Re: [RC] ponying--do they learn anything? - Barbara McCrary
I don't think it teaches them to just blindly
follow another horse. It teaches them to reach out and see the world
outside of a corral. They become accustomed to crossing creeks and
bridges, etc. in the company of a more experienced horse, so that when they have
to deal with the obstacle on their own, they are more secure. It also is a
way to leg them up and become more sure-footed before you ever mount up and
ride. It's a valuable tool.
Hi all...been ponying my new mare out on the trail. SHe's pretty
good...doesn't spook, stays at my knee unless single track then follows. Even
have gone out with a few other horses that "acted up" and she remained calm.
She's a lookie loo but no spooks or balks. This is the mare that is totally
green on the trail but has arena experience.
I'm thinking of riding her out today with a calm babysitter gelding
she knows. Will the ponying experience "transfer" to me riding? I don't want
to push her too fast...but I have been working with her a month and think it
is time.
I'm wondering what ponying teaches them. I'm hoping it doesn't teach them
to just blindly follow another horse.
