Get sloppy!

So there’s a time and a place to stay clean but sometimes it’s a better idea to go outside instead of staying in the arena.

In Oregon we get a ton of rain. Most of us board where and indoor arena is or have one ourselves if we are fortunate enough. Schooling in the arena is a daily routine for us but sometimes it’s good to switch it up!

My gelding is what I call, a “princess”. He hates water, mud and getting his toes wet. Trying to walk him through puddles is impossible he’s stubborn and avoids it. So we thought outside of the box or arena persay!

What helps my youngsters get over their fear of puddles, water or just getting them out of their prissy bubble, I like to lunge them in a sloppy, soupy round pen. All horses can benefit. Yes it’s going to make your horse dirty but if it’s a sand arena it will brush off when it’s dry.

Mind you I spend 90% of the time lunging the horse only at a trot then a few canter laps each way before ending the lesson.

After lunging in the soupy round pen my horses willingly went through puddles when they wouldn’t touch them before.

Have fun, switch it up and keep them learning new things in new environments!