08/06/2024
After losing my boys, and taking a break from showing for the last 4 years, I have done a 180 in my horsemanship.
As the Olympics bring light to the questionable things we allow in this community I figured it would be a great time to talk about some things I wish I knew better about when I was younger.
Had I known better, I would have never put Romeo in a kimberwick. The damage I caused with this bit alone took a YEAR of fixing.
Due to me abusing this equipment (I do not think any horse needs this in their mouth, mind you) I caused my horse to stop at fences. I thought that I had enough “control” to put his feet where I wanted them. Completely lacking knowledge of correct riding.
Romeo only did what he thought I was asking him to, stop before the fence while I cropped him to go on. As you can imagine this got us into some trouble.
Fortunately I realized what I was doing, and decided to go completely bitless, and turn him out for two weeks. I wanted my horse to have a break from me as I figured out how I was going to approach fixing a problem I know I caused.
I’m so thankful Romeo was such a forgiving horse. He taught me so much even in his passing. There’s so much I would change now if I had the chance. However I am glad that I was able to recognize my own mistakes 10 years ago.
Ever since 2018, there have been a grand total of three horses who have left my property/ ownership who have not successfully and safely been ridden in a neck rope. Out of 20+ horses I’d say that was good.
When we know better, we do better.
I still have such a long way to go and soooo much to learn on this new journey of horsemanship as I step back into it after a much needed break.
Below are some photos of my boy in the kimberwick and bridless.
I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences on your own horsemanship journey.
This post was heavily inspired by Milestone Equestrian
