Mild Winter Has Been Good for Horses and Riders

Last winter at Boots and Saddle Riding Club in Salisbury Township, we were up to our eyeballs in snow - figuratively, of course!  This winter has been a much, much different story. Typically, winter at the barn brings more work and less riding. There is ice to break out of each and every water bucket and water tank several times a day, longer walks up and down the hill due to the extra layers being worn by both human and horse, and "snow balls" to be picked out of the horse's hooves.

This winter has been a much welcomed change from the norm around the barn. Of course, there is still the added chore of breaking ice from the buckets and tanks, as horses can become dehydrated easily in the winter. But it has been really nice seeing boarders riding their horses outside and enjoying the Parkway. Our faithful and responsible employees are also enjoying this mild winter. There have not been many days of frozen fingers and toes!

Winter is also a time for horses and riders who compete to take a deep breath and relax for a bit. The training does not stop but the pace tends to be different. It is a time to reflect on the results from the last competition season and to make plans for the upcoming competition season. It is a time to work on correcting problems and for learning new skills.

I wrote about Emily and her mount, Theo, in my last post and I would love to give you an update on their progress. As I mentioned, Emily and Theo compete in an equestrian discipline called Eventing. At the lower levels, which is where Em and Theo currently compete, the term is Horse Trials. At the end of the season last fall, Emily and Theo moved up to the next level, called Elementary. Most of their work this winter has been in dressage. Emily had developed good muscle memory and rarely needs a correction on her position and has really gained endurance. Theo, or "Big Red" as he is affectionately known, has progressed nicely and is looking like a different horse! He now has a beautifully muscled neck and hindquarters. They have learned the benefits of correct lateral work and consistency in applying aids.  I am getting excited for the start of the competition season in a few months. It has been fun and rewarding to see their hard work make a difference in their rides.

Of course, we do not know what the reminder of the winter months will bring, but we at Boots and Saddle Riding Club will not be disappointed if it remains mild. If you are ever in the Parkway keep your eyes open for our horses and riders.