ridecamp@endurance.net: Re: Endurance Dogs

Re: Endurance Dogs

Sullys Maze (Sully@Forsythe.Stanford.EDU)
Fri, 13 Jun 97 22:51:37 PDT

REPLY TO 06/13/97 21:49 FROM ridecamp@endurance.net: Re: Endurance Dogs

Hi; as a ride manager, I would not allow a dog on the trail during
competition. You don't know how other horses might react. As a rider,
there are other riders that like to bring their dogs along during
conditioning rides. Well one day my horse spooked, bolted, and bucked me
off....Not Fun! Then, you're moving right along,,,,and,,,,The Dog decides to
squat, scratch or what ever in the TRAIL in front of you,,,,or the owner is
constantly yelling for the dog. Just doesn't make for a pleasant ride...So
I'm the "Old Grouch" and they leave their dogs home when they ride with me.
ct of LV

---I have got to agree that on organized rides and horse camping, I
am also the "Old Grouch" about folks that bring dogs. There is
nothing more annoying than dogs wandering around camp getting into
your stuff, or barking when their owners go off on a ride and leave
them in camp.

BUT, I believe there is nothing better for conditioning horses than
a bunch of dogs comming along. Dogs chasing ahead, crashing through
the bushes, stopping in front or running under your horse is the
absolute best way to de-spook a horse and get it used to anything or
everything on the trail. My big mare used to be really spooky and
jump at anything that moved. This was not enjoyable. Since riding
her out with dogs (mine included) for 2 years, just about nothing
that moved on the trail will spook her. I am lucky to live in an
area where it is okay to bring dogs on the trail, and have been even
given permission from BLM to take my dog on BLM land. I would NOT
take my dog on trails where it is not allowed. Mine just seems to
trot along behind-he is too dumb, fortunately, to chase wildlife.

I know people that crab about some of us bringing our dogs on rides.
Well, if they are worried about a dog spooking their horse, what the
heck are they going to do about all the deer, jackrabbits, turkey
vultures, coveys of quail and everything ELSE that might spook their
horse!!??

And, if you are going to HAVE a dog, as so many people seem to, why
have one and leave it penned at home, if you DO have the opportunity
to exercise it?

Getting back to the original question, my Rhodesian Ridgeback and my
friends Border Collie cross have no problem doing 25 to 35 mile
rides. My friends dog went on a 50 mile ride with her, and that
night was chasing a stick around.......

Karen

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