Back on: Bareback

Today was an exciting day, I got back on Carats for the first time in nearly four months!

I have been slowly working him a little harder over the last few weeks, trying to build him back up without too much pressure or stress. He has been walking out in hand, some days with side reins or long reining etc. As part of his rehab I needed to get back on board and we decided to have a short hack up the track together.

Hacking Out (The Natural Way)

Louisa was with me just in case, but of course it is Mr C- he is just the best! I honestly trust this horse totally so had no qualms about using basic tack. Kitted out in his bareback pad and a head collar we were ready to go. We don't have a mounting block at the yard so I just lined him up next to a flatbed trailer and hopped on- I think he was a little surprised at first that I was on him rather than leading him but he was so happy to be back in work.

He was fantastic, forward but totally and utterly as safe and dependable as ever. How many horses could have four months off with box rest and be completely sane to get straight back on with no gadgets or gizmos. He strode out with purpose and listened to everything I asked him to do. My goodness, when you dispose of all our little human gadgets like saddles, bridles and whips it does make you so much more aware you how you ride! It's fantastic practise for me using just my seat and legs to ride with and Carats loved every minute, especially the grazing stops en route!

We also continue to play with the clicker training which he really is immense at, he has learnt bow and targeting now. He is also getting some turnout each day which is just magic for him. The (correct) turnout is so imperative to his healing as the movement helps with the blood flow. At the moment we need to wait for some fencing to be repaired and then hopefully by next week we can up it to half a day out in the wood chip and then the week or so after that he can be out all day yippee!

Finally we have been using an Equilibrium massage pad on his back which really helps free and soften his whole back, its a great piece of kit and he adores wearing it.

The downside of getting back on him is that I miss him even more, I am hoping against hope that we can fix my ginger pony. Come on big red... x