and why is it important? Are you the “alpha” with your horse and, if not, how can … Read More
by Brent Rollins So, you’ve decided to adopt a mustang, the first step to the most loyal partner you will ever have. What should you expect during adoption and those critical first days with a wild horse? Mustangs are unique in the fact that they are looking for a … Read More
How to Find Your All-Around Forever Horse by Allison Trimble The economic downturn saw many people moving away from the competitive show pen, but not out of horses. Commonly, buyers are now looking for one horse to be their partner in all things. I see a new trend in people … Read More
The allure of the American Mustang by Brent Rollins There is something special about the American Mustang. I have been around horses all my life and have experienced many breeds including Arabians, Quarter Horses and even draft horses. My family has always had horses, so I guess you could … Read More
How to Master a Challenging Obstacle by Mark Bolender An extreme trail obstacle that most horses hate is the squirting water box. This is a standard water box, but floating on top of the water is a 4’ x 8’ piece of plywood that has holes drilled into it. … Read More
Calm Persistence Avoids a Battle by Marilyn Pineda We recently held a play day on a beautiful weekend in October here on our Fire Mountain Trail Course. Twenty-one riders turned out, ranging in ages from 3 to 85, and represented many levels of experience. The play day was fashioned … Read More
How to Practice the Figures for Show Day Success by Michelle Binder-Zolezzi Once you have established a venue for western dressage in your area it is time to start practicing the figures. At a recent cowboy dressage event, Eitan Beth-Halachmy said to me, “Without figures there is no training.” … Read More
