Week Three:
You Need:
As for Week Two, plus:
Dressage saddle with the irons tied up so
they do not flap and girth both correctly sized
for your horse.
Saddle pad
Week Two:
You Need:
As for Week One, plus:
1 Bridle (no reins or flash)with regular
snaffle or French Link snaffle correctly sized for
your horse
Day 1-6:
Before you start to work your horse today, but
the bridle on under the halter. Your horse will
probably chew a lot, which is normal. Make sure
you can fit three fingers between the jaw and
the nose band so that he has plenty of room to
open his mouth while he gets use to the bit. Do
not tie or lead your horse by the bit, that is what
the halter is for. All we are trying to do today is
to get your horse adjusted to the idea of the bit
being in his mouth.
Repeat day 6 of Week One with your horse wearing both the halter and the bridle.
I know it seems like not much is being accomplished this week, but your horse is still adjusting
to work and to the idea of the bridle. It is best to
take our time and not rush. Another important
thing you are doing is building muscle and fitness
in your horse so that he can more easily do his
job.
10
Day 1:
Today is going to be a big day for your youngster! Repeat day 6 of Week Two. After you
are done for the day and your horse has been
walked cool. Give him a thorough grooming
within sight of the saddle and saddle pad.
If he wants to sniff them, let him do so with
much reassurance and praise.
After he has been groomed, start to rub the saddle pad all over him, starting with his neck. If he
side steps or pulls away, back off, reassure him,
and then start again. Once he is comfortable with
the saddle pad being rubbed all over him (neck,
back, legs, hind quarters, and belly) on both
sides, then put it on his back. He may shake it
off, just put it back on and keep reassuring and
praising him. If he wants to turn his head to sniff,
let him. Once the saddle pad is si