Occasionally I am superficially involved with local 4-H horse events, primarily through my cousin who has been strongly involved since she was old enough to join I believe. Today was just such an occasion, and I wanted to bring up an observation that I had which led to me questioning if this was the norm?
We created a mock up show class – halter classes and under saddle classes – in order for FFA members to take part in judging and comparing their notes with a certified judge. It wasn’t the actual classes which captured my attention, but actually the tack and fitting of the horses.
I have noticed as well in interactions previously with 4-H members of other clubs as well, that I have to address with them halters which are not properly fit to the horse’s head, saddles placed in the wrong place on the horse’s back accompanied with other issues related to saddle fit and turnout, bridle and bit fit, and even grooming issues. I have worked with a lot of beginner as well as long-time horse people with the same issues, but it is the consistency that I’ve seen in 4-H’ers which piqued my curiosity today.
In my thoughts I also thought about a number of my students who have commented that no one has actually told them where or why something is done in a certain manner with the horse. Kind of along the lines of “because I told you” or “just do it like I said” rather than giving acknowledgment to their question of “why?” and responding with an appropriate answer. Have any of you felt the same way? That things were poorly or left completely unexplained as to “why?”
I won’t lie, I myself experienced much of the same growing up in learning to ride horses. That confusion led to frustration as I was also given what I like to call dead end answers when I did pluck the courage to ask someone who I thought might know. These are answers which shut you down rather than give you a position to ask more questions or look further into your inquiry.
This is exactly what part of my Essential Horsemanship Clinics address – starting with the fundamentals of horsemanship. Going back to the basics in order to rebuild the foundation which may be cracked or missing pieces, move beyond what was previously thought possible while building self-confidence, awareness and communication with your horse.
And in recent light of my observations… I think it would be appropriate to extend a discount (or free attendance) to all 4-H members…