Time Off from Riding to Heal

I have decided to cut back almost completely on riding Claire. Here is what I found out from a vet on Horseadvice.com

Welcome Jennifer, Without seeing the radiographs and examining the horse I cannot comment on what your veterinarian is talking about. In general bone spurs, called osteophytes, will remodel a bit in time but the gist of what the second veterinarian said is accurate: they don't "smooth out" and then this indicates things are alright. Osteophytes occur do to stress in the joint so are fairly common and though they don't always correlate with clinical problems they are associated with osteoarthritis. I like the idea of the bute test for lameness causing the lead problem but wonder if the early onset of an osteophyte may indicate a bit too much work too early.

So, I have decided to work with Claire 3 days a week-- 2 days on groundwork and one day just walking around the arena and around the house. It will be just a walk, mainly she won't forget the saddle. We will work on a 3 step walk, stop, and then softening of the face into bridle with impulsion from the legs, and then a release. I read about this exercise from a John Lyon's trainer and I like it because it teaches the horse to drop his nose, and supple for all transitions.

So, I guess I will keep the blog, but it will be mostly short and mostly boring. Same o' same o'.

I did post Claire's video on a horse forum to get opinions on her movement and what she would be suited for. Surprisingly I got back many responses in favor of reining and HUS.

Interesting.

I do think HUS would be a good thing for Claire. In any case, it will be just walking until January or February.

Oh well, maybe I can teach to do so much on the ground before I continue to do the sidepassing under saddle.

Have a great weekend!