Need help finding your favorite H&R article from 2012? This complete list of 2012 articles should help.

Al Dunning’s How’s My Riding?
"Sitting Pretty,” Practice Pen, Jan., pg. 32
“Hard-Working Pair,” Practice Pen, Feb., pg. 32
“Trail-Course Prep,” Practice Pen, March, pg. 32
“Al Says, ‘Relax’” Practice Pen, May, pg. 46
“Small-Fry Horsemanship,” Practice Pen, June, pg. 28
“Rail Work,” Practice Pen, July, pg. 38
“Fence Work,” Practice Pen, Sept., pg. 40
“Reining Prep,” Practice Pen, Oct., pg. 40
“Schooling Session,” Practice Pen, Nov., pg. 34
"Sit Up in the Saddle," Practice Pen, Dec., pg. 34

Barns, Property Maintenance
“Melt Ice Safely,” Your Horse, Your Life, Jan., pg. 18
Stable Gear: “Stall Fronts,” Jan., pg. 64
“Savvy Storage,” Your Horse, Your Life, Feb., pg. 20
“Spring-Clean Your Barn,” Your Horse, Your Life, March, pg. 20
“Messy Job Made Easy,” Your Horse, Your Life, March, pg. 20
Special Advertising Section: “Barn & Ranch Makeover,” March, pg. 57
Stable Gear: “Barn Carts and Caddies,” April, pg. 78
“Nip It in the Mud,” May, pg. 80
“How to Handle a Hay Shortage,” June, pg. 56
“Three-Pronged Fly Control,” Your Horse, Your Life, June, pg. 30
“Small Size, Big Benefits,” Your Horse, Your Life, June, pg. 28
“Tack Theft—Now What?” July, pg. 68
Stable Gear: “Barn Fly Control,” July, pg. 78
“Winter-Prep Steps to Take Now,” Your Horse, Your Life, Sept., pg. 26
“Easier Hay Soaking,” Your Horse, Your Life, Oct., pg. 24
Stable Gear: “Winter Water Options,” Oct., pg. 70
“While You Wait,” Your Horse, Your Life, Nov., pg. 20

Behavior
“Sore Back; Foal Eats Manure,” Whole Horse Q&A, March, pg. 14
“Hematoma; Saddling Woes,” Whole Horse Q&A, April, pg. 14
“Rearing to Go—In A Bad Way,” Problem Solvers, June, pg. 88
“Club Foot; Sometimes Spooky,” Whole Horse Q&A, July, pg. 20
“Trailering Fears; Bowed Tendon,” Whole Horse Q&A, Aug., pg. 12
“Pasture Predator?” Your Horse, Your Life, Aug., pg. 19
“Clinician On Call,” Aug., pg. 43
“Keeping Kelly,” Aug., pg. 62
“Trailering Fears; Bowed Tendon,” Whole Horse Q&A, Aug., pg. 12
“Popped Splint; Trail Fears,” Whole Horse Q&A, Sept., pg. 14
“Barn Sour; Shoe Boil,” Whole Horse Q&A, Oct., pg. 15
“Eye Discharge; Pulling Back,” Whole Horse Q&A, Nov., pg. 12

Bob Avila’s Winning Insights
“Breeding Time Machine,” Practice Pen, Jan., pg. 30
“How Not to Lose,” Practice Pen, Feb., pg. 30
“Don’t Skip the Basics,” Practice Pen, March, pg. 30
“Tire Kickers,” Practice Pen, April, pg. 33
“Industry Update,” Practice Pen, May, pg. 38
“Horse Divorce,” Practice Pen, June, pg. 45
“What You Need to Succeed,” Practice Pen, July, pg. 36
“Know When to Quit,” Practice Pen, Aug., pg. 32
“Neck-Reining: Part 1: Introduce the Concept,” Practice Pen, Sept., pg. 34
“Neck-Reining: Part 2: Introduce the Curb Bit,” Practice Pen, Oct., pg. 32
“Neck-Reining: Part 3: The Romal Advantage,” Practice Pen, Nov., pg. 28
"Rules of Engagement," Practice Pen, Dec. pg. 26

Breed, Show Associations
“Did You Know? Surprising Facts About 10 Breeds,” Jan., pg. 50
“Once More, for the Memories,” Your Horse, Your Life, Feb., pg. 18
“New National AQHA Championship for YOU!” Your Horse, Your Life, Feb., pg. 18
“Important USEF Drug-Rule Changes,” Your Horse, Your Life, Feb., pg. 18
Gallop Poll: “If Wishes Were Reiners,” Your Horse, Your Life, Feb., pg. 18
Have You Tried: “Entry-Level Reining,” Practice Pen, Feb., pg. 38
“New Show Options for All Breeds,” Your Horse, Your Life, March, pg. 18
“Happy Birthday, APHA!” Your Horse, Your Life, April, pg. 18
“PtHA, AQHA Innovations,” Your Horse, Your Life, May, pg. 20
“Inudstry Update,” Practice Pen, May, pg. 38
Have You Tried: “Saddle-Log Programs,” Practice Pen, May, pg. 48
“Save Big at AQHA Novice Championships,” Your Horse, Your Life, pg. 24
“Painted ‘n Pretty,” Your Horse, Your Life, pg. 24
“Genetic Test for Appaloosas Now Available,” Your Horse, Your Life, June, pg. 26
“Arabians Slide to Paychecks,” Your Horse, Your Life, July, pg. 24
“AQHA Video Delux,” Your Horse, Your Life, Sept., pg. 20
“Find a Trainer, Help a Youth,” Your Horse, Your Life, Sept., pg. 20
“Philanthropy at Pinto World,” Your Horse, Your Life, Oct., pg. 22
“Numbers Up at Quarter Horse Shows,” Your Horse, Your Life, Nov., pg. 18
“ACTHA Rides Benefit Service Members,” Your Horse, Your Life, Nov., pg. 18
"Not Too Common: Grullas," Your Horse, Your Life, Dec., pg. 16

Q: My 10-year-old all-around gelding has started trying to nip at my hand when we set up for inspection, as well as when we stand in the lineup during showmanship. He’s really good at showmanship, other than this new quirk. How can I break the habit?
—Jordan Meyer, North Carolina

A: This is a pretty big fault in showmanship classes. It’s a learned behavior—somehow, your horse has been made to feel that crowding your space and even nipping at your hand is OK. It’s certainly not, and can even become a safety issue for you as a handler. His nipping behavior can then lead to resistance when leading and less responsiveness to your cues. Both are also faults in showmanship, and just bad manners for general handling.

Incorrect

Photo by John Brasseaux

It’s imperative that you instill respect in your horse for all aspects of handling, whether for showmanship or everyday groundwork. Part of that respect is the horse staying in his own space. It’s also necessary to let the horse know that he can’t control you by invading your space or nipping at your hand.

I’ve heard people suggest poking at the horse’s muzzle when he tries to nibble, but I don’t recommend that. Jabbing at your horse’s face only serves to make the problem worse. You’re getting in his space when you poke at him, when what you really need is for him to get out of your space. Also, he’s likely to jump back when you poke his muzzle, so it’s not a tactic you could use at a show without disturbing the horses on either side of you in a lineup.

Correct

Photo by John Brasseaux

Start by checking to see if your lead shank is so short, that your horse doesn’t have any choice but to get in your space.  Also, never hold the lead shank by the chain.

With your hand position in check, use the following steps to remedy your horse’s unwanted behavior.

When your horse gets in your space, use a long, slow pushing motion to move him back into his own “bubble” and out of yours. Using this less-aggressive approach, as opposed to poking at his muzzle or jerking the chain, means your horse won’t develop a jumpy mindset when you get into his space. Once his head is back in his own space, get yourself back into proper showmanship position. Repeat the pushing motion every time he gets in your space, no matter if he nips at your hand or not.

Use a long, slow pushing motion to move our horse out of your space and back into his own.

Photo by John Brasseaux

If your horse only exhibits this behavior in the show pen, plan regular mock showmanship classes at your barn. It’s likely that your barnmates also have horses that cheat at something or have developed bad show-pen habits, so everyone will benefit from the faux class. Get all the “exhibitors” lined up, like you would in a class, and ask someone to act as “judge.” Put your horse in the scenario he experiences in a show class, so that you’re setting him up for the chance to act out, all the way from inspection by the judge to the entire class being lined up for placing. The only difference in the mock show is that points and prizes aren’t on the line, and you can correct his space-invading behavior without true penalty. If you go to a real competition and your horse acts out, don’t hesitate to correct him—consistent correction is key. Continue to show him that he can’t get away with this behavior in any situation. Don’t ignore his nipping in hopes of winning a ribbon. By doing so, you’d reinforce his belief that the rules are different when he’s in the show pen.

After moving his head away, go back to proper showmanship position.

Photo by John Brasseaux

One final word about mouthiness: This behavior can develop from feeding treats. It’s easy to see why, if you hand- feed your horse treats on a regular basis, he’d search your hands—and nip—for treats. If you must feed treats to your horse, try doing so from a bucket, so he doesn’t associate them with your hands.

Sara Simons, Aubrey, Texas. A past APHA Leading Exhibitor and winner of more than 30 world titles, Simons trains horses and coaches youth and amateur riders from Simons Show Horses, which she owns with her mother, Andrea, and sister, Jana. She’s an approved judge for APHA, NRHA, and NSBA.

Be prepared for your first show with these extra tips from our Facebook fans and top trainers.

Legend:
• = Facebook fan; ◊ = Trainer/judge

• Watch a similar show before you enter, and ask for assistance, if need be. If you’re prepared, it’s more enjoyable for you and your horse, your family and helpers, the show secretary, and everyone else.
-Bobbi Finarty

• Make sure you know where things are packed; band the night before you put on the sleezy; and make sure your hat and boots are clean and ready to go.
-Kathy Good

• Pack everything in the trailer the day before. That way, the only thing you have to do before you leave is wash your horse.
-Sharon Yotka Laskowski

• Bring along extra feed for your horse and extra clothes for yourself------you never know how the weather could change.
-Helena Baker

◊ Before your show, go to Lowe’s or the Home Depot and find a paint swatch that matches your horse’s color. Take it into the Estee Lauder counter at the mall and ask the employees what colors look good with the swatch. Base your shirt’s coloring off their recommendations. Top it off with neutral or muted-color pants, chaps, and hat.
-Karen Banister, Colorado

• ‘Go with what you know.’ If you practice something one way and see it differently at the show, don’t change your whole program in five minutes.
-Irene Davis

• Have a class schedule in your room, tack room, and trailer, and highlight the classes you’ve entered.
-Glenna Bartlett

• Read the rulebook ahead of time and make sure that your equipment and attire are in accordance with those rules.
-Kaye Helton-Anderson

◊ Remember, it’s not about the best horse and rider; it’s your presentation, too.
-Karen Banister, Colorado

• Get plenty of rest for you and your horse the day and night before.
-Helena Baker

• Go to bed early and never forget to have fun!
-Mariève Paquin

• Bring lots of fly spray for your horse and sunscreen for yourself.
-Brandy Kirwan McIntosh

• Try to learn something from your fellow competitors.
-Jennifer Gomez

◊ A bottle of green spot remover and a rag is a must for every horseshow kit.
-Kelly McDowall, Colorado

• Always go to the restroom before entering a large showmanship class!
-Ken Duft

◊ Don’t get freaked out about the fact that you’re freaking out. Find something that calms you and settles your mind and do it at the show.
-Karen Banister, Colorado

• Practice at home, acclimate your horse to crowds, other horses, and lots of noise before the show.
-Tanya Rentz

• Remember, you’re only out there to do your best. Some day, your best will be <i>the best</i>; that’s how you win. By not worrying about your competitors, you can focus on yourself!
-Katie Schmidt

• It’s called a warm-up pen for a reason: Train at home. Warm your horse up and see what you have. It’s likely less than you have at home, so learn to show that.
-Heather McLevin

◊ Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you see someone at the show who looks like they’ve done it before and if you need help, ask them. We all work very hard at the show, but almost every last one of us is willing to help someone who’s new.
-Kelly McDowall, Colorado

• Pack a cooler with water and Gatorade, plus some nutritious snacks to keep your energy level up.
-Catherine Gallant

◊ Consider giving your horse an immune booster injection before you haul him------particularly if it’s a long haul. It’ll help keep him from getting sick on the road.
-Tommy Garland

• Know your pattern: write it, say it out loud, and walk it.
-Roxanne Peters

◊ If your horse isn’t used to traveling, get him out. Trailer him to the local Dairy Queen and have a sundae or take him to the county fairgrounds. Affirm to him that it’s OK, and create a confident attitude.
-Karen Banister, Colorado

• Even if you’re scared or intimidated in the arena, stand, sit, or ride as though you have the best horse in the world. Every class and show is a learning experience.
-Sharie Belew

• If you get nervous, sing to your horse. I still find myself singing “Amarillo By Morning;” it helps!
-Kassie Fay Tabor Cumbee

•Try not to make major clothing changes unless the classes are well spaced. Also, wear a tank top under jackets if you have back-to-back classes. That way, you can change jackets ringside.
-Laura Calentine

• Be a defensive driver. Don’t be so in ‘the zone’ that you forget about the traffic around you in the pen!
-Tina Krichbaum

Sad tales of neglected and abandoned horses seem to be everywhere---in the news, on Facebook, on flyers at your local feed store. Photos of thin horses with drooping ears and dull eyes tug at your heartstrings. You want to help, but it can be hard to know what to do.

I’ve been involved in the effort to help horses in need for more than 14 years, and I am currently executive director of Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society in College Station, Texas. When I started out, few equine rescues existed in the United States, but today there are hundreds across the country. Most are run by good people doing necessary work, but the rapid growth of the rescue industry has far outpaced regulations to govern operations, and we don’t yet have a formal trade association to provide direction and guidelines.

As a result, every so often reports appear about neglected horses discovered at “rescues” run by animal hoarders or by well-intentioned people who found themselves in over their heads. Even worse are the “rescuers” who are simply defrauding their donors. Although these people are the exceptions, their actions give rise to many misconceptions about equine rescues that may stop people from volunteering, donating money or even adopting a horse in need. Because good rescues provide vital services to their communities and the horse industry, it is time to debunk the most common myths and understand the truths behind them.

Myth #1: All rescues are the same
Reality: Each rescue is a unique organization with its own policies and procedures, fundraisers and management staff.

I hear this myth more than any other: When I ask for a donation, someone will tell me they already gave to us---at a fundraiser for a different rescue, or someone who wants to adopt a horse will tell us they have already been approved because they applied at a different organization. I’ve even been told that “you guys are all just part of one big organization.” This misconception becomes damaging anytime the authorities seize animals from a bad rescue for poor care or when adopters believe that a rescue treated them unfairly or misrepresented a horse they took home. Those people might then avoid all rescues under the mistaken belief that we are all the same.

Here are some ways in which rescues differ:

• Private versus 501(c)(3). If a nonprofit organization qualifies for 501(c)(3) designation from the Internal Revenue Service, it doesn’t pay income tax on the money it raises and your donations to it may be tax-deductible. 501(c)(3) organizations must have a board of directors and make their financial information available to the public.

Private rescues are often run by a single person or a very small group of people rather than a board of directors. Donations to these groups are not tax-deductible, and they’re not required to make their records public. They are required to pay income taxes on any money they receive from fundraisers, adoptions, etc.

• Sanctuaries versus rehoming organizations. Sanctuaries provide lifelong homes to horses in need; they do not offer any for adoption. This means that sanctuaries can help only a limited number of horses: Once a sanctuary is full, it must wait until a horse dies before bringing in another.

Rehoming organizations do place their horses with adopters, but many rescues of this type also offer a limited number of sanctuary spots to horses they deem unadoptable for physical or behavioral reasons.

• Intake methods. Horses can come to rescues from auctions, racetracks, owner donations or law enforcement impoundments in cases of abuse or neglect. Some rescues focus only on horses coming through one route---racetracks, for example---but many take in those from a variety of backgrounds.

Myth #2: My tax dollars support rescues, so they don’t need any more from me
Reality: Rescues do not receive local, state or federal funding.

The only exception might be when a city or county contracts with a rescue for assistance in handling neglect cases and stray horses, but most often rescues perform these services at no cost to their local communities. When owners are found guilty of neglect, the judge may order them to pay restitution to the organization for expenses incurred while assisting law enforcement and rehabilitating the horse or horses, but rescues rarely receive the funds they’re awarded.

Because we don’t receive government support, rescues must raise the funds necessary to care for their horses through adoption fees, fundraising events and direct-mail solicitations. Before you throw out the next invitation to a fundraiser or the letter asking for a donation, please remember that the rescue sending it doesn’t see a penny of your tax dollars and needs help for the horses in its care.

Myth #3: Rescues get services and items for free, so their expenses are minimal
Reality: Although many rescues receive some discounted services and donated items, no veterinarian or farrier is always able to work for free or even discount his or her services. And many expenses can’t be discounted or donated.

For example, here are some of the 2011 expenses for the organization I run: $5,178 for insurance, $1,968 for postage, $33,061 for veterinary care, $1,900 for burial expenses for deceased horses, $10,830 for gas or mileage reimbursements for trailering horses, $6,875 for training horses, $8,386 for advertising and $2,306 for mileage
reimbursement for volunteers.

Myth #4: Everyone who works at a rescue is on salary
Reality: Some rescues have paid staff, but many do not.

The majority of rescues rely solely on volunteers. The oldest and most established rescues have paid staff, but even they rely heavily on volunteers to get everything done.

This means that someone is probably not available immediately to answer your calls or e-mails, and you may have to wait a few days for a reply. It also means that volunteers are often performing their rescue job after work or on the weekends and aren’t available during weekdays.

Myth #5: Rescues never enforce their contracts, so I can do what I want with my adopted horse
Reality: The purpose of the adoption contract is to ensure that the horses are placed in good homes. Most rescues follow up on their contracts. Rescue personnel perform follow-up visits not only to see that the horses are cared for, but also to make sure that the adoptive owners are happy with the arrangement. If someone violates the terms of an adoption contract, he or she may lose the horse and be liable to the rescue for the cost of enforcing that contract.

Myth #6: Rescues are happy to take in my old/lame/unsuitable horse
Reality: Most rescues can’t take in owner-donated retirees.

Some people want to use rescues as free retirement centers for horses they no longer need while still directing their care and visiting them. Most rescues do not take owner-donated horses, and those that do often have little room or resources for animals with serious medical needs or behavior problems. When a rescue does take in a donated horse, the animal is signed over to the organization and the owner waives all rights, including the ability to visit.

In general, rescues help neglected horses, those whose owners can no longer care for them, and others in serious need. They are not there to take in horses whose owners simply have no further use for them.

Myth #7: Every horse at a rescue is kept until he dies of natural causes
Reality: Rescues have limited funds and must often euthanatize horses.

While answering the phones and e-mails for my rescue, I’ve often spoken with people who want us to take in their older, ill or injured horse. Often a veterinarian has suggested that they euthanatize the horse, but they don’t want to. They believe that the best solution is to turn the horse over to a rescue, which will keep him healthy and happy until he dies of old age. However, rescues don’t have unlimited funds, and we sometimes must euthanatize a horse because we can’t spend thousands of dollars to treat an illness or injury.

Donating a horse who needs to be put down is unkind. Not only is he ill or in pain, he is then also uprooted from his home and taken to an unfamiliar place full of strange people and horses. Many scared or nervous horses may never settle in and relax before their life ends, surrounded by strangers. It is also unkind to put rescue personnel into that position. We care for our horses as if they are our own, and every decision to end a life is emotionally draining.

One story remains fresh in my mind. Years ago, our organization took in any horse whose owner didn’t want him, and we often received those who should never have been put on a trailer: Moon was one such horse.

Moon developed laminitis, and her owners managed her for several weeks before donating her to us. I followed the care instructions they gave me, but the mare worsened. When my veterinarian arrived to examine Moon, she quickly recommended euthanasia. I knew she was right, but I still cried. I cared about Moon and had hoped for a pain-free future for her. We laid her to rest, and I avoided the barn for two days.

Several months later, Moon’s former owner arrived at my barn demanding to see the horse. When I told her we’d put Moon down, her reply was, “Oh, I knew she needed to be euthanized. But I didn’t have the heart to do it, so I brought her to you!” Years later, I still ache for the horse I couldn’t help and feel anger toward the owner who forced me to make the decision she wouldn’t face.

If your horse needs to be put down, please, take care of him at home, in comfortable surroundings. Don’t pass that decision on to another person who has had to make that call far too often.

Myth #8: Rescue horses are used up or worthless
Reality: Rescues have all kinds of horses. Some aren’t sound for riding, but many can do anything any other horse can do.

Often, when I suggest that someone consider adopting their next horse instead of buying or breeding, I’m told, “I don’t want to adopt a horse---they’re not good for anything!” The person may go on to tell me she once saw a rescue horse who was lame or blind or crazy. And then I’ll hear, “Besides, if no one else wants them, why should I?”

Just because a horse is unwanted or neglected doesn’t make him worthless. Many may be sound, well-bred animals who landed in our care after their owners fell on hard times. We have many horses who are young, sound and can be trained for anything.

Storm’s story illustrates that point. The courts placed Storm with Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society after removing him from negligent owners. He was emaciated when he arrived, but fortunately, Storm recovered quickly.

After he was trained to ride, he was adopted by a teenage girl who met him and fell in love. And that was the beginning of an awesome career for Storm. He and his rider joined a 4-H drill team, and their wins have included a first place at their district competition. They’re also showing in English pleasure, Western pleasure and sidesaddle in open shows, and Storm has made it to the state semi-finals in team penning. He helps athletes who compete in Special Olympics horse shows through the S.H.A.R.E. (Special Horses and Riders Excelling) organization, and he took his rider to the regional and chapter Special Olympics shows in Western equitation, English equitation, trail, barrels and showmanship.

And yet Storm is just one of thousands of rescue horses who are com-peting, trail riding and working across the country. So the next time you are looking for a new horse, don’t overlook your local rescue. You may find a diamond in the rough who can become your next champion and companion.

Myth #9: Donating money or fostering or adopting horses are the only ways I can help
Reality: Rescues need volunteers in many areas.

Running a rescue takes an enormous amount of work, and since most rely heavily on volunteers, there’s likely to be a job for you, no
matter what your skills. Here are just a few possibilities:

• Trailering. If you have a safe trailer and an appropriate tow vehicle, you may be able to help with picking up horses, taking them to veterinary clinics and transporting them to their foster homes.

• Visiting foster or adoptive homes. Most rescues will inspect potential homes before allowing their horses to go to them, and they may also schedule follow-up visits later. This is an easy job that is a good fit for someone with a camera who enjoys meeting other horsepeople.

• Investigating neglect complaints. The rescue may offer neglect/abuse- investigation training classes, or they may need experienced horsemen and horsewomen who can accompany local law enforcement out on calls.

• Doing routine horse care. Reliable, experienced horsepeople may be needed to do daily chores, such as feeding, cleaning pens or stalls, grooming, or showing horses to prospective adopters.

• Training. Many horses arrive with little or no training, so rescues appreciate help from professional trainers and experienced horsepeople who can help prepare them for adoption.

• Fundraising. Bringing in the money necessary to keep a rescue going is a nonstop concern. Volunteers are always needed to organize and participate in fundraising.

• Marketing, public relations, accounting, writing and more. In many ways running a rescue is like operating a business, and all the same professional skills are needed. If you have a skill you would like to use to help horses, a rescue can help you put your experience to work---and it looks good on a resume, too.

Whether you are looking for a new horse, have some time to give, or can donate money or equipment, I hope you’ll consider visiting a rescue and helping out. It really does take the horse community working together to improve the lives of the horses who need us.

About the author: Jennifer Williams, PhD, is the founder and president of Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society located in College Station, Texas, and the author of the book How to Start and Run a Rescue. Williams received her bachelor of science in psychology and minor in equine science from Truman State University, formerly known as Northeast Missouri State University. Later Williams earned her master’s and doctorate in animal science from Texas A&M, where she focused her studies on equine behavior, learning and welfare.

In the July 2012 issue, we gave you an update on Jacks Vaquero, aka "Cowboy." The senior gelding is now teaching 4-year-old TJ Hammond of Idaho to ride. We first introduced our readers to Cowboy in the April 2006 issue. Review that article below.

A tiny girl sits atop a nondescript brown gelding. They’re waiting to compete in a barrel-racing class for riders 5 and under at the Washington State Junior Rodeo Finals in October of 2005. The girl’s tawny hair is tucked neatly under a straw hat; her babyish face is doll-like. Her legs reach only halfway down the horse’s sides.

The gelding begins to prance slightly, his neck bowed obediently to his rider’s hand. The girl’s mother leads the pair down the alleyway and turns them loose in the arena, then stands aside, holding her breath.

The girl leans forward and the gelding sprints toward the first barrel. As he nears it, the girl sinks into the saddle and the horse wraps himself around the metal can, digging in with his hindquarters and bending through his middle. He finishes the turn and springs toward the second barrel.

“This isn’t the first time this horse has done this,” drawls the announcer. Just short of the second barrel, the gelding switches leads, and again the girl sinks into the saddle. The pair spin around the second can, perfectly synchronized, and leap toward the third. One more tight, neat turn, and they’re headed for home. The girl stands in her stirrups and shoots her rein hand forward, urging her gelding on with everything she’s got. The horse responds with a surge, tripping the electric eye at a full gallop.

Their time makes them the only pair in their age group to break the “teens”; they win first place. The girl smiles happily and claps her horse’s neck.

The mother smiles too, blinking back tears. Twenty years ago, she was the little brown-haired girl on this same gelding, racing around barrels, winning prizes. To see her daughter now, running and winning on this cherished, aged horse, brings the most exquisite flush of emotions.

But—we’re getting ahead of the story. It begins two decades earlier, in Lewiston, Idaho. It’s the tale of Jacks Vaquero, also known as Cowboy, the plain little Quarter Horse with the great big heart.

Though a rodeo star, Cowboy also excelled in other disciplines. here he stands perfectly for Jami, then 9, at a Lewiston 4-H show in 1986.

Photo by Johnny Rynearson

Sensible Colt
It was July 2, 1981. Jami Yochum (the mother in our opening vignette) was only 4 years old, but she remembers the day vividly. It’s when her parents, Johnny and Debbie Rynearson, took her out to the pasture to see a little brown colt, just 1 hour old. A colt intended to be Jami’s own someday.

The Rynearsons and their two daughters lived on five acres in a rural part of Lewiston. At the time they had 18 horses, some on their own property and others boarded in nearby pastures. This newest foal carried the blood of several American Quarter Horse Association Hall of Fame luminaries, including Poco Bueno and Two Eyed Jack (see “Cowboy At A Glance,” page 2). “We were firm believers in Two Eyed Jack horses,” Debbie recalls. “You could do everything with them.”

Though bred for success, the colt perhaps didn’t appear so at the time. “I remember thinking he looked a little like a mule,” says Jami. “He had that typical light ‘muley mouth’ that true brown horses do, and big ears. But he was cute and well muscled, and also friendly, curious, and unafraid. I got to pet him, and he didn’t act bratty and try to bite like some of the other babies I’d been around.”

The foal, registered as Jacks Vaquero, came to be known simply as Cowboy (English for vaquero). At the time of his birth, Jami was already becoming a skilled rider on her talented Shetland Pony. Over the next four years, the 10-hand-tall Candy would carry her as Jami learned to love a variety of events, including barrel racing, pole bending, breakaway roping, and goat tying.

Cowboy, meanwhile, was growing and impressing everyone with his levelheadedness. “I remember clipping his ears when he was a weanling,” Debbie recalls. “I used big clippers—they were awfully loud—but he didn’t even move. If I hadn’t already known it, that alone would have told me he was special.”

Adrenaline Rush
In the winter of Cowboy’s 2-year-old year, Jami’s father started him under saddle. An experienced horseman who helped his neighbors with their young stock, Johnny found the newly gelded horse to be calm and willing from day one.

“He’s the kind of horse you could ask to climb a tree, and he’d say, ‘Which one?’” says Debbie. “I remember riding him across neighbors’ land to cutting clinics on cold, snowy days in the winter of his 3-year-old year, and he was great. He wasn’t all that interested in cattle or the cutting machine, but he walked out smartly to get there and let us expose him to a bunch of different things.”

Cowboy and Scout barrel for home at the Washington State Junior Finals in Ellensburg.

Photo by Laura Rogers

By the time Cowboy was 4 and Jami was 8, the Rynearsons felt the two were ready for each other. Jami started riding the 14.1-hand gelding under her parents’ supervision, while continuing to show her Shetland. Then, one day in 1985, things changed forever.

“A local barrel-racing club my mom had founded was having its finals competition,” Jami recalls. “I ran Candy in the first run of my age group, then tried Cowboy in the second. He was so much faster, so much more powerful! It gave me an adrenaline rush. I had complete confidence in him, though, so it wasn’t scary,just incredibly fun.”After that,the pony was retired, and Cowboy became Jami’s steady partner.

“He was and is a quick learner,” Jami says. “In addition to barrel racing and other rodeo events, I did everything with him—trail riding, 4-H fitting and showing, Western pleasure, showmanship, trail. He excelled at it all.” A clever horse, Cowboy also excelled at untying himself. “He’s a regular Houdini,” says Jami. And though a kind, quiet eye is one of the gelding’s best traits, he’s not a lapdog sort of horse. “I wouldn’t say he’s standoffish, but he’s not at all cuddly,” Jami explains. “He definitely doesn’t like being petted around the head.” Other quirks include a loathing of llamas (“something about the smell,” Jami thinks) and a passion for Twizzlers red licorice (“he can eat a whole bag”).

His most distinguishing eccentricity, however, is something his family calls “the Cowboy shuffle.” It’s the little strut he does just before and after he makes a run.

“He doesn’t get hard to handle; he just takes these short little steps and is very perked up,” notes Jami. “It’s how we know he’s going to win.”

Or will you?

As an adult amateur who’s competed and won at this level since I was a youth exhibitor, I’ve learned there’s more—much more—to a first-place go than being a good rider on a good horse. While those attributes may get you to the arena gate, they’re essentially the same ones your rivals possess. For your best shot at finishing in front of them, you need another set of attributes, ones that add up to planning, planning, and more planning. You need to know how to create a ready-to-win roadmap, with no detail left unmanaged, and no controllable element left to chance. Otherwise, the smallest chink in your preparatory armor can be all it takes to ruin your chances and leave you making a long, disappointed drive back home.

Using this month’s World Championship Quarter Horse Show in Oklahoma City as my example, I’ll jump-start you on learning how to draft your own big-show blue- print. I’ll share the process I use to plan for the health, comfort, and safety of my World-winning gelding, Zippo LT (“LT”). I’ll give highlights of how my trainers and I peak him for top performance at just the right time. And, I’ll provide extra key tips known to veterans of the major shows, but often learned the hard way by first-timers.

Create A Team
Though you may picture yourself as the one in the spotlight, winning at competition’s upper level isn’t a do-it-yourself project. Even if you have the skills, confidence, and experience to show without the aid of a professional trainer, you’ll still need assistance from other people invested in your success. That’s why it’s important to create a team of people you can depend on and fully trust to help with every detail. The sooner you begin to build your team and establish a good working relationship with each member, the better off you’ll be.

Your trainer, vet, farrier, and parents, or significant other are among those whose help you’ll count on. Others, who may not be so obvious, include such helpers as these: the mechanic who’ll service your rig for the trip; the friend or family member who’ll take care of your place while you’re gone; the dry cleaner, seamstress, and hat shaper responsible for making your outfits look like a million; the co-worker who’ll take up your slack at your job; the driver, paid or unpaid, who’ll help get your horse to the show; the best friend who’ll be your emotional sponge; and the assistant (trust me, you’ll need one) who’ll help you get ready for your classes. Every exhibitor has a unique set of needs, so you might need other helpers as well.

While each of your team members will have a separate job, their cumulative efforts will add up to one critical benefit—the freed-up mental space you’ll need to devote full concentration to your performances. The fewer things left for you to worry about and to pour precious energies into doing yourself, the sharper you’ll be when it counts.

Start Early
The November AQHA World Show requires pre-qualification, so it’s only natural to want to kick back, relax, and rest your horse after you’ve earned the necessary points earlier in the year. But don’t make the common first-timer mistake of giving yourself a month to get ready. That’s not enough time, especially if you also go to school or work at a full time job. My trainers and I begin getting our game plan together four months out, which means we start in July.

One of the first things I do is schedule a thorough vet exam for LT, including vaccinations and bloodwork. If he has any issues, such as need for supplements, this leaves enough time for them to be corrected before the show. Keep in mind that you’ll be putting your horse into an ultra-stressful travel and show environment. He’ll need all the health help you can give him. Also remember to book a date for getting his pre-trip health and travel papers issued. You don’t want a forced delay in departure simply because results of your horse’s Coggins test aren’t back yet.

I also plot out my horse’s farrier appointments for optimal timing. LT’s shoes are reset every six weeks, and I want him freshly shod at least a week before he leaves for the two-week show. That leaves enough time for him to recover from any minor soreness, but also means I have to think ahead to get the timing right.

Other advice: This isn’t the time to make drastic changes in how your horse is shod, or to try out a new farrier. You could hurt your campaign more than you help it by venturing into the unknown.

If you’ll be hauling your horse yourself, use part of your lead time to get your truck tuned up, your tires checked (or replaced, if necessary), your trailer’s floor and wiring checked, and so forth. Plot your route. If you’ll need to lay over, know where you’ll stay and where you’ll put your horse for the night. If you intend to use a shipper, as some exhibitors do to minimize travel stress on themselves, get the space booked and confirmed early on. Ditto for your hotel room.

Get your order in early for any new clothing, especially if it’ll be custom and require fittings. Send your show hat out to be professionally cleaned and shaped. The latter task’s more important than you might think, because a clean, crisp hat makes a good first impression. At showing’s upper level, it’s all about the details, and this is one of the easiest for you to control.

I love George Morris because he has so much insight and wisdom in the hunter/jumper world. I look forward to seeing his articles in Practical Horseman Magazine!
Jenna Williams, Texas

George Morris. For the simple reason that he is the god of the hunter jumper world. I mean, he literally wrote the book on hunt seat equitation! Without question the single most influential man in the history of jumping in the United States.
Melissa Davis Walker, Texas

My riding idol is and always has been Margie Engle. She was one of the first major riders I got to meet as a teenager and she was such a sweet, genuine person and always took time to sign autographs and take pictures with us fans after a Grand Prix, whether she did well in it or not. She has always been my role model.
Free Tack, via Facebook

My riding idol is my trainer. She always has the right piece of advice to master a new skill, a new point of view to perfect the old skills. She has the right exercise to brighten a not-so-good ride. Every time I ride, I pick up something new because of her. She pushes me to my limit, but only gives me what I can handle.
Rachel M, North Carolina

Without a doubt my riding idol is my dad, a true horseman in every sense of the term. I said to him when I was a boy, “Wouldn’t it be great if humans and horses spoke the same language?” Over the years my dad taught me that the time one spends in a nurturing relationship with his horse, similar to that of a loving parent and child, will pay off tenfold in the future, Done with care, that horse will eventually want to show just how fast he can run and how high he can jump.
Kurt “Shepherd” Lidtke, Oregon

Currently I look up to a fellow rider in my barn “Lara” she works full time, trains hard and sets goals for herself and accomplishes them. I told the trainer I am going to follow the LARA PROGRAM of dedication.
Chris Cole, Washington

Bert de Némethy, Bill Steinkraus, Michael Matz and Joe Fargis, because horses come first.
Virginia Gillis, via Facebook

My riding idols are great women I share a barn with! They have taught me to not give up, that I AM a good rider and to just love my horse and live for the moment! We are all at different stages in our “horse” lives and each of us brings special wisdom that everyone can draw upon. HOORAH to the ladies of Broken Down Farm!
Kim Schmittendorf, via Facebook

My riding idol is my trainer because she has taught me everything I know. My headstrong thoroughbred is tough to handle, but my trainer has taught me to sit back, take a breath, and SLOW DOWN. She is an amazing rider and has blown me away with her skills on a day-to-day basis. I find myself looking up to her and not famous riders who don’t teach me to better my riding every day.
Katie Grothen, via Facebook

My riding idol is Beverly Strauss, director Midatlantic Horse Rescue. She buys horses who are off of the racetrack, rescues some from sale barns. She cares for and rides these young horses, to get them to a level of relaxation so they can be adopted for new jobs. This is not easy or with out risk, but Bev loves and believes in the potential of these beautiful young horses. Every one has a busy life, job and family. Bev works her life around saving these horses. She also is involved in Pony Club and fundraising for the rescue.
Ann Lyons, via Facebook

My rider idol would have to be my old trainer Liz. She taught me everything I know about horses and she was like an open book about anything. She went through everything from the correct diagonal to cantering around the ring bareback with no reins and my arms out as if I was flying. I’ll never forget her, and I would be lucky to ever become as great a horsewoman as she is. It was a shame she went off to college because I would miss the connection we shared, but the memories will stay with me for a lifetime.
Juli Thomas, via Facebook

William Steinkraus! He respected our sport, he respected the horses. He never accepted good enough. They say we try to achieve perfection but can’t reach it. We probably can’t, but Steinkraus did! The style he used and his number of accomplishments are an inspiration to anyone wanting to ride.
Lee Johnson, Texas

My riding idol by far has to be George Morris. He is an AMAZING rider and teacher. When I am preparing for a show I always read anything he has written. Many times I have read his articles before shows and have mostly gotten reserve champion. I wouldn’t be half the rider I am today without him. He is an amazing, skillful, graceful rider, and I will always idolize him for that.
Logan Mumford, Virginia

My riding idol is Anne Kursinski. She’s a top-notch professional and a wonderful teacher. She’s aware of all aspects of horse care, not just training. I live in New Jersey and I’m dying to take a few lessons with her!
Courtney Krajcik Freund, New Jersey

As one watches the Grands Prix, Olympics or the World Cup, the riders are skilled, but nonetheless, they are not always the best riding role models. With dirty boots, hair in a ponytail, abusive kicks and smacks to the horse’s side (usually portraying the riders mistake), and the snooty comments to us jumpers in the lower levels, not every parent or trainer wants their student or child to grow up and behave in this manner. Lane Clarke exceeds the criteria for a Grand Prix rider in my book. His riding ability is exceptional: he glides with the horse over 6-foot verticals and barely moves as the horse canters the course. When a ride goes wrong, he does the best thing for the ride, usually a tap behind the leg for pace or a “whoa” to give the horse fair warning before it gets slowed by the bit. Most of Lane’s rounds are videotaped, giving him the ability to learn from the mistakes instead of repeating them into bad habits. Off the horse, he is friendly and kind to everyone, with no hint of malice after a loss towards the successor. Most riders will wave other ogling fans away, when Lane is modest enough to wave away the praise and have a friendly conversation. Even though there is an eleven-year age difference between us, I feel as though I can relate to Lane in his youth. When I ride, I aspire nothing more than to be like Lane Clarke, the best rider in my understanding.
Taylor E.Moore, California

Dr. Sherry Ackerman, author of Dressage in the Fourth Dimension, is my riding idol. She embodies the power of being in the moment and striving for oneness with the horse. Watching her ride allows me to see that riding is truly an art form to be developed through practice and presence.
Marcy Criner, South Carolina

I would have to say Boyd Martin is my idol! He has been through so much lately with his father passing and the barn fire. He’s still riding and going strong after all that happening! It’s the perfect example of when something bad happens you have to just keep doing what you love to do and everything will work out!
Megan Pustarfi, Georgia

My riding idols are everyone I’ve ever trained with. There are only so many times they can yell, “Look up! Lock your arms!” I’ve learned the hard way a few times. They’re usually right!
Breann Nicole, Florida

My mentor, Christine Boehle of Precision Training of Rogue River, Oregon. She allowed me the honor of apprenticing under her for 2½ years and her confidence, ease and grace in the saddle, either Western or English, is something to behold. She is my riding idol.
Karen Johnson, Montana

My riding idol is the former head of the jumping department at Meredith Manor International Equestrian Centre in West Virginia: Michelle Estep. I rode under her for a year and a half and learned more in that time than I did after riding for 6 to 7 years under a different trainer. She helped my confidence so much and she pushed me when I needed it. I have come such a long way since riding with her; she is the voice in my head when I ride. She is one of those trainers the does what she teaches. If we had a problem with something when she rode she would work it out and then relay to us. I will never forget the time I had riding with her. And hope to be able to ride just like her some day.
Laura Jane Waldron, Georgia

As much as I admire George Morris, I think my idol is going to have to be a trainer whose name, sadly, I’ve forgotten. (We went through a lot of trainers at that barn.) She was easily the meanest trainer I’ve ever ridden under but she did wonders for my position in the saddle. She also had a steel rod in her and had been told not to ride again. So naturally she did exactly what the doctors said not to. She couldn’t ride long and always limped when she walked but she rode anyways.
Jamie Edgerly, Florida

My riding idol is my mom, no matter how dorky it sounds. She has achieved so much with so little. She has inspired me to compete, win and own my riding business. She started her business with absolutely nothing and became the most popular barn in town to where she had a waiting list because all she did was win and strive to be the best even with metal plates and rods in her back. I pray that I will one day be as successful as she was and hopefully strive to be more but a heart of determination like hers is going to be pretty hard to top!
Chandalyn Chrzanowski, Georgia

My trainer, Alison Flury, because she has not only helped me advance into a better rider, she’s given me confidence in the saddle.
Dee Sousa, Illinois

I find Maryland dressage rider Julio Mendoza absolutely inspirational. He clearly loves his horses; it is hard not to enjoy watching him work. I have seen him at the Horse World Expo a couple times, and the whole time he works his Friesians around in FEI-level dressage movements, he obviously lets them know they’re doing a good job, and they love him, too! It’s a great reminder that we need to remind our own horses how much we love and appreciate them, and they’ll try their hardest for us.
Ashley Bonner, Maryland

My riding idol is my instructor, Emily. She may not be famous, but she knows how to ride! She is always supportive to everyone in anything they do. She makes riding something that is easy to understand. Another thing is how she has big dreams that she strives for. Right now Emily is still very young and she still dreams big. Even though it is not always easy for her, she stays happy and keeps her hopes up. Emily is working hard in college to get a business degree and horsemanship degree. She wants to own her own stable one day and I think she has the drive to do it. Knowing her, she will never give up and will become one of the best and most caring barn owner/riding instructor that I will ever know.
Jessie Harris, North Carolina

My riding idol would be anyone I learn from. Anyone I see doing something that could help my horse be as healthy and comfortable as possible or help me become a better rider. Going to shows and seeing the ways people set up their equipment or what they do to their horses after a rigorous cross-country run.
Julia Mace, Maine

I ride English Hunt Seat and I’d have to say my idol is my former riding instructor Kristine Stephenson. As a Junior, she trained and showed with the legendary George Morris, where she won numerous awards. I hadn’t taken any lessons for about a year after I purchased my first horse, Taxi, so we had developed some really bad habits. Tina always made the lessons fun. I developed great balance, and I started showing and even won a few awards. My greatest achievement was when I won the Adult Equitation trophy at a show. Four years ago I moved out of state and now have my own farm with three horses. I still call Tina for her advice, which she gives without hesitation.
Toni Gagliardi, Kentucky

Two current riders stick out in my mind: The first is Belgian show jumper Phillip Le Jeune. It really touched my heart to see him dismount at the 2010 World Equestrian Games and hug his horse and the horse’s groom and then go over and hug Vigo d’Arsouilles and that groom. Seeing a top rider who just won one of the biggest competitions in the world thank his equine partners and the teams of people who put in hard work really showed that he isn’t in it just for the money and fame. He truly is a humble person. The second person would be McLain Ward for taking the Sapphire disqualification at the 2010 Jumping World Cup Final in stride and being a good sport. That was a much-needed breath of fresh air in a sport that is, at times, filled with bad sportsmanship, drama queens and politics.
Tiffany Stephens, Ohio

My 4-H leader from when I was younger, Dennis Keefer, had polio when he was younger and could no longer ride, yet he drove his Hackney horses to many championships. He also taught me to ride Western pleasure and hunter under saddle, as well as coached me to my first showmanship championship—all while having not ridden in many years. Most importantly though, he taught me horses are not all about the ribbons but about the relationship between horse and rider (or handler) and the person they help you become. Also that the horse comes first! He is an amazing man and still a great friend and mentor to this day!
Sarah Quellmalz, Michigan

My idol is Greg Best; I always looked up to him for riding an incredible horse like Gem Twist.
Joann M. Robertson, New York

There are so many great people and horses to look to for inspiration! I have been watching Heather Blitz in dressage, and she and her horse Paragon are truly inspirational. Edward Gal is someone I admire, and Steffen Peters, too. I also think Mary King in eventing is awesome. And I saw McLain Ward and Sapphire in an amazing performance a few years ago. Mary Wanless for her training wisdom.
Cindy Bean, Florida

My riding idol is my 66-year-old mom. She isn’t a world-famous trainer or rider, but she is the best example of true horsemanship I know. As a teenager, she qualified for the Medal and Maclay Finals but wasn’t able to attend. After a long career in education, she came back to her love of horses and purchased and bred an off-the-track Thoroughbred. She raised, started and trained the filly—and took up eventing in her 60s! Not only is she the fittest “senior” I know, she is the most patient and caring horseperson. She believes in developing a true partnership with a horse. It might take longer to achieve results, but the result is a happy, healthy horse who trusts her rider.
Kitren Nickerson, Colorado

Margie Engle is not only an amazing and talented athlete; she is a role model for female riders. She is strong, competitive and never gives up. I saw her and Indigo win a local Grand Prix and fell in love with them. One day I want to finish my Grand Prix jump-off course with a blue ribbon and be like Margie.
Lena Lopatina, Ohio

I remember the first time I saw Ian Millar and Big Ben. Watching them make such big jumps look so effortless took my breath away. There was just something about that team that made me realize this was what I wanted to do.
Doreen Guthrie, Alberta

My rider idol would definitely have to be Lainey Ashker. I was present at Rolex when she had her awful fall, and I remember how time stood still. I read every post about her recovery, so seeing her back at Rolex and running successfully almost brings tears to my eyes. If that doesn’t show a love and passion for this sport, I don’t know what does.
Carson Loder, Ohio

My riding idol is eventer Caitlin Ziegler. She has accomplished so much at such a young age. She has great form and gives me hope that, even though I’m older, I can be successful also.
Heather Hartland, Pennsylvania

My riding idol is Beezie Madden because she pursued her riding career—and still is pursuing it. I hope to be half as good as she is when I get out of college and start pursuing my own career at the higher levels.
Alison A. Thomas, Arkansas

The day I asked my then-6-year-old daughter if she wanted to learn how to ride horses and she answered with an enthusiastic, “Yes!” I had no idea what it would lead to. She has never let anything get in her way of pursuing her dream of becoming an accomplished rider. She is as gracious a champion as she is when she’s not in the ribbons. When I was 40, she inspired me to fulfill my dream of learning to ride. Now she’s 21 and getting ready to begin her last year as an equine studies major at Virginia Intermont College. I am proud to be able to ride in the same ring with my riding idol—my daughter, Claire.
Paige Mawdsley, Virginia

My idols are everyone who dedicates their time and a good portion of their lives to riding. As riders, we know the highest highs and the lowest lows, yet we continue because we love our sport and the horses who make it worthwhile.
Kyllian Genzmer, Idaho

My riding idol is my trainer, Jessica Masten. After experiencing two near-career-ending accidents, I found myself at Jessica’s barn. She was so kind and patient, and she helped me get back into the saddle. Her support Jessica’s motivation and encouragement helped push me through pain and recovery to help me reach my goals.
Kimberly Smith, Texas

Read more answers to this question in the October 2011 issue of Practical Horseman magazine.

Photos by Jim Bortvedt.

Showmanship at halter, one of the most popular events at all levels of Western showing, tests a handler’s ability to fit and show a horse in halter competition. But no matter how skilled the exhibitor, he or she can’t do well in the class without a horse trained to perform it required maneuvers. If you’re an aspiring competitor wondering just how that’s done, you’ve come to the right place, as it’s what this article is all about.

Regardless of whether your care about showing, though, basic showmanship training offers benefits outside the show ring that every horse owner can appreciate. It improves a horse’s ground manners and increases his respect level for you. It also fine-tunes your ability to control your horse’s position and pace, a skill useful in real-life situations such as backing out of a trailer, turning in tight quarters, even moving a hoof off the hose in the wash rack. At its most developed, showmanship training gives you a level of body control from the ground that can be operated with fingertip finesse.

Who wouldn’t want that degree of handle on a horse? It’s like leading a dance partner instead of lugging a 1,000-pound animal at the end of the rope.

The Foundation
At its core, showmanship consists of six basic maneuvers that are combined in various orders and degrees of difficulty to form a pattern. These basics are leading at a walk, leading at a jog/trot, stopping, backing, setting up for inspection, and pivoting. They form the foundation of showmanship training.

In this article, we’ll demonstrate how to start building this foundation in your horse. Keep these key points in mind as you begin:

1. Maneuvers are taught with pressure on the lead chain and pressure from your body position. Immediately reward a correct response with a release of all pressure and a brief pause before you ask for another move or different maneuver.
2. All exaggerated body position and verbal cues shown in photos are for training purposes only. Such excessive cues are faults in a judged showmanship class. As your horse progresses in his training, you’ll gradually decrease and refine these cues until they are extremely subtle or non-existent.
3. At the beginner training level, progress comes in baby steps. A close approximation to the desired result is considered a correct response. Reward accordingly.
4. When your horse reliably responds with a beginner-level effort, request improvement by maintaining or increasing pressure as needed, until your horse responds with a result that’s better than his initial effort. Continue to use the baby-step training method to build toward a solid foundation.

Walking The Walk
Goal: Your horse should lead calmly and willingly, at a pace that matches yours, and with his head and neck in alignment with his body (straight on a straight line).

Starting point: Position your horse so his off-side (his right) is next to a rail, wall, or fence line (see upper-right photo on page 66). This ensures that your horse develops the habit of traveling in proper alignment. Tip: As your horse progresses, gradually wean him away from the rail so he learns to maintain proper alignment on his own.

Position yourself at a point between your horse’s throatlatch and the middle of his neck, facing forward. Tip: You exact position will depend on your size, your horse’s size, and the length of your arms.

Training steps: Keep your hands and arms firm and still as you step off into a brisk walk. Tip: Accentuate your body-language cues for forward motion by slightly inclining your shoulders forward and stepping first with you right foot. This creates a visual cue your horse perceives slightly before the physical cue of chain pressure.

Showmanship training teaches your horse to be as responsive and light on his feet as a dance partner. And that’s useful outside the show arena as well as in! Use our step-by-step instructions for getting started.

Trot Take-Off
Goal: your horse should step smartly into a jog/trot at precisely the same moment you start your run, without changing his basic body alignment.

Starting point: Remain on the rail and in the same position as described in the walk training section. Start forward at a walk.

Training steps: Keep your elbows firmly at your sides, to anchor your lead hand and arms. Tilt your upper body forward as you simultaneously take a huge step forward with your right leg.

Your horse is likely to respond with either of the reactions previously described, although at the faster pace; you can expect the reaction to be more dramatic. Remain calm and continue at a run with your elbows anchored and lead hand steady. The second you horse corrects his pace and position to match yours, he’ll earn his first reward—release of chain pressure. After a few successful strides together at the jog/trot, reward him with a brief, calm walk, then try again. If your horse is extra-reluctant to step into the jog/trot, add a verbal cue such as a “smooch” or “cluck” just before you execute your initial cues.

Whoa Means Whoa
Goal: Your horse should stop in a soft, balanced manner, with his head, neck, and body in proper alignment.

Starting point: Position your horse on the rail and start walking. Tip: When your horse reliably “whoas” at the walk, progress to stopping at a jog/trot.

Training steps: At the walk, say “whoa” in a soft voice and then immediately stop and stand still (saying whoa as a “pre-cue” before you stop gives your horse’s brain time to start processing the stop command). Your horse is likely to drift past you and then stop when the lead chain tightens against his chin. Tip: Don’t pull back on the lead chain when teaching the stop; let your horse discover that his incorrect response, not your hand, initiates the correction.

You’ll know your horse didn’t stop correctly if your position, in relation to his body, has changed—for example, when you stop, you’re standing by his shoulder, instead of at a midpoint between his throatlatch and mid-neck.

If your horse continues to respond lazily to your stop commands, try this correction: Say “whoa” and stop as described above. Then, instead of standing still, immediately start walking backward. At the same time, pull back and down (don’t jerk) on your lead chain and repeat the verbal cue “whoa” with every step you take. Your horse most likely will respond by pushing his head up and resisting moving backward with you. Keep your correction-cue pressure on until your horse lowers his head and takes at least one step backward with you.

When he does, immediately release the chain pressure, then walk forward a few steps and repeat your stop command. You might need to apply this correction a few times while your horse learns to coordinate his body to stop in time with yours. This correction can be used throughout the progression of your showmanship training to sharpen and fine-tune your horse’s “whoa” response. Tip: A few horses tend to stop too rapidly (before you do) when you ask for a stop. You’ll know you have one of these fellows if you find yourself positioned forward at the throatlatch when you stop. Eliminating your verbal pre-cue should fix this problem for you.

Have you ever dreamed of living on a Wyoming horse ranch where you can stand on the front porch and see forever? Does an authentic, working horse/cattle ranch experience, complete with chores and responsibilities, interest you?

How about starting young colts? What about riding? Lots of riding! Endless opportunities to ride over 66,000 acres, ranging from sagebrush flats, grassy slopes, to magnificent sculptured rims and ridges.

Would you like to help with cattle drives? Branding? Vaccinating?

Then you'll want to head to Horseworks Wyoming, owned by Nate and MaeCile Brown. Their ranch is located in Grass Creek, between Thermopolis and Cody. This area is on the Absaroka Front, a prong of the Rocky Mountains

Rustic Ranch
At Horseworks Wyoming, you can choose how long you'll stay, from one day to three weeks. This isn't a fancy dude ranch. No hot tub, maid service, or gourmet meals! It's a rustic, simple, sagebrush-y cattle ranch, modestly priced and affordable to the general public. Included in your stay are delicious meals, cabin accommodations, and a great selection of mounts.

There are no staged ranch events, just honest ranch work and activities. Some days are long and hot; others, relaxing and laid back. Selected weeks are oriented toward clinics, cattle drives, all-men's/all-women's groups, families, and youths.

The ranch also holds horse sales. It'd be almost impossible to buy the wrong horse. Why? Because you can ride the prospect at the ranch for a week or more until you're certain he's right for you. Also, you have the expertise of Nate and MaeCile, who love and know their horses. They want to sell you the best horse for your needs, riding ability, and personality.

As a guest, the schedule is flexible. At any time, you may take a break or a day off, and with good reason. We soon discovered that we were no match for Nate, who's 86 years old. He ran circles around us! He spearheaded jobs and led the rides. He also worked colts from 5:30 to 7 a.m. Coffee cups in hands, we'd observe the last half-hour of training. We never did catch the entire morning training session.

Peacefulness is guaranteed. There's a bone-weary peace that comes after a day of hard work performed outdoors and on the back of a good horse. Muscles ache, and there's no question about a good night's sleep!

Also, there's the visual peace you feel when you watch a fiery sunset, gaze into a campfire while listening to a softly strummed guitar, and gape at a black-velvet sky ablaze with diamonds.

Footing!
Brenda Lynn Pettijohn-Christenson, Indiana

Her legs. I drove our barn owner nearly crazy last summer by asking her every day to check the legs of the pony I was leasing, even if nothing felt wrong. Even though it may cost everyone at the barn his or her sanity, when it comes to my horse's health, I can never be too careful.
Margaret Murphy, South Carolina

Joint health and excellent farrier care. I have an OTTB who raced 64 times before I bought him off the track. We show in Western Pleasure, English Pleasure, showmanship and trail. Shoeing is so important and tricky with him because he has a long toe, typical of many Thoroughbreds. In terms of joint health, my goal is to be preventive so he can feel his best whether he's still competing or just pleasure riding. He's my horse of a lifetime, so I work hard to make sure he's in great health.
Monica Southwick, Massachusetts

The Golden Years
At age 5, my aspiring jumper Thoroughbred gelding fractured a carpal bone in his knee. After six months of stall rest he walked out sound, but I knew that his career and longevity would depend largely on his maintenance coupled with a conscientious work and show schedule. We had several years of successful showing (even at the 4-foot level), and he rarely took an off step. I attributed that to the effort I had put into his soundness. He always received oral joint supplements, regular injections of Adequan or Legend, cold hosing after any jumping and showing with plenty of time off between shows.

Now, at age 18, he just had X-rays, a knee injection and had fluid removed for the first time since his original injury. The vet was astounded that at his age he was sound at all after a knee fracture, much less still jumping and loving it. Now we jump and gallop on trail rides, and he does it with gusto--but we seldom show because that extra money is spent on his staying sound, which is the most important thing to me. Whatever I have to do to keep him happy and comfortable takes priority.
Pam Marion, North Carolina

I have a 19-year-old Quarter Horse gelding. I am concerned with his overall health due to his age. He's still in full work, including jumping, and enjoys being ridden. I make sure that he's eating without problems and digesting it without issues, too. I look after his joint health to keep him happy and moving freely. I make sure that he's happy, healthy, eating, and moving like he should. I feel I owe it to him to keep him as healthy and happy as possible.
Melissa Houts, Michigan

Best Foot Forward
Proper shoeing for a Thoroughbred with bad feet.
Rachel Grant, Massachusetts

Foot care is vital to me. I lost a horse because of complications from an abscess that led to a bone fracture that required stall rest, which then caused him to colic. My kingdom for the best farrier ever
Julie Stephenson, New Jersey

Mental Health
My horse's mental well-being is very important to me. He's been having soundness problems, so we've had to take him out of a group pasture situation and put him in a stall, with only about 20 to 30 minutes of walking per day. To keep him from going stir crazy and developing vices, he has a stall right near the entrance of the property so he can see the goings-on during the day, and he is able to interact with his neighbors over the top of the partition. Teaching him tricks like giving kisses and nodding "yes" and shaking head "no" has also helped keep him mentally stimulated while he heals.
Rachael Knopf, California

Proper turnout and exercise.
Liesha Cornetto, New Jersey

Trying not to feel guilty when I can't find time to ride. It's difficult to find a happy medium between family and horses.
Karen Maw, British Columbia

Letting a horse live like a horse. That is why I don't have one now--I'm in the military and am stationed in Hawaii. I refuse to have a horse if he can't live in a pasture, eat grass and roam. I had horses in Tennessee for 15 years; they were pasture-kept with access to a barn at all times. We never had a single case of colic. When and if I ever move to a place where a horse can live as he should, I'll get one!
Jennifer Ashmore Blazewick, Hawaii