Knowing When to Part Ways

Horse-canada.com - Full Article

Ruckus Rider | May 12, 2015

I always hesitate when it comes to discussing the dynamics of relationships, especially when it’s targeted at horse and rider combos. It’s a touchy subject fraught with controversy and, let’s face it, horse people are known to be an opinionated bunch to say the least. But, here I am about to enter no-mans-land because this week’s lessons and discussions have been about nothing other than suitability. Getting it, keeping it, and understanding that you never had it in the first place. Recognizing that all relationships, whether horse or human are fluid, evolving, and dynamic is important when a rider is evaluating any partnership. My job is to stay positive and supportive while assuring my riders that at some point everyone questions the suitability of their equine partnership.

The relationship that we develop with our horses is just that, a “relationship”. It will have ups and downs, bright and shiny moments, and those we’d just as soon lock away in the dark recesses of our minds. Horses have the ability to make or break a day, and just like any other type of relationship they have power to help define and shape their partners not only as riders but as people.

It’s all too easy to forget that like every other type of relationship our horses need to be a good fit for us...

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http://www.horse-canada.com/ruckus-rider/knowing-when-to-part-ways/