14th
March
2009
Post by Dara Turner
Today I went to a natural horsemanship seminar. I found it informative. I’m always open to learn from others, especially if they are trying to teach me a better way of training my horse. The better way is what has become the buzz phrase . . . natural horsemanship, horse whispering, etc . . . For me, this is training my horse without harsh training aids or techniques.
Today’s lessons were on the importance of ground training your horse & getting them to move forward, laterally & back; and doing these going both ways. If you can’t get your horse to do any of these moves from the ground . . . how do you expect your horse to do it when you are in the saddle. Good ground work is the essential basic that a lot of people leave out of their training because they are in a hurry to get results. You are not only training your horse good basic moves, but you are also establishing mutual respect. Without respect, you are going no where.
There are several different clinicians to choose from. Each has their own style & way of teaching. I would encourage you to go to a few of these seminars when one comes to your area. You may decide you like one clinician’s style better than another and that’s OK. If everyone liked the same things, life would be pretty boring. What I would like for you to do is listen with an open mind, learn something new and see if it works you & your horse.
posted in Beginners, Riding, Trainers, Western |
7th
August
2008
Post by Dara Turner

Attitude Is Everything . . Choose A Good One
This plaque was hanging at the entrance to the holding pen for a horse show. Every exhibitor walked or rode past it every time they entered for their next class. Most acknowledged the importance of the message.
To me, this means I should have a winning attitude. Knowing I have done my best to prepare both me and my horse, I come out a winner even if I don’t place in class. I treat my horse with the respect that he deserves. I take responsiblity for the mistakes that are made. I don’t blame my horse for every missed cue. I try to ride with a gentle hand, a quiet leg and a soft seat. I’ve found that this gets better results even if my horse is having a bad day. I try to be polite, courteous and pleasant to all around me. Good manners should not be lost in the horse world. I arrive a little early. I offer my help if needed. Finally, I have fun!
Attitude Is Everything . . Choose A Good One
What does this mean to you? I encourage you to leave a comment.
posted in Beginners, Dressage, English, Horse Shows, Jumping, Lessons, Riding, Western |
16th
July
2008
Post by Dara Turner
The Palomino Youth World Show is now in full swing. If you live in the Tulsa Oklahoma area, THIS IS A MUST SEE!!!! No where else can you see so many beautiful golden horses in one place. No where else can you see so many different variations of the golden horse. Whether you like trail, English, Western or Halter, there is a class that will catch your attention. Come out to the Tulsa fairgrounds and see the kids guide these horses around the arena and put them through their paces. Go to www.palominohba.com for a tentative show schedule.
There’s no excuse, it’s free admission!
posted in English, Horse Shows, Riding, Trailer, Uncategorized, Western |