About Solange Rian Expertise I specialize in breaking and training difficult horses. I can provide advice on correcting behavior issues - cribbing, rearing, spinning; along with tack recommendations. I can also suggest feed programs, hoof care and explain dental care requirements.
Experience I have owned Horsehaven Stables since 2000 and will break 5 horses this year alone!! I believe in a humane, safe and intelligent method when breaking horses that is based on results and not time. I have gained a reputaion in the area for taking in dangerous horses that no one else wants and fixing them up. I keep them as personal riding horses for years and if I see improvement I will sell one eventually to the right owner and situtaion. I believe every horse deserves a chance to prove themselves. More often than not they prove it was the human's fault!!
Question I have had my horse for 2 years know and I rode him a year before that. He is 9 years old and a great horse. When he was only 4 years he was reserved champion trail horse at pinto Canadian nationals. But last year I took him to a show and he flipped over. We thought it was a "flook" for he was fine up to this year I took him to another show and he flipped over again. Now I'm scared to ride him because every one said he's dangerous. I know he's not. My trainer is currently riding him and when he flips his head she turns him in a circle. It works, but she is also having me when I ride have my rein all the way out and my legs completely off him because when I touch him with the leg he flips his head like he's threatening he's coming up.
I'm only 13 years old and Vinnie is my first horse and my best friend, but what do you think I should do?
Worried girl,
Amanda
Answer Hi Amanda!
I have to be completely honest for your sake and your horse's. You should not ride him anymore. You say you know he is not dangerous and that you love him. Unfortunately, love is not enough in this instance.
He will flip again or rear and you, as the rider, will not be able to stop him. I find your trainer to be irresponsible to have you riding this horse. Your horse has told you both in no uncertaion terms he does not want to do what you are asking him. And I can only imagine the size of the bit and spurs he is being "asked" in.
You can love him all you want but, he needs to be re-purposed (find another job) to something else that he can wrap his mind around and be safe at.
Talk to your parents about turning him into something else that he likes and having a professional guide you through the process. Then, if he proves himself to be rideable again, you can try...little steps at a time. Make him earn back your trust, slowly.
Otherwise, my only advice would be to sell him to someone knowledgeable that understands his past isses and can work with them. Don't be sad for him either because it would be the best and safest thing for him....and you.
You are so little to have such big worries. If you cannot re-make your horse into something safe, find one that is and love him too.
Good Luck, Be careful and remember to always wear an ASTM/SEI approved helmet!
