Once you have selected a horse which displays proper body
conformation, provided that it is in good health and is
receiving a balance and nutritious diet, you should begin a
conditioning program.
One of the most difficult tasks with respect to conditioning a
horse is deciding which method is best for you. What works
for one individual may or may not work for another. Your
horse should be exercised daily. Begin with a workout of five
to ten minutes and gradually increase this length of time.
You should exercise the horse until it is just breaking a
sweat. A well-exercised horse is much less likely to become
bored and exhibit bad habits.
Whether you longe, drive or jump your horse through a course,
it will soon show physical improvement. Once you reach this
stage, your horse is ready for the "grooming-to-win" process,
regardless of which class you choose to enter.
Prior to the horse entering a trailer bound for the show, it
should be groomed and all tack should be cleaned and in good
shape. Bathing, brushing, combing, rubbing, and other work
should be complete. Upon arrival at the show grounds, touch-
ups and other details can be handled.
Be prepared. Arrive at the show ring prior to the class being
called, with a clean and well trained horse, making certain
that you are properly dressed for the specific class. Take
all instructions from the ring steward and be sure that as you
enter the ring to always keep the horse between yourself and
the judge. When walking or trotting your horse for the judge,
always travel in a straight line. Remember, when in the show
ring, always be alert and courteous to everyone.
When the judge is inspecting your horse, always try and
present the animal to its best advantage. If you have
conditioned your horse and have it groomed properly, you
should do quite well.
Proper care, a responsible owner, good training, and a
generous dose of love can provide a near trouble-free life for
today's horses.
||
Stallions||
||
Mares||
||
Fillies||
||
Colts||
||
For Sale||
||
NewArrivals||
||
About The Miniature Horse||
||
Equine Rescue||
||
Equine Links
||
||
My Catholic Faith||
||
Email Little Valley Miniatures||
||
Home...Site Map||
Official AMHA Web Site Sponsor
