The Training & Care of Horses

The training and the care pay off in special rewards.

The horse experience is like no other. Exercising, feeding and grooming these animals, are activities that put people in touch with the right things. Spending time with a well-trained horse, that responds to cues as if one were pushing a button, is its’ own kind of reward. And sharing horse stories with friends, or anyone with an attentive ear, is a favorite pastime of the enthusiast, as well as the long-time horsemen.

On any Saturday, there’s going to be a group of buddies that saddle up and head to the arena to watch calf roping. These are exciting competitions that are fun for spectators, as well as the participants. Teaching a horse to rope, to know when to back from the calf, and when to hold, takes hours of work along with large helpings of patience and expertise. This might explain why the local paper isn’t filled with ads that list blue-ribbon roping horses for sale. Roping horses are special animals that are loved and prized by the cowboys that train and ride them. Sitting in the saddle at ringside, with an ice cold drink in hand, makes one realize how fortunate it is to have events like this to occupy the day.

The early evening hours are a great time for a couple of horses and a ride with that special girl or guy. A balmy night, with the hills outlined in the distance, and maybe a warm breeze to add to the romance. Anyone who’s ever been on a trail ride under the light of a full moon will keep that memory for a lifetime. Be sure to bring along a bottle of wine and some imported cheese for a touch of class.

Equestrian centers and outdoor arenas are great venues for all types of events. Weekend mornings might find groups of kids in a session where horsemen pass along their knowledge of training and caring for a horse. Kids learn how to do everything from saddling a horse, to the right cues for lead changes. Many an accomplished rider has come from these types of classes, and gone on to compete in top level events such as dressage, barrel racing and other saddle competitions. It’s not uncommon to see trophy case with plaques and awards that were won by those who are now a decade or two older, but no less involved in the horse culture.

Holidays are a great time to trailer the horses downtown and enter in the local parade. These are the times when everyone gets to break out the vintage cowboy duds, and wave the old Stetson at some familiar faces along the parade route. Of course there’s an entry fee, but donating time and a few dollars for a good cause, and having the fun of doing it on horseback, is the kind of community affair that just can’t be passed up.

Possibly the combination of gentleness, speed and power, explains our fond attraction to horses. There’s no other animal like it in our world. Horses are companions, pets, transportation, excitement, mysterious, and a pleasure to be around. Those of us that are fortunate enough to be involved with these fascinating animals are enjoying the special rewards that are only found in the horse experience.

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