Some young horses will allow a rider to mount with no complaints, while others take months to accomplish this seemingly simple step. It is important for horse owners and trainers to understand that mounting problems with green horses are only resolved through patience and consistency.
There are several reasons why riders might encounter mounting problems in the young horse. They include:
- Fear on the part of the horse
- Lack of training
- Insufficient ground work
- Ill-fitting equipment
- Rider error
Each of these reasons can contribute to problems when mounting, and green horses need a rider who is willing to go back to square one to solve the root of the issue. In many cases, what seems to be a behavioral problem is simply a reaction to the unknown.
Mounting Problems Due to Fear
A scared young horse will respond to any new or unfamiliar situation with the only solution he knows: Run away. Riders often find that when they try to mount green horses, the animal walls off (or bucks, rears, crow-hops or side-steps). At face value, this seems to be a defiant act.
However, this type of mounting problem is usually due to simple fear. The young horse does not understand why the rider us putting his weight in the saddle and seeks to relieve the pressure.
A great way to resolve the issue of fear is to stop trying to mount the young horse. Instead, the rider should work with him on the ground until he views his rider as a security blanket. Once the horse seems comfortable, the rider can begin putting weight on the stirrups, such as by leaning on the irons or leathers instead of stepping into them.
Lack of Training and Insufficient Ground Work
These mounting problems come from the same vein, but are important to recognize. If a rider has trouble mounting green horses, it might simply mean that the horse isn't ready. An insufficiently trained horse will react out of fear, frustration and anger.
Has the horse spent lots of time in the round pen under saddle? Does he understand what the bridle and bit signify? Has he been driven from the ground to understand aids and rein pressure? All of these things are essential before one mounts a young horse.
Ill-Fitting Equipment
Other mounting problems with the young horse can be traced back to uncomfortable equipment. If a rider doesn't take the time to ensure each piece of equipment is appropriate for the horse, the pressure caused by mounting can invoke a negative reaction.
For example, if the saddle is too tight around the withers, the horse will feel pinched as soon as the rider puts weight in the stirrup. This might lead to bucking, sidling or walking away because the horse wants to relieve the pain. Before considering other causes, make sure that all equipment is secure and fits correctly.
Rider Error
Finally, some mounting problems are caused by rider error. This is more common in inexperienced riders, but it can happen to professionals as well. Riders often get so comfortable working with green horses and horses in general that they forget to check for the most basic of mistakes.
For instance, some riders will accidentally hit the horse in the side with the toe of the boot while mounting green horses. This startles the horse and provides mixed signals. Other mistakes might involve:
- Slipping the saddle into an uncomfortable position
- Pulling the mane in a painful way
- Kicking the horse's rump while swinging on
Avoid these rider errors while mounting green horses and make sure to watch the horse's reaction during every step of the process. Sometimes, a young horse will communicate his discomfort in obvious ways.
Safety Tips
When mounting green horses, safety should be the top priority, not only for the horse, but for rider security as well. Accidents happen all the time and one mistake can have disastrous consequences.
- Use a Mounting Block.A fence will work as well, so long as it is sturdy. Using a block or fence reduces the pressure on the young horse's back while mounting.
- Grab Mane. Instead of holding on to the pommel or horn of the saddle, grab a handful of mane when mounting green horses. There are few nerve endings in the horse's crest, and this keeps the saddle from slipping unnecessarily.
- Watch Foot Placement. Mount facing the back of the horse with the toe pointed forward, and be careful not to jab the horse in the side or rump with the boot.
- Drop Stirrups. Stirrups are the enemy when mounting green horses. If the horse were to bolt or buck, the stirrups could prove a dangerous liability. Until the rider is sure the horse is calm, he or she should shake loose the stirrups.
 |
