Good Reading
by David Fillebrown
I just finished Curt Pate's new book. Published by Western Horseman and written with help from Western Horseman's Managing Editor Fran Devereux Smith, Ranch Horsemanship offers everyone that rides lots of very practical help for developing a well rounded horse. Start to finish, Ranch Horsemanship creates awareness of purpose and methods that can be used to develop a reliable, safe mount. From equipment, to handling young horses on the ground, to advanced riding, Curt has explained why and how horse owners can go about getting more enjoyment
from their animals.
Although other books may cover many of the subjects Curt approaches in his book, one of the points he seemed to emphasis well is the necessity of balance. "My main job as a rider is not to affect my horse's balance while he does his job. I have a working partnership with my horse, and good partners don't get in each other's way while they work."
Curt's book can help riders understand how to open doors that allow a horse to perform certain moves rather than trying to push the horse through a door you unknowingly have blocked. A horse naturally knows how to stop, turn around, and change gates; we just need to teach him to do these things when we ask him to and not hinder his attempts or willingness perform. Curt is also a big advocate of giving a horse a job to do. Although he starts in Priefert round pens where young horses can move their feet yet not escape, he likes to get "outside" as soon as possible where things won't get old and both horse and rider stay alert. Since most of today's recreational riders don't have a ranch to ride on at home, Curt has several good suggestions on creating a change of surroundings in your own pasture. With a little preparation and the use of things you probably already have around the barn, you can help your horse learn to deal with "boogers" in a controlled environment. Many important steps in developing a good reliable mount can take place right at home. The payoff for exposing your horse to a variety of conditions "before" you encounter them on the trail can be a less embarrassing, more enjoyable, safer ride.
"My riding goal is to do my job and not ruin my horse's day, so that he'll be better for me to work with the next day," Curt says. "If I treat my horse right, he'll look forward to being with me." Simply stated, by reading Ranch Horsemanship, both you and your horse will benefit.
