Sweet Auburn Coaching

26/07/2023

The horse is a social animal and social contact is essential for its welfare.

If a horse is stabled, it helps a lot to see other horses but, more importantly, touch and groom them as well.

The global consciousness of the importance of the social needs of horses is increasing.

From mounted police units to racing, very slowly people are beginning to realise that when horses can touch and groom each other, even across a stable wall, there are positive welfare and health benefits for the horse, and benefits for trainers because such horses are more mentally secure and more tractable.

If it simply is not possible to have another horse as a companion, then as a last resort even another species such as a sheep may possibly help, however, there are very strong limitations in cross-species housing because of species-specific aspects of the animal's evolved ethogram.

✨An excerpt from our latest textbook, 'Modern Horse Training: Equitation Science Principles & Practice, Volume 1'. You can purchase a copy here: https://esi-education.com/product/modern-horse-training-equitation-science-principles-practice-volume-1/

25/06/2023

Last week I submitted my feedback to the Consultation Paper for the appointment of industry directors to the Board of Horse Sport Ireland. Click on the link to read a summary of my submission and to find out how you can also make your own submission!

Last week I submitted feedback to the Horse Sport Ireland consultation regarding my thoughts on the new suggested process of appointing board members. I welcome the decision for the new board directors to be appointed through a new “open call process”, which will involve inviting individuals fro...

10/11/2022

Remember to release after every aid. Releasing aids as soon as the horse gives the desired response is extremely important.

First, the release tells the horse that he did what you wanted. This removal of pressure is what scientists call 'negative reinforcement', because pressure has been removed. It makes the horse more likely to respond next time you give an aid.

Second, the release gives the horse a chance to develop self-carriage (when he maintains tempo, speed and line). This has the added benefit of giving riders the chance to return to their own neutral position (eg, 'quiet' legs and hands).

Third, the release makes it easier for the horse to tell the difference between one aid and another. This improves rider communication and reduces horse confusion.



Note: This particular Training Tuesday tip is about releasing after every aid, which is called 'negative reinforcement'. From the earliest rider Certificate, Pony Club Australia encourages 'positive reinforcement', which involves adding something that a horse finds pleasurable, like a scratch or a food reward.

10/11/2022

Did you know that the footfalls for rein back are not the same as walking backwards? They are more like trotting backwards, because the rein back is also a two-beat movement in diagonal pairs!

We introduce rein back very early in the Rider Certificates as part of step back during groundwork. This makes it very easy for the rider to watch the legs and make sure they are moving clearly in diagonal pairs. Riders can then feel this movement when mounted, to allow clear and deliberate steps.

10/11/2022

All behaviour is communication. Next time you catch yourself thinking emotional or judgmental thoughts about your horse like 'that's so annoying' or 'he's being so naughty', try thinking 'isn't that interesting' instead. You might be surprised at how differently you see your horse, what's being communicated and how you can help. Now, isn't that interesting!

23/08/2022

How's your horse's outlook?

Does he look outwards and forwards when you ride, or does he look downwards?

The physical and mental welfare of horses suffers when they are ridden with their necks too round (hyperflexed), with their nasal plane behind a vertical line to the ground ('behind the vertical' or 'behind the bit').

Research shows that horses ridden in hyperflexion have restricted breathing and vision. A horse at liberty would never carry himself in this way for more than a very brief period.

When you next ride, make sure that your horse is not looking downwards. If he is, allow or encourage him to look outwards and forwards!

Learn more about your horse’s neck at https://www.horsesinsideout.com/post/how-your-horse-s-outline-affects-his-way-of-going

08/07/2022

Another fantastic opportunity to work with one of our member charities 👇

HorseWorld Trust is looking for someone with up-to-date knowledge of equine care + experience in dealing with equine welfare concerns to advise on equine welfare matters & in rescue situations 🐴

Closes 25/7

Visit 🔗 horseworld.org.uk/about-us/employment

22/06/2022

The Team Leader at Walkland Farm will work closely with other Team Leaders and the Farm Management Team as well as independently; organising the day-to-day activities of the yard which cares for of over 80 horses and ponies in sanctuary care.