Your horse's work schedule can be disrupted for many reasons. A lameness or health problem can lead to a long hiatus before he's ready to head back to the arena or hit the trail. Weather can keep you out of the saddle for long periods of time. Your own work and family schedule might prevent you from riding for days in a row.
Whatever the case, when your horse returns to his job, he'll likely have pent-up energy that might make you uncomfortable or even fearful. His fresh attitude might worry you that he'll buck you off, bolt, rear, or do a prancy dance. Your concern is valid, and that's why you should approach your horse's return to work with a plan of action. Here, I'll outline the steps I suggest amateur riders use to get back in the saddle after their horse has been laid off.
Do a Feed Check
While your horse is out of work, consider taking him off the high-energy feed and opt for a simpler diet of more grass hay and less alfalfa. This can help tame his excess energy by not providing the fuel in the first place. Keep in mind that you should never abruptly change a horse's diet, or he could experience colic. Additionally, if your horse is on hiatus for a health or soundness issue, speak with your veterinarian about advised dietary changes.
Provide Turn-Out Time
This story is from the Summer 2023 edition of Horse and Rider.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the Summer 2023 edition of Horse and Rider.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
A Horseback High
Riding vacations can be found around the world, and here are five bucket list rides in the United States
JOIN THE CLUB!
Riding clubs of all forms can be found across the country. What should you look for when choosing—or starting—a club of your own? We asked three club leaders to share their insights
Help Is (Sometimes) Only a Phone Call Away!
Do you depend on over-the-phone advice from your veterinarian? Here's what you need to know about telehealth to help you understand what you can, and can't, expect
REPLACING FEAR WITH CURIOSITY
Horses have both flight and investigative behaviors but not at the same time. Learn how to help your horse switch to curiosity when his flight instincts kick in, and how to put the brakes on when he's already gone
Ranch Riding Mares
Evaluate and place these performance mares. Then see how your choices compare to our expert judge's.
An Empty Stall
The loss of a horse leads to a new landscape of managing emotions and moving forward
Strengthen Your Mental Game
Prepare your mind for peak performances with your horse by implementing these tips from reining trainer Shane Brown
Burning Off the Fresh
Whether your horse has gone unridden due to a health problem, the weather, or your schedule, a thoughtful process can keep everyone safe during his return to work
Return to Exercise Slowly
If you’ve been turned out to pasture for a while, as the result of injury or just a busy life, return to exercise in a safe and steady way
Ground Tying for Ranch Trail
There are many reasons to teach your horse how to safely ground tie
