Canon #6: Watch for trouble.
Why it's important: If you can catch a problem early, and slow down or stop before your horse is in serious trouble, he's more likely to recover quickly. But if he's already seriously compromised before you end the ride, he can suffer further damage, which can be fatal.
Recommended routine: Be alert for early warning signs of problems, such as signs of fatigue, dehydration, and tying up. (See "Trouble Signs," on page 84.) Note that fatigue at this level of conditioning is usually self-limiting; that is, your horse will be fine if you allow him to rest. However, it might take an hour for him to rest enough to get back home. Dismount, remove the saddle, and let him relax. Allow him to graze on safe grass. Nontoxic, green grass is the best thing for a tired, dehydrated horse, as it contains moisture and electrolytes (key minerals lost in sweat).
Encourage your horse to drink throughout your ride, especially if he seems tired, overheated, or dehydrated. Water is vital to all of his bodily functions, and he needs water to rid himself of excess body heat. Give him free access to clean water. Encourage him to drink at stream crossings.
Canon #7: Give your horse time off.
Why it's important: Your horse will function optimally both mentally and physically if you allow him a day off now and then. If you overdo, you'll tear down his body tissues rather than building them up. He can also burn out mentally and start to resist. Time off helps him to return to work eager and happy.
Recommended routine: How much time off you give your horse depends on his stage of conditioning and how much work he did on the previous ride. After a long ride, he'll need time to repair damaged muscles.
Use this formula: Grade your most recent ride on a scale of 1 to 5; 1 is equivalent to a 10-mile, pack-your-lunch trail ride, and 5 is equivalent to a five-day endurance ride. This grade is the number of days off you should give your horse after a ride. If he's stalled, turn him onto a pasture or paddock where he can move freely.
Note that if you're on a relaxed, multi-day trail ride or camping trip, your conditioned horse should be able to carry you every day. Most recreational trail rides involve mostly walking, with numerous stops. If your horse gets 12 to 15 hours of rest out of 24, he should be ready to go the following day
