EH Issue No.143 – Electronic Version

Product Description

March/April 2025

Choice not Chaos: First Grade With Ray Hunt By Barney Nelson, Ph.D.
This reprinted article from the 80s details Ray Hunt’s colt starting clinic, focusing on the crucial “Day Two” where colts and riders independently apply the previous day’s lessons under the watchful eye of Hunt. The core philosophy emphasizes getting the horse “ready” for each step through patience, understanding, and immediate release of pressure as a reward for the slightest try. By teaching fundamental movements like neck bending and hindquarter control, Hunt aims to establish a willing, soft, and respectful partnership between horse and rider, often exceeding the progress of traditional breaking methods in a short timeframe.

Fellow Seekers – Reflections on Master Horseman Bettina Drummond By Alice Trindle
This article is a heartfelt tribute to Bettina Drummond, a renowned horsewoman and mentor, following her passing. The author reflects on their transformative journey together, highlighting the profound impact Bettina had on her understanding of horsemanship, despite their differing backgrounds in classical and ranch riding. Ultimately, the piece celebrates Bettina’s dedication to preserving the art form of horsemanship and her ability to connect deeply with fellow “seekers” in the equine world.

After the Fair with Amber Marshall
Amber Marshall, known for her role as Amy Fleming on the long running television series Heartland, recently attended the Midwest Horse Fair, where she was met with enthusiastic fans who shared how the show inspired their own horse journeys. She was particularly impressed by the attendees’ deep knowledge and passion for horses, finding the event to have a special, family-like atmosphere. Marshall hopes to inspire further connection and understanding between humans and horses, as reflected in her own liberty demonstration and her character Amy Fleming’s compassionate approach to horsemanship.

Riding for Wellness? Take Your Dressage and Head for the Hills! By Lee McLean
The author advocates for a balanced approach to horsemanship, blending classical dressage ideals with natural, outdoor training to enhance both physical and mental wellness for horses. By riding on varied terrain and focusing on natural impulsion, riders can foster a more engaged and self-balancing horse, encouraging deeper breathing and a happier partnership. This method emphasizes listening to the horse and allowing it to learn through natural experiences, moving beyond strict arena drills for a more holistic development.

Nahshon Cook And the Advantages of Attending a Clinic By Katrina Hays Photos By Steven McBurnett
Nahshon Cook’s clinic emphasizes the deep connection between a human’s emotional state and a horse’s physical well-being, demonstrating how a rider’s presence and internal state can lead to profound healing in horses. He teaches that by focusing on internal comfort and safety, humans can help horses release tension and improve their physical demeanor, transforming challenging equine issues through a compassionate and holistic approach. The article encourages attending clinics, whether as a participant or auditor, to gain new perspectives and deepen the understanding of the horse-human relationship.

My Next Dog A selection from Dogmanship A Horseman’s Ponderings By Tom Moates
The author, a lifelong enthusiast of working with cattle, details his quest for a Border Collie after the passing of his previous dog, drawn by the breed’s intelligence and herding abilities. He reflects on the surprising historical absence of horses and herding dogs on dairy farms, contrasting it with their value on ranches, as explained by Baxter Black. The author seeks a Border Collie that can both work stock effectively and serve as a calm companion for his varied daily life.

How do I get my horse to stand still to mount? By Ben Longwell Photos By Natalie Longwell
Instead of asking “What do I do when my horse won’t stand still for mounting?”, the article encourages riders to understand the underlying reasons for the horse’s behavior, such as fear, habit, or soreness. The key to success lies in making the correct behavior (standing still) easy and the incorrect behavior (moving) difficult, consistently rewarding the slightest try, and ensuring the horse understands the desired “parking” spot. This approach emphasizes patient groundwork and clear communication, treating mounting as a continuation of basic horsemanship rather than an isolated problem.

Why Won’t he do What I Ask? By Katrin Silva
The author, a former horse trainer in the competitive Western show world, recounts learning that fighting with horses only exacerbates resistance and builds fear, leading to unreliable partnerships. She now approaches “disobedience” as feedback, prompting her to assess her own communication, the horse’s understanding, emotional state, physical capability, and any potential pain. This shift in philosophy emphasizes building trust and understanding as the foundational elements for a willing and responsive equine partner.

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