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Check frequently asked questions about Dressage
Resolved Question: Are different saddles (stock, western, dressage, fender) the same size?
I currently have a stock saddle, 17" but I am buying a swinging fender on eBay. Will the 17" in a swinging fender be the same size as my stock and fit my butt? :P (and I'm buying it online, if it's at fault then that's my problem, so don't worry about warning me and whatever)
6 Feb 2012, 12:47 am | click here to view more
Open Question: I really want to start a blog about the horse world...?
I have no idea what to include in it, so I guess I should ask the people that would potentially view it? What sort of things would you want to be in a blog about horses? I personally train in dressage to GP level, but I would adore to learn about other disciplines. Any ideas peoples? Thanks :D Chris
6 Feb 2012, 11:15 am | click here to view more
Open Question: How to get to the top?
One of my dreams is to be a high level dressage rider, I don't have any of my possess horses I go to a tiny riding school, and I ride twice a week. What steps do I have to take to receive there? .. Im 16. Thank you xxx
6 Feb 2012, 10:16 am | click here to view more
Open Question: I can canter western but fail at english?
So I just started english westerns today was my second lesson. I realize that every thing will take getting use to etc but here's my problem. I rode in a jumping saddle today and my last lesson I rode in a dressage saddle. My instructor decided I was ready for the canter today and I try not to brag but I was doing awesome today with my trot so I look her reasoning. When I ride western I don't have the slightest issue asking for the canter and being calm and in control. In the english saddle though as soon as I slid my out side leg back to ask for the canter I felt my self tense up and as soon as she picked it up I felt my self loosing balance. She felt me loosing balance and went back to a walk she's one of those baby sitting type horses when it comes to determining if your ready or not. I regained my balance and asked again and she lunged into the canter sorta similar to a horse bolting and for some reason I felt like I couldn't control her. I brought her to a halt and was so frazzled that I was having such a difficult time cantering when I do it every the time in a western saddle. I wish I had a video to show you guys so you could look it as I'm sure it would be more help full for giving advice. I know my instructor will will give me tips and advice and help me receive through this but I was wondering if you guys had any ideas on things I can do this week while riding western that will help me until next week when I have my lesson again. I just can't understand why I can w/t/c/g in a western and w/t/c bareback but I receive in an english saddle and loose control. Also would short stir ups make cantering that much harder because In my opinion they were short but I think it's because I'm so use to the long barrel stir ups. Thanks so much Oh I rode my lesson horse bareback at the end of my last lesson for her chilly out period and got about 4 stride in to the trot and slid right off the side. I didn't even bother to try to stay on it was a loosing battle. Her bottle is very slick like she has show sheen on but she doesn't. I actually laughed at that because I was like what the heck put me on a green broke horse who bucks and I can stay on bareback then you put me on an ottb lesson horse and I slide right off. Ugg I just can't win with this ottb.
5 Feb 2012, 7:19 pm | click here to view more
Open Question: Would Boots Benefit Him?
I lease a 16 year old OTTB. I do basic, basic dressage (collection, circles, leg yields, forehand turns, intro to extension), and do practice with ground poles. I also do basic western riding, but just riding on trails or in the arena. Do you think he needs boots? If so, what nice of boots would be best? Thanks!
5 Feb 2012, 6:22 pm | click here to view more
Open Question: How/Where would i register my horse for showing?
i live in kentucky, and recently bought a TWH/quarter horse mix (or so the sellers said??) im pretty sure the TWH is true, she has a very nice gait, and im guessing she had some showing or at least some trainging of some nice done because my mom was able to have her do some dressage exercises with her. we know she was definatly never a lesson horse though. this horse was more of a rescue horse, but shes doing much better. the girl i bought her from just wanted to receive rid of her, and the people she bought them from ahd been beating her and shooting her with a bb gun. but we've been working with her, and im getting lessons with a trainer whose also been working with the horse. she has an almost complete turn around, with a few bugs to work out now. I'm aged out of 4-h by one year, but id still like to start showing her within a year or two. however im unsure of if i need to have her registered and how i would do that? she didnt arrive with any papers at every and i know nothing about where she's from. she's supposed to be 14 years old. (or do you even need to register for showing?)
5 Feb 2012, 1:00 am | click here to view more
Open Question: Endurance details (I mean endurance riding not running etc)?
In january i was on holiday in a tiny farm town and i went riding. The horse i rode was an endurance horse and the tour guide said i rode the distance and pace of an average endurance ride. I have my possess horse and compete in basic showing and dressage but now every i want to do is compete in endurance riding. The day after my fabulous ride, i met an endurance champ in the town. She told me that i have everything a rider needs to compete.I'm looking into endurance riding now and was just wondering how old (minimum and maximum) you have to be to compete, what saddles to use, and most details about the sport.
5 Feb 2012, 10:50 am | click here to view more
Open Question: Which jumping saddle for all eventing stages...?
Would the Marcel Toulouse Annice or Dennise model saddle be better for eventing up to possibly training level (every stages, not just jumping)? I plan on getting a dressage saddle sometime this year hopefully but which of these two saddles would you say are going to be best overall? Thanks!
5 Feb 2012, 10:12 am | click here to view more
Open Question: What do you like to look for in a Dressage horse?
Just wondering what people like to look for in a Dressage horse. Not confirmation wise, but personality wise. Thanks!
4 Feb 2012, 9:49 pm | click here to view more
Open Question: Rising Star Farms Biagina Lazaroni Eugene OR?
Very very rude lady! I possess a TB/WM cross and am newer to Dressage but adore it! She has no tact and the first thing she did was tell me how horrid another trainer was. She is righteous and in every honesty...I was not impressed by her riding! She was ridgid and mad! I'm hoping to find a nice riding stable in the Eugene area!!! If anyone has any info please let me know because if they're anyting like hers then I'm more than glad to board WAY out of town lol!!
4 Feb 2012, 8:08 am | click here to view more
Voting Question: Breeches for Eventing?
I usually show in a light tan pair but I need a new pair now and I've really been leaning towards a nice white pair. I just wanted to know if you every think its fine to wear a white pair in stadium and dressage (ive got a black pair for xc) normally I'd think it's fine but people can be werid about colors in shows sooo i just wanted a few opinions. oh and people are always telling me that white breeches make your legs look fatter. I'm not fat but not a stick either soo just wondering what you every think.
31 Jan 2012, 7:46 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: POLL! For Dressage Riders?
Do you wear stock ties or hunter chokers when competing? Ive seen both so I thought I'd ask:)
31 Jan 2012, 6:22 pm | click here to view more
Voting Question: Dressage show coat question?
So it's time for me to receive a new show coat, and I'm an eventer, so I've decided I would like a black show coat with four buttons for the dressage portion I won't be in any hunter shows, so this will be fine for me. I have a few questions though, can I also wear this coat for stadium jumping? And should I receive plain buttons, or silver? Which is more formal? Thank you!
31 Jan 2012, 4:21 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Is this a good price for an Ainsley saddle?
There's an Ainsley Toklat dressage saddle at my tack store. It's 17.5 seat and I believe it's medium withers. It's very lightly used, in great condition. It's $800. Is this a good price?
31 Jan 2012, 11:37 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: I need a English show check list?
I go to many shows and I always forget stuff I have looked on line and can't seem to fing a good show what to bring check list please help I do d rally so alsow if u can do a check list for XC dressage and stadium and just like for a fair please help ow I only ride English and if it maters to you I'm in D-1in pony club but could easaly do or test D-2 thanks
30 Jan 2012, 7:32 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: show coat questions/poll......?
I'm looking for a new show coat :) I've had my coat for a long time, but its getting old and a bit to tiny, so i figured its time for an update. So i was wondering.... 1. black or navy? 2. do you like any of the more unique colors? ex: grey, tweed, green, etc 3. what style/color is best for multiple english disciplines ( I switch from dressage/eventing/hunters/jumpers depending on the horse i'm riding, so i need something that is multi-use) 4. do you think the amount of buttons matters, like, 3 or 4? (I saw a question about this, honestly I never though about it, what do you guys think?) 5. favorite or most comfortable brands? 6. any coats you could recommend below $150?
30 Jan 2012, 6:45 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: How long should a pony club dressage musical freestyle be?
what is the maximum time for it? its for VA region dressage rally.
30 Jan 2012, 5:36 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Poll! For English Riders Only!?
Sorry western riders, you guys are chilly too! This poll is on show coats. 1) what discipline are you? 2)what color is your show coat? 3) how many buttons? Three or four? 4) did you pick the color of your show coat because of the color of your horse, at just to be formal? 5) I'm an eventer, and it's time for me to receive a new show coat, for the dressage portion. I didn't know what disicpline I was going to do when I got my current coat, so my trainer just said to receive a three buttoned dark blue coat. Ive heard that black and four buttons is correct for dressage? I'm not into huge shows yet, so I'm not looking to receive a shad belly, so what should I receive? Thank you! Sorry guys, should have been more specific. The trainer I was talking about was from years ago. Im at a new barn now.
30 Jan 2012, 4:39 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Lake Geneva Equestrian Center Reviews!?
HI! I am looking for a new riding stable and i want to do everything from helping around the barn, to lessons, to showing. I do dressage, can jump and want to learn cross country. So obviously i ride english. And i want to show a lot more than i do now. so these are my questions... How are the instructers? How are the lesson horses if you dont have your possess? How often are there shows? And anything else you no would help! Thanx! :)
30 Jan 2012, 2:16 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Massage or stretch your horse?
What are some massage or stretching exersises I can do to my 12 year old pony please help she is usilly worked every other day we jump we play games xC some dressage ( not framing) pleas tell me some moves I can do
30 Jan 2012, 2:07 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: whats your horse/pony at...?
pony games? jumping? dressage? xc? to tackup? to groom? my pony is this. ponygames: impatient as f.u.c.k LOL he bucks, goes to rear and bolt off hes so competitive lol showjumping: clear round every the time. he is amazing at jumping dressage: i think if he was given the chance hed be quite good but i dont like dressage with him (even though flatwork has to be done -_-) xc? meh..he has his moments lol tackup: hes scared of his bridle and will put up a battle lol groom: he doesnt like people touching his feet or catching him for that matter lol whats yours like?
30 Jan 2012, 1:35 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Whatcha think of this horse ?
http://newbrunswick.kijiji.ca/c-pets-livestock-for-sale-Jetsetter-Arabian-Thoroughbred-W0QQAdIdZ350510237 Ive been looking for a somewhat project horse . Not green green and not dead broke either . I came across this one and thought hes be nice for dressage . So whats your opinion ?
30 Jan 2012, 1:00 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Applause Dressage? (Freestyle music)?
Has anyone used their services or attended a clinic? This is a former(?) rider who created a company that edits free style music for riders. If not this company, have you ever used a production company or person to compose, edit and/or mix music selections. If so, do they also help with designing your pattern (as well as the music)?
3 Feb 2012, 8:50 pm | click here to view more
Open Question: What to know in the hunter/ jumper/ dressage rings?
So my horse is trained hunter. W/T/C, flying guide changes and jumping 2'6" to 2'9" courses. I want to try her jumper because she has natural talent. How do I switch her? My pal at the barn said to start her in dressage. I have been riding dressage for only a year. I am going to hand her off to a trainer for this, but I'd like a list of what she has to be trained. I want her to be like a level 4 dressage horse or higher. I know she need leg yielding, but what else? *update 16hh clyde/hackney mare *no longer leasing* 16.2hh tb *no longer leasing* 16hh OTTB *sold to my trainer :)* I currently am leasing a 16hh appendix mare and I possess a 15.2h quarter horse mare :)
3 Feb 2012, 4:03 pm | click here to view more
Open Question: Anybody watch Judge Judy today about Sharron Jeffco? (pictures inside).?
For any of you who do not know. This lady Deborah Dobbs took her horse to this "world renown" trainer.(Must not be to big I have never heard of her). While at a training session for Deborah's horse Misty. Sharron put a bit in the horses mouth and the horse didn't like it. So she got mad and tied the horses head down and started beating it with a long dressage whip. Deborah took the horse to the vet and had to have her tongue sewn up. Picture: http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/429039_2643960705428_1447932318_32251624_1051238792_n.jpg http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/407911_2643906384070_1447932318_32251617_9837502_n.jpg The horse: http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/385526_2451322249587_1447932318_32177385_1238849210_n.jpg Judge Judy the one who was taking the case, didn't do CRAP. But at least now with having her reputation kinda smudge on national TV maybe she'll loose so business. I think this lady could have gotten more. But hey what are you gonna do about on old crabby TV judge ;). Your thoughts? Sharron Jeffco's words we're "There was no blood before I put the bit in but after I took the bit out there was.". Hmmm well she says that they weren't "fresh" wounds. Said by 2 other vets who only seen the PICTURES that I posted over. They didn't look the horse every the have are pictures. So the vet that said they we're fresh cuts opinion stands. But shoot I mean even if the weren't fresh wounds. You had to have been doing something HARSH to open them back up huh? Well the lady(Sharron) paid Deborah 900 and something dollars to(Deborah never received it. It was with her lawyers) "make it go away" she even said that while in the court office. So the judge said that was payment enough and left it at that. But she obviously could have done more. The Lady Sharron was so full of herself. So in a sense Deborah won, but was kinda humiliated in the process. I still think there should be more action taken. Oooooooooo Joanne will you link me? Gallop- Yes exactly. I think also if she would have done more then it would have been maybe a more solid case. I seriously did find Jeffco VERY annoying. Here Dobbs is crying and Jeffco's every laughs and heheh's. I was like "Full of yourself much?". It is really weird. I mean it makes sense if Deborah would have done it her self THEN took her to the trainer. As the trainer said "There wasn't blood before I put the bit in, but there was after!". That makes sense. If Deborah would have done this herself and then blamed it on the trainer. But then the trainer wouldn't have paid her off if she didn't feel she was guilty. The whole thing is weird. There's loose ends every where. We'll never know the whole TRUE story. The more I think about it the more I doubt both sides of having any truth. Kinda unhappy.
3 Feb 2012, 3:26 pm | click here to view more
Voting Question: What horse things could I do for my birthday?
Basically it is my 16th in August so I want to do something special, I adore horses, I have been riding for around 2 years and caring for horses for around 4 years. I can walk trot & canter, jump up to 1m, walk bareback, I do dressage, leg yield every that nice of thing so basically Im not a complete novice. My budget is £200 at a complete maximum!!! I am in kent so preferably local to me. Ive seen days out hacking and things like but £100 for a hack?! Just wondering if anyone had any ideas on activities I could do? Please no rude or nasty comments or I'll delete them. Thank you in advance :) xx Thats why I'm asking...
29 Jan 2012, 7:10 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: going to start dressage would like to get some information?
im going to start dressage and would like some of the things you have to do that you generally only do in dressage and what they are (flying changes, half pass, piaffe, passage and every the others please :)
29 Jan 2012, 3:40 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Things from my first english lesson?
Today I had my first english. I use to ride western, mostly barrels so my instructor put me in a dressage saddle since it's the closest feel to help me transition over. When riding western I was taught I should just barely have to tip my toes for the stir ups but today I had to bend my knee quit a bit more then I normally do in western. I know of the armpit and ankle tick for measuring the stir ups but I was wondering if it's normal for dressage riders to have slightly shorter stirups. I was riding a Tb mare who use to race and every thing about her was quick. Even when she was collected and round she was going as quick as a canter and the instructor was still telling me to push her forward. I'm not sure if it's normal when riding english to go for such a long quick stride. I could just be confused because a lot of the horses I barrel raced were also pleasure horses. I plan on talking to my instructor about these things but that''s a week from now and I'm kinda impatient lol. Another thing was the amount of contact on the bit. In western I was taught to use as little as possible and to have a slack rein but in my english lesson I was told to keep contact and I felt like I was pulling to much on her mouth. My instructor said I was doing great I just felt so odd to keep such constant contact on the horses mouth even when she was following instructions. Here are some pics of my lesson today some from the first few minutes when I was horrible and some from later when I was slightly better. http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/403637_10150568089919661_812284660_8654959_1350995159_n.jpg http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/430521_10150568090164661_812284660_8654961_738740736_n.jpg http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/425565_10150568090279661_812284660_8654963_1550460128_n.jpg http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/429422_10150568090434661_812284660_8654964_756881016_n.jpg http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/416933_10150568091959661_812284660_8654982_758122293_n.jpg http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/404714_10150568090599661_812284660_8654965_924119754_n.jpg http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/418540_10150568091289661_812284660_8654972_1686222227_n.jpg http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/399914_10150568091689661_812284660_8654978_479933956_n.jpg She says this is the best pic she got today http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/429634_10150568091804661_812284660_8654981_1867809389_n.jpg http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/416933_10150568091959661_812284660_8654982_758122293_n.jpg Also any tips you a have are appreciated a few of the pics my hands were odd cause I keep wanting to neck rein lol and I a few I was forward because either I was posting our it was from when we practiced 2 point and we were doing it sorta like posting where I was up for a second and sit again then back up again etc.
29 Jan 2012, 3:40 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Number of buttons on a show jacket?
I've seen show jackets with four buttons and ones with three buttons. Which number is used for which disciplines? Thank you! Also, for the dressage portion of eventing, which is more formal, a black show jacket or a dark blue one?
29 Jan 2012, 3:13 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Having to go back to the basics?
I've been riding for about 8 months now and have, in my opinion, been making needy progress. I started off taking basics with a horrible trainer who was my age (21). They were NOT responsible so I switched to a dressage instructor at a show barn. I was with her the longest... about 4 months. Like I said, I was making needy progress and the horse they had me on was way to experience and sensitive for me. I think she got annoyed at me... she was high level and I am a newbie who is just taking lessons once a week. Now the barn owner is doing my lessons. She is much more patient with me and is much more fun, however she is making me do the basics. It's a good thing a guess... it just sucks and makes my confidence and pride go down. It feels like I've wasted 8 months, only to have to start back again because either I'm just THAT bad or am not picking things up right. I know a lot about horse breeds, care, etc... I just can't ride well. I can tack both Western and English, can walk, post the trot, and sit the trot. That's it. We are now working at the walk on stopping and turning in Western and using neck reining. The barn owner teaches differently. We do 10 minutes of grooming and tacking, 20-30 minutes in the arena, and 30 minutes in the desert hills. I think this will help me a lot... but it just seems like I'm going backwards. I'm riding a nice horse who is compliant with just enough spice to keep me on my toes. And I need to work on my seat and balance big time. I want to take lessons twice a week instead of once... but I'm going to be broke from doing this. Not sure if my progress or my bank account is more important! I really wanted to start saving for my possess horse but that's going to be put on the back burner... During your riding career, have you ever had to go back to the basics? What are your thoughts on this? Lizzie, I'm not saying I'm going to give up or find another interest. I adore riding... I'm just making slow progress!
29 Jan 2012, 1:20 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Need help with buying my first horse?
I have been riding horses (jumping, some dressage) for about eight years, and I am now aloud to buy a horse, but I have a couple of questions first... Do you think I should buy an older dead broke horse or a younger one I can train a bit and bond with? Would it be better to keep it at a family friends' barn where I do every the work, then trailer it over for lessons once a week, or should I keep it at my lesson barn? What are the best websites (besides Dreamhorse) for finding the "perfect horse for me?" If I am around 5'3" and 115 pounds, what is the smallest horse/pony I could receive? Thanks for every your help in advance! (:
29 Jan 2012, 1:15 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Starting dressage lessons so I have some questions?
It's a higher class place and the lady show and owns Friesians.My grandma and I are both taking lessons. 1.Riding gear? Paddock Boots,Half Chaps,Full Seat Breeches,and helmet right? 2.What should I expect to be doing in the first lessons?(I have been riding roughly 6 years) Thanks:) Also I'm a hybrid rider haha I do Barrels/Poles WEstern Pleasure,Horsemanship,and Competative Trail Halter Showmanship Hunters Now I add Dressage as I'm looking toimprove my seat and become just that much better
29 Jan 2012, 11:10 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: how to introduce my horse to dressage?
any ideas ? he is already very supple , and is on the bit in every three gaits coming from the hocks
29 Jan 2012, 10:27 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: What should I do about my mother?
So my mom and dad hate horses..... They went to the grand canyon and hated horses so much that they rode donkeys. I got in because of an aunt, but she lives in another country so she cant help me with this. So i recently bought a horse (With my parents permission of course) and today was the first time in like 4 years my mom came to look my lesson. (i havent got the new horse yet since the owner wants one more week with him) So today she came and I wasnt jumping, I was in our tiny little dressage arena ( They ahve mirrors and i was working on my form) but the big arena next to us is a very big hunters arena. One girl from my barn was riding this new horse, Fin, when he started bucking, and reared her off she fell on the fence and he started galloping around the arena, until he escaped to the barn. The thing was that I rode that horse the day before and told my mom how wonderful and calm he was. Now not only does my mom threaten to return my horse, she wants me to quit riding. I told her to give me a couple of days before she makes her decision. What would you suggest doing? I would die if I had to cease riding. To make matters worse my mom doesnt understand people who like riding horses! oh ahha I am 15, and a sophomore in high school :)
28 Jan 2012, 7:17 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: should I change stables again or not?
I have been riding for 5 years going on 6 and in that time i have ridden at 3 different stables. The last two summers in a row I have arrive to find I was unhappy and moved on but recently Ive been getting that feeling again. Ive been at my current stable since July and was very glad at first. I ride a horse there that I adore but the issue is coming to be that many other people ride that horse and make it very difficult for me to compete. I moved to the barn with the hopes of being able to show level one dressage and was promised such but since July every ive done is practice some dressage here and there and jump. As much as I adore my instructor it is becoming tough to not show knowing that its really what i want to be doing, The barn i ride at now is 30 minutes away and ive recently found a show stable only 10 minutes from where I live. The prices are the same and I feel like it might be perfect for me being that they hold a dressage series on the premises have instruction in dressage and eventing and have tons of school horses. I was wondering what you guys thought about making the big move and if you think im just being a rolling rock when it comes to stable choices. Have you ever moved before? Do you think I should wait it out at my current stable?
28 Jan 2012, 6:16 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Best advice when switching disciplines?
So today (it's currently 1am here lol) I start my first english lessons. I use to ride western but I want to learn dressage and jumping now. I told my instructor I would like a refresher course to start with one because I was attacked by a horse and my bodies not quit ready to go he hawing around so to say and two because I think I would benefit from a refreshers course. Any ways I was wondering what tips you guys suggest for those who are switching. I know different disciplines switch their seats and such a little bit I know I'm I'm going to have quit a change between barrels and jumping ( when I receive to that point lol) I know my instructor is going to tutor me things I thought Iwould just look what tips you guys had. Maybe think of it as what would do you wish every your students knew before coming for lessons. Thanks
28 Jan 2012, 10:05 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Rollkur (20 characters)?
I bet people are getting mad just opening this thread! :) I'm going for the most thumbs down on a single post and I suspect that you will contribute because: A) - "OMG, not another dead end ranting about Rollkur" B) - "Rollkur is inhumane and punishable by death" C) - you disagree about cattle Rollkur is an advance training technique. It's not part of what is considered the "competition frame", but it does promote suppleness which is an very big part of dressage. This is not a technique that I've ever used and I've never had the opportunity to train horses with the top riders in the world, but I don't believe this qualifies as cruelty (thumb down me). Looking at snap shots of a horses head carriage excludes so much information as to what is happening with the horse at that very moment. Video is much better and in my opinion, these horses look very supple, flexable and balanced. Someone early posted how these horses don't look balanced. Oh wow... you really don't know/understand balance and collection. (thumbs down me again) Below is a link that many may have seen of Anky Van Grunsven explaining Rollkur. She is arguable the best dressage trainer in the last 50 or more years, and definitely better than anyone on Y!A (thumb down me again) I highly doubt she is cruel to her horses that are worth millions of dollars. These horses live better than I do :) (this one deserves a thumbs up :) So before you frantically strike your keyboard or pick up the phone to contact PETA on me, let's discuss calf roping, steer wrestling and heading/healing. ... I boarded at a very nice roping farm for about 8 months, but I couldn't receive over how brutal they seemed to be towards the cows. (some more thumbs down). That seems like a better arguement. The judges pick these horses because they look them as ideal. Just like AQHA halter horses... they wouldn't be so bulky if the judges didn't deam them as ideal, so we breed them that way like the video below and at least keep in mind that this lady is a muti world champion with mulitple Olympic gold medals. She probably deserves alittle respect from the Yahoo horse trainers of the world (final thumbs down...thank you for your vote!) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svOBsSdjUvU Add: Oh.. my question was mustard or ketchup on a hot dog? I can never decide Some day I will learn how to post correctly on Yahoo Answers and I will rule the world and receive a thumbs down from every of the common folk @ Police "She deserves NO respct from anyone in the horse world she deserves to be Shunned and A bit shoved in her mouth and Her chin Pulled to her throat and ridden around" Wow! Police brutality!! From what I've seen, her horses give their heads pretty easily. I was no where close the level she is, but even my horses would easily go behind the vertical with a soft tug on the inside rein. I'm not for or against Anky, but she is a winner in the eyes of the best judges, so she can't be a complete idiot. Some (not every) of you people are so mad... do you need a hug? :)
2 Feb 2012, 9:34 am | click here to view more
Voting Question: Dressage clinic/show?
I have a little dressage clinic in a few weeks. What it is is you ride your test, then receive a 20 minute lesson with the clinician, then you receive to ride your test again. I rode in one like this like 4 or 5 years ago, and I wore my show stuff, but I can't really remember what others were wearing. So should I wear my show stuff (coat and every), or blue polo, black below armor, white pants, and white saddle pad?
2 Feb 2012, 8:48 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Motivation and fear problems in jumping?
Hi guys! I have a 12yr old Warmblood X who is very talented. I've had him for two years, and have trained him up the levels in dressage. We used to jump heaps- up to 4ft- and he is VERY good at it. However, somewhere along the way I've lost my confidence. I jumped him for the first time in about 6 months (a little 2'6 jump) and afterwards I was shaking from the fear of it every. He IS a big powerful horse, with a huge scopey jump, and the tendency to rush during jumping. It can be very scary at times. Many people who have ridden him have refused to jump on him. Anyway, I'm joining back up with my local riding club, where I will be jumping. (not big- 3ft at the very highest) Sign on is in a few weeks, and I still haven't gotten back into jumping. I haven't even got my jumping saddle re-fitted! My jumps are every packed away, and my breastplate is slowly rotting away on its hook. I DO have an instructor, but due to back problems she can't lift poles- thus making it difficult for her to tutor me to jump every over again. So- I need some help motivating me to take that jump and start jumping my horse again. He loves it- I USED to adore it......and I want to adore it again. Any ideas?
2 Feb 2012, 7:49 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: When show coats are waived...?
..in dressage because of the heat, do you keep your stock tie on, or take it off? i was looking at this picture, and it seems a bit weird to me to keep it on... http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/250885_2075698178000_1411324956_32415512_4455799_n.jpg also, if i am going to buy a show coat for dressage and also wear it for stadium jumping, should i buy navy blue, or black? thanks! also, which is better, wearing your show coat for stadium, or just wearing a nice polo?
2 Feb 2012, 6:50 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: views on dressage...?
dressage looks like a lot of fun but i can't help wondering if the horse minds. i mean it's not what they were... how can i put it... designed to do. (sorry bad wording but i can't think of a better one). i asked my riding instructor about it, she said that at first it's a lot of work for the horse and takes them a while to learn, but she didn't say if they minded doing it. i've always thought that animals should be kept as close to their natural environment as possible, for their mental well-being. i've only been riding for five months so i'm still "green" with horses. so year, i know that i'm could be COMPLETELY wrong, but i couldn't help wondering...
2 Feb 2012, 3:37 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: What in your opinion is true collection?
I have realised people have no idea how a horse's body and skeletal frame works. There are so many untrue collections in the show rings that are winning ribbons. It puts so much strain on the needy horse. Its fashionable and is further encouraged by ignorant judges! People are sooo occupied by getting a horse's head down because that is every that they have learned to do even by so called "trainers" The horses i look prancing around in an arena are so unbalanced and agitated its not even silly. I have seen more collection in a beginner dressage class than in the top level rings where there movements and "rounding" is so overdone the horse looks like it will fall on its face any moment. Do people even know where the horse's point of gravity is? Show me a picture of correct carriage and one of needy carriage and sick give you 10 points. @hardcore.event.rider: "so much anger" grrrrr...
2 Feb 2012, 1:19 am | click here to view more
Voting Question: Does surgery (endoscope) work on stifle joints?
My 13 year old mare has arthritis in both stifle joints, the left we think as a result of an injury as a youngster and the right due to bearing more weight and pressure on this side. After a long period of box relax due to acute laminitis last autumn the arthritis has worsened. My vet medicated both joints 4 weeks ago and they have improved significantly but she is still stiff on the left one. He is now recommending surgery to flush out the joint but cannot promise it will work. every the people I have mentioned this to have advised me against surgery and told me it will make her worse. I haven't tried her on any joint supplements or tried any alternative therapies as yet as I was hoping to receive the go ahead from my vet today first. Prior to Nita being off work we did most riding club activities and unaffiliated jumping and dressage, she seems glad to be back in light work and her stiffness wears off quickly when ridden. I could live without jumping but really need advise on making the right decision about surgery.
2 Feb 2012, 10:07 am | click here to view more
Voting Question: What can I do ? Any other options?
I am so close to giving up and stopping riding. I have been working with my horse for over a year now, I still cannot receive him into a correct frame. He refuses to engage his hindquarters below saddle, and downright hangs on me. We have very inconsistent and non- productive rides. He hangs so much that even when I sit deep and steer him up and into the bridle my lower leg gets a mind of its possess no matter how still I try to keep it and how much I cling (not with my knee, with my calf) I am at my wits end. I have done everything I can possibly do to receive him working correctly from long and low, to getting off his back, to starting over, to draw reins to lunging in side reins, to getting pissed off, to using dressage whips. I do not have access to a trainer. I just need him working in a frame correctly and to cease being so heavy on the forehand! What can I do? 1. he is in a french link- his mouth isnt getting close a 3 ring (dutch gag) 2. then you can fork the money over for a trainer-im doing my best. 3. I only used draw reins 3 or 4 times - YES, I know what I am doing around them but don't like that they force him into something. 4. I don't whip him, never said I did. In fact being an ex-racer, he is terrifiied of them- only there for light taps to remind him he does have a butt to work too. So for every you who are ASSUMING every this S h i T , do not assume. I happen to respect my horse and but happens to want so quality work out of him.
1 Feb 2012, 7:02 pm | click here to view more
Voting Question: What saddle do you have?
I ride in a Pessoa a/o exchange and and an Anatares for jumping and a Passier for dressage... what do you guys ride in?
1 Feb 2012, 6:30 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Can you use a dressage bridle for jumping?
Just curious I know it says Dressage bridle but can you also use it for jumping?
1 Feb 2012, 5:20 pm | click here to view more
Voting Question: Backyard breeding BO?
( BO means barn owner, not body odour. I would hate to look body odour breeding.) The owner of the barn which I board at has 2 horses. She doesn't ride very much; she usually leaves it up to the trainer to exercise them for her. They aren't terribly well cared for, either. They're not unhealthy, but they always look unkempt and ingnored. She has bred horses in the past, and some have been sold. One of her remaining horses is 3 or 4 years old, I think. The BO raised her from a foal, and apparently now she plans on breeding her. I really don't know why; she doesn't compete or anything. She even asked if it is okay to put her in a dressage show while she is pregnant. Does it sound like there's something wrong with that picture? It does to me, nice of. I can't do anything about it, no matter what, but I'd like to know if this is considered backyard breeding. Is it right to breed a new horse when you already have 2 you don't pay as much attention to as most people do?
1 Feb 2012, 4:57 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Do dressage shows have a purse?
I know in hunter/jumper they're more out there about it. If there's a Grand Prix they will shouting "100k dollar grand prix tonight!!! blah blah blah" ...but I guess in dressage theyre maybe more reserved about it? Do riders competing at higher levels receive paid? Starting at what level do riders receive paid? What's the range of the purse? I'm just curious about this. Not saying I aspire to make a living off show money.
1 Feb 2012, 4:52 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Is this correct? Dressage levels?
I've done hunt seat my whole riding career and dabbled in dressage here and there. However I have recently decided to make the switch to dressage. I am trying to learn the levels. There's 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th then Prix St George and finally Grand Prix. Is this order correct?
1 Feb 2012, 4:03 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: I need to put my tb out on loan?
I need my 10 yr old tb out on loan (personal reasons) but none of the adverts i have placed seem to be attracting attention, can someone help me write out an advert. My tbs qualities are; Bay 16.3hh 10yr old He can be ridden by every ages Does showjumping, could affiliate, not phased by jumps Does cross country Currently concentrating on dressage Good stable manners Good to shoe, load, clip, bath, catch. If any more info is needed just tell me. He also needs to stay either on the same yard or in the same area (Hartlepool) Like i said he must stay in hartlepool so i can keep an eye on him now and look him now and again, I'm not avertising on yahoo i'm just asking for help writing an advert. Also he would need to go to someone who would compete him so a riding school would be no good.
1 Feb 2012, 12:18 am | click here to view more