Anne Chunko

Lead Lines – Handy Retraining Tips

Saddle up! The first under saddle lesson

You have an intelligent companion in your Standardbred, yet riding for the first time can be a daunting thought. You and your Standardbred will be less stressed by taking it slowly, one step at a time.

You may have no idea what experience your Standardbred has under saddle. The safest route is to assume your horse is completely new to carrying a rider.

The first time you saddle your horse up, ask a friend who has experience with horse to come with you. Pick a time when the barn is quiet and take your horse out of his stall and crosstie him. Groom him as you usually do, but pay special attention to remove any dirt from his girth and back.

Check the fit of the saddle on the horse by placing the saddle on his back without the saddle pad. Run your hands underneath the saddle. Look for any spots where the saddle seems to pinch. It should be in even contact with the horse. Also, see to it that the saddle is not resting on the horse’s spine. (This is just a basic explanation of saddle fitting. You should consult another equine resource for complete saddle fitting directions.)

If the saddle fits well, take it off, put the saddle pad on and then the saddle. Tighten the girth slowly and gently until it is tight. If your horse seems to be holding his breath, walk him around for a few minutes, then tight the girth (or cinch). Check to see if the girth is tight (you should only be able to slide to flat fingers underneath the girth.)

Bridle your horse. Be sure that you’re using a gentle bit, such as a full-cheek snaffle. Put the halter on over the bridle; it may need to be loosened to accommodate the bridle. Attach the lead line to the halter.

• Take the horse to an enclosed area, such as an arena or paddock with good footing.
• Have your helper lead the horse by the halter over to a stool or mounting block.
• Step up and get your horse used to you being taller than usual–talk to him, scratch his neck.
• Lean your weight across the saddle. Your Standardbred may move away from the weight, so have your friend encourage him to stand still. Practice this for several minutes until he is comfortable with your weight.
• Bump his side to simulate what your foot will do when you put your foot in the stirrup. Be warned, some horses don’t like the bump of your foot, while others couldn’t care less.
• Put your foot in the stirrup and swing your other leg over.
• Just sit on his back for a few minutes, getting him used to you being on his back.
• Have your friend walk the horse around as you gradually take up the slack in the reins.

This first “lesson,” you should probably just focus on establishing the ideas of stop and go. As you walk around the arena, practice stopping; let your helper know you’re going to ask for a halt, then say “whoa” out loud to the horse while pulling back gently but insistently on the reins. Tell your helper when you plan to walk and then tell the horse “walk” and bump him firmly with your legs. Practice this several times.

If you’re comfortable and feel secure, cut yourself loose and have your helper remove the halter.

Enjoy the ride!
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This advice should not replace that of a good riding instructor or other equestrian professional, and should be used as part of a complete riding program.