Be Patient
As you teach your aged horse lateral flexion - or any new maneuver - be patient with him as he goes through the learning process. If he doesn't immediately respond to your cues, it's most likely because he simply doesn't understand what you're trying to teach him. Allow him to make mistakes. Go back to the point where he did respond, and show him again. Be patient, gentle, and kind.
Once your horse understands your cues, give him lots of praise, and end the session on a positive note. Then he'll remember the positive aspects of training, which leads to a positive mental attitude. A good attitude, in turn, leads to an increased capacity to learn.
Trainer/clinician J.F. Sheppard, 55, specializes in responsible training for trail horses, and safe horsemanship for trail riders. He's certified under top Paint Horse trainer William T. Lawrence. Afflicted with osteoarthritis, he continues to actively ride and train. The southern Oregon resident can be reached at flyingeagle@ccountry com For clinic information, visit www.horsecreekoutfitters.com.
