Kelly’s Blog

Veterinary expert Dr. Jessica Kidd, who we were fortunate to have overseeing Hugo’s case, takes a deep dive into proximal suspensory desmitis (PSD) in this informative video. She breaks down why hindlimb PSD is more challenging to treat than forelimb cases, highlighting the anatomical constraints that make conservative treatment less effective.

This video demonstrates initial groundwork exercises designed to build a connection with your horse and encourage them to willingly follow your lead. The focus is on gentle communication and establishing a partnership, not on scaring the horse.

You’ll see how the presenter approaches the horse calmly, establishes eye contact, and uses gentle movements to encourage the horse to move off and change direction. The importance of the handler’s confident body language is emphasized, ensuring the horse can see and follow them. Maintaining visual connection in these early stages is key.

Full Join Up™ Guidance Join IH Trainer Sandra Williams for a demonstration of Intelligent Horsemanship methods for starting a young horse (or working with a new one). You’ll see a full Join-Up™, adhering to IH ‘guidelines to starting young horses’.

This video covers: a straight Join-Up™; safe tack introduction (training saddle/normal saddle & breast strap); a second send away with saddle (stirrups rolled); invitation in; correctly fitting hobble (with twist); long lining (walk, trot, 2 x direction changes, back up); safe line removal; introduction of rider (stroking, hobble as neck strap, attaching reins); safe leg-up positions (including showing offside eye); rider on (safe tight circles, hind leg stepping under); moving to a larger circle (if confident); safe rider removal; safe exit; self-tack removal; stroke, walk, safe pen exit. Throughout, we emphasise safety awareness and clear communication, demonstrating the initial stages of preparing a horse for ridden work using IH principles.

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