PUT YOUR SADDLE HORSE TO WORK

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Since those early lessons, Gypsy has learned to haul other implements, too: a riding disc, an A-harrow, and a stoneboat. (Next on the agenda are a small plow and a wagon.) It seems that the more she's used, the better she gets! But whenever I put something new behind her, I'm careful to work her for only a short while . . . and always to end the lesson on a good note.

Take, for example, the first time my mare pulled a stoneboat to help gather rocks from a field. She started out fine, but before long she became feisty ... plunging, trotting, and getting that "wild look" in her eyes.

After a good hearty battle, I finally got both horse and sled to our destination ... whereupon Gypsy was praised (between clenched teeth) and given the rest of the day off. I think she and I were equally exhausted!

The next day-when I put her to the task again she performed perfectly the entire time. Whenever the wild look appeared, I just halted until it subsided . . . and then continued as before.

CONFIDENCE TO PERFORM

Always keep in mind that a horse usually revolts because it doesn't have the confidence to do something it hasn't attempted before. However, if you can relate to the beast in such a manner that it understands and accomplishes a simple task-with much-deserved praise-it will soon become a willing, gentle giant. And, again, don't push your animal ... a good two hours of work is fine for the newly harnessed horse.

Gypsy-whom we now usually refer to as "Ol'Gyps-Down-on-the-Farm" -was by no means a natural-born workhorse. She spent the first three years of her adult life in and out of the show ring . . . as an English pleasure horse and hunter. I believe her early career did much to teach her discipline under stress and contributed to her fine work as a draft animal.

It's been six years since my lady's show days, but she exhibits as much enthusiasm in the field as she did in the ring. I think the transition from riding horse to workhorse was a rewarding and welcomed change for her. In fact, both Gypsy and I couldn't be happier!

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