VETTING THE TASK

It’s important that a horse can physically complete the behavior you request. This sounds obvious, but it’s a very common problem. Trot poles are a great example. You’ve probably seen them---usually four poles laid on the ground, spaced so that the horse places one step between each pole at a smooth trot. These poles can be used at a walk or canter as well, but the spacing is crucial---it varies from three feet to

14, depending on the horse’s size and gait. And three inches of variance in spacing can spell the difference between failure and success. Riders often attempt to trot their horses through poles that are too close together. The horse either fumbles or balks---of course! An impossible task has been set: What else can he do? Unaware of the problem, the rider raises the poles---or gets larger ones---in an effort to make the horse pick up his feet. Some use crops or spurs to move the horse into the ill-set poles more rapidly, as if that will help.

When you have trouble with a horse, ask why. Maybe he didn’t notice your cue, failed to understand it or can’t physically perform the task you requested. Have consideration for the horse who won’t hop a cross-rail because the soles of his feet hurt when he lands, the cob who isn’t long enough to canter a 12-foot stride, and the gentle giant who can’t possibly trot through poles set for a Shetland pony.