Foundation

The number one thing that I do before I start riding a horse, or even train one is doing groundwork. It doesn't matter if I trained the horse a week or six months ago, I still do groundwork. Groundwork is a major key in being able to gain a horses respect, without respect you always get the heels. Soon as I received Wendy back I started working on groundwork. After a few days of having groundwork I saddled her up, took her in the round pen, and then let her exercise with the saddle and bridle on. The reason for this is if the horse is going to buck, she is going to buck without me on her. Wendy didn't offer to buck a lick, or even try to do anything. I then called her to the center and practiced getting on and off of her. I rode in the round pen for a little bit, opened gates, and then I took her outside of the round pen where we practiced on going through and over obstacles. Wendy did amazing! Needless to say if you do your groundwork correctly, you will have a sold foundation that will strengthen the horses bond and trust in you.