AboutSarah Lothmann Expertise Professional trainer for 10+ years. I happily offer you my expertise, techniques, and advice covering: Hunters, Jumpers, Equitation, Showing, Training, Sales, Behavior, Stabling, Grooming, Tack, Barn Management, Rider Psychology, & Effective Communication.
Experience
Experience: I have been riding for over 23 years. As a kid I participated in 4H and Pony Club. I then worked as a groom and catch rode to pay my entry fees in the A Circuit. As a teenager I competed nationally in the Junior Hunters, USETs, and Medal classes. I've learned from and worked with some of the nations' best trainers. During college I began training professionally. I have prepared my students for both local and national shows. Recently I have organized two local equestrian groups for expanding general knowledge of horsemanship and for ensure the welfare of horses. I continue my dedication in this industry by offering visual design services for equine businesses including, graphic design, web development, and photography.
Education/Credentials AAS Degree, Veterinary Assistant, Professional Trainer
Question Hello, I have a 14.2 piebald cob. Ive had him for about 3 years and not really had many problems, but recently after riding some of my friends horses I have started to notice that when I ride him he sticks his head out and tenses up his neck. I have tried to ride him with different rein lengths thinking that maybe I was pulling on his mouth to much but this does not seem to help.
He is also very downhill, is there anything I can do to help this as I am finding it very hard?
Thank you
Susie.
Answer His build will naturally make him want to carry his head out in an effort to balance his forward motion. The tenseness you described could be indicative of some pain developing which often can in such conformation. One thing a rider can do to improve this issue is to work diligently on proper balance both with rider and horse. Try the light but still connected hand, and opening your hip angle. Two words: Upward Transitions. You want to be disciplined in controlled balanced upward transitions. Spend a few months on this and his strength in his hind quarters will increase allowing him to shift his balance back more properly.
