One of the things that most people realize about endurance riders is the
high level of respect and care they give their horses. If the horse APPEARS
to be in good condition, but isn't really, it will be the horse, and
ultimately the rider, who suffers. A false recovery rate is just plain stupid.
A horse that has been properly prepared for 25, 30, 50 or 100 mile rides has
to be among the most pampered horses on earth. The only potential I see for
abuse in endurance is taking a horse that is NOT prepared to a ride--and
trying to hoodwink the vet at a vet check into thinking the horse is okay.
The "you know you are an endurance rider when...." jokes I think reveal the
great attitudes of most people in this sport toward their horses.
"You spend more money on shoes for your horse than yourself" is just one
example.
I can't say I've talked to show people more concerned about lameness, safety
of trailers, the fit of shoes and saddles, the comfort levels of pads, etc. etc.
Susan B. Felker
Black Ridge Arabians
Route 1 Box 647
Floyd, VA 24091-9797
540-593-2117 felker@swva.net
Straight Crabbet, pure English GSB-eligible, and Crabbet/Egyptian/Polish
Arabians for halter, performance, and companionship.
Open House Sunday, July 14, 1996 from 1 to 5 p.m.
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