For my training program Jac is right on track. In this video he has been in training with me for almost two months. In that two months I have worked him 27 hours and 15 minutes. It is possible to train a horse faster by working them longer during each session. With a two year old this is the pace I choose.
The bigger area encourages more forward motion which is good because Jac is on the lazy side. I am doing more clucking/kissing/bumping than I ultimately want to but I allow it at this stage of the training. Keeping them mentally quite, which looks like physically lazy, it is a version of sacking one out and it makes them less reactive which is easier to ride.
I am mostly working on his steering and forward motion. He is very relaxed because I am not picking at him. My hands are smooth and quiet and he reflects this in his smooth and quiet over all look. I am using a dressage whip also and I change where the whip is used (inside or outside) depending on what needs to be reinforced.
I’m still reading him; he has a lot of natural rate-all I have to do is stop pushing him forward and he wants to stop, he is telling me about himself. He has a natural jake-brake built in. Generally this is a good sign for one wanting to slide.
Twelve days ago he had his wolf teeth pulled and teeth floated. He responded well to the dentist; look how quiet he is being with his mouth.
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What are your thoughts on starting horses by wearing spurs? I was told if you use them, use them from the start.
I don’t but others do. Here is my blog on what I do use spurs for. You can ask those who do use them from the beginning and then consider the answers and make your decision.
I was wondering to myself, ‘Why would one have a 2 year old horse’s teeth pulled and floated?’. Then you explained it. My boy has wolf teeth, and he is about 6. Sometimes he acts like he absolutely HATES the bit being in his mouth. Do you think that could be part of the problem?
It is worth checking it out. A great equine dentist can do amazing things and just like human doctors they come with varying degrees of excellence so I even get second opinions at times.
[…] you watch Stacy’s Video Diary: Jac-Episode 21 you will see an example of a horse that is in the 3rd grade. Jac gives to the bit from side to side […]
It seems a bit ridiculous that people are asking if you are deaf. Isnt that a rumor that was squelched and put to rest years ago? Anyway, I am really really enjoying and appreciating your video diary. It is helping me in training my 3 year old. Thank you so much!!!
why was Jac limping ?
That will be next weeks Diary….
I really enjoy your blog. But I need one question due to persistent rumor on Facebook. Are you deaf? I need it cleared up.
No. Here is my blog posted back when the rumor first started, Is Stacy Westfall deaf/mute?
really live the video
Wow I thought theses videos were current but by the leaves & no snow I know it’s not now.
Episode 1 gave the starting date for the videos as March:)
I love this Stacey he seems very laid back. Makes me miss riding 🙂
He’s so beautiful, I can’t wait to see him doing all the things that Roxy did. I hope he is OK xx
He’s such a handsome boy! He really carries himself nicely.
O no now I am so worried the way that left off…….’What Happened to Jac?’
He is so handsome. He looks like he is really listening, or in time with you already. I’m so glad to see another Jac video :). Thanks Stacy!