No matter how many rules, no matter how many autopsies, no
matter how many vet checks 2 mile from the finish, no matter how careful we try
to be, no matter how mean or tough our vets are, no matter how much we riders
and participants try to police others., horse deaths will probably continue to
occur. We are no different than even pleasure riders who have been known
to ride a horse to death from stupidity or just plain not knowing better.
No matter how many rules or restrictions we make there will always be someone
who will figure out a way to get around them. Having been in and riding
this sport for over 30 years, deaths are fewer. Folks are wiser, folks
tend to do their homework better. I would not want to go back to the 70s
and do what we did then. We have come along way baby and we have a long
way to go yet. Ultimately the final decision of how that horse is ridden
is up to the rider. Most of us are in love with our animals and do the
best we can. BUT you can't outguess and prevent everything that is bound
to happen. There are some who don't care. I find that those folks
don't last long. Most of us are outspoken and tend to tell someone off
when we see an abused horse that is being pushed beyond its means.
Newbies, you will get there too. I think our sport tends to attract
attention because we really WORK our animals. Most riders or horse owners
have no idea what working a horse means. I remember a training ride I was
doing in the metro park of Cleveland. Old Charlie was humming along, he
was fit, his recoveries were great, and I knew he was just fine. I went
past some pleasure riders "Oh my, your horse is sweating!" was the
comment. Mine was "my horse is working!" I don't think they got
it. How horrified are folks when they see you offering your horse water
while your horse is sweating? Horrors they cry. They just plain
don't get it. Others are just horrified when they see you throw a wet
horse out to pasture. They don't realize that that horse has already
recovered to low heart and respirations and can be turned out. Imagine
making your horse sweat in the winter. Well, distance riding has taught me
what a horse is capable of doing and how to take care of the horse. My
horses have better care now than when I was just a pleasure rider. I
wouldn't give this up for anything. I continue to learn and meet folks who
are as crazy about riding as I am. That is what it is all about.
Jeanie
