Beeman's Better Deal

Simple voice commands

Teaching your driving horse simple voice commands and learning how to present those commands clearly makes for a much safer drive.

The importance of Whoa

The third herd rule is "move when I say move" which also means "wait until I say move" Whether trying to mount a riding horse or climb aboard your carriage, having a horse that waits until you ask her to walk off is much safer and more enjoyable to be around. Note I stop her, then throw her slack.

Introducing changes of direction

It is important to allow the young horse to move forward freely so that she can feel you preparing her for the change of direction. Notice I start on the left rein and I am bumping the right rein to maintain impulsion. As I prepare to change direction I allow my left rein to slide through my hand as I say "hello" on the right rein. As I begin begin traveling to the right I am bumping my left rein to keep her out on the circle.

Litchfield Hills Driving Club: Talk on Standing Still

I have been invited to speak at The Litchfield Hills Driving Club monthly meeting in Plymouth, Connecticut on Friday Feb. 19th at 7:30pm.

I will open with an explanation of my approach to horses and people then address the common issue of standing still. A question and answer session will follow if time allows.

All are invited at no charge. If you wish to join the club, membership is $25.00  a year. For more information and directions contact Beth by phone (860-542-6085) or via email: Beth at loonmeadowfarm dot com.

Getting the horse to go forward

This filly is pretty stuck on her friend who is tied to the wall at the left of the screen. She blocks and evades my requests to go forward at the trot, wanting to stop and stand by her friend.

Backing Straight

This little filly tends to try and push through you with her shoulders and will present her hindquarters to you in a challenge. She also swings her hindquarters around in evasion.

Approaching the shoulder

This clip is a pretty good example of a horse blocking. I want to walk to the horse's right shoulder, but he is using his head and neck to block me from approaching him on that side. Most people do not see or recognize when a horse is blocking and therefore do nothing about it.

Head Down and Lateral Flexion

Every horse responds differently. No matter the response it is important to release the pressure only when the horse tries to do what you are asking and not to change what you are asking while the horse is trying to learn what you want.

Reluctant to Catch

We all wish our horses would come up to us with a smile on their face like this first little mare. But more often than not our horses would rather stay with their herd.

Desensitizing the Young Horse

This clip is an excellent example of the correct use of pressure and release. When introducing touch to a young horse in preparation for grooming, blanketing, saddling, or just plain handling it is extremely important to know when to “back off”