New USEF Dressage Bitting Rules

BIG NEWS! USEF has changed the bitting rules for dressage, national level for training to 4th level!

Snaffles that offer tongue relief can deviate up 30mm above the surface of the tongue.

 Do you know what that means?

Not only level 2 (level FTP on my scale) but also level 2-3 mouthpieces would be legal (level LTP on my scale)! This would include the Mb04, MB06, and MB36! See photo.

Judy Auble, Sales Manager of Toklat: "Thank you to the USEF for taking time to consider the welfare of the horse and review current research on the need for tongue relief."

Effective Feb 1. Showing internationally will still follow FEI rules.



Level 2-3. Little Tongue Pressure.





Level 2 or Level FTP. Far bit of Tongue Pressure.



This is indeed great news! I know that Dale Myler will be happy.  It is one of his life missions to see dressage horses be ridden in more humane bits (ie. lots of tongue relief or no tongue pressure).

Upward and Onward!

Reinersue

@KISS Reiners

Developing a Rounded Topline

Western Performance Horse Development, Body Control Foundation
One of the key skills a horse needs is to develop a strong topline (back muscles from the withers to the croup). Having an engaged back will help the horse to carry it's rider easily and do what we ask them to do without breaking down and with a great degree of success. We have much better and happier rides because of it.

This is a key component of horse development - especially performance horse development. Or WPHD, PHD.  (I will be using those short forms from now on. haha. It's my computer background to use acronyms. :)

There is a video from Will Faeber, dressage master of California which illustrates this very well. Even though the video is only showing english riders, both disciplines need this strong topline for their events.
Right from the start at the 04sec mark, a black horse is demonstrating a rounded topline and lowered head carriage.  Just envision a western rider and tack on that horse if you need to.
Please watch the video below as there are many examples (2:04 to 2:20 minute mark in particular).

In the video,Will explains at the 1:51 to 2:00 min mark, how it is to be used further in top level dressage for the elevation of the head (high head carriage) for dressage movements.

Now for the western discipline, Will also had nice examples and explained with a chestnut horse (2:04 to 2:20min. mark) of how the horse's head lowers when you raise the topline. Excellent for western! In the western tradition we don't want the horse's head to come higher than the withers to do our western events which some require great amounts of speed.

Rod from IPHDA has this to say on facebook about the video: "This is a good video that shows how to start developing a horses top-line with forward energy. Then at about 1:45 into the video he explains the goal of an advanced level dressage horse and this is where Dressage starts developing strength and elevation, and in my opinion takes a turn from what we want to develop for events that require fluid lateral motion and more abrupt speed changes and transitions.

I also am not sure I like the statement that it takes a certain amount of time to develop a horses top-line since that in my opinion has a lot to do with the horses confirmation, but that is another topic. :O)

Basically a good video to show how and why developing a strong flexible top line is important to any horse. "

Here is the techie part as explained by Rod: "If you stop the video at the 1min mark and then we just keep developing the round back and soft shoulders that allows the horse to carry more weight on the hind end allowing the front feet to stay lighter but still in contact with the ground and not elevating the shoulders by pushing them up with the front feet but holding them up with the abdomen"

The western horse needs to have more forward energy than a dressage horse (also in western dressage) with a lower head to balance the rounded topline in combination with the horse's lowered engaged hindquarters for western movements or maneuvers. Even in events such as western pleasure where the rounded topline would allow the horse to have the lower head carriage we like in western, the rounded topline for smoothness and cadance and the engaged hindend for impulsion (slow as it maybe!).

Here's the video by Bay Area Equestrian Network. 

Putting my spin on WPHD, body control, foundation training.
Reinersue
@KISS Reiners

It's OK to Use a Different Bit to Train Vs. To Show

Julie Goodnight and Dale Myler have a video talking about the bit you use for training and the bit you use for showing. They really don't have to be the same contrary to what we might think or have been told.
Especially for those show events that have restrictions on what a rider can use to bit their horse at a show.

Here's the youtube video.

Here's my tip: Make the mouthpiece of the training bit the same as your show bit (if possible). That way the horse will be used to the proper mouthpiece.

I very often use a combination bit to train in and then will use my show bit towards show time to get the horse used to it. If both bits have the same mouthpiece then it's easier for the horse.

Some events won't let you use the same mouthpiece especially those that require the ole fashion harsher single jointed or double jointed mouthpieces like simple snaffles and french links or dog bones. Oh well.  Just switch back when you're done showing.

You gotta do what you gotta do for the horse's comfort.

Putting my spin on bits

Reinersue

@KISS Reiners

Bit Evaluations & Bitting Services

Basic Bit Evaluation  (Premium package includes a bit fitting):
Generally Susan needs to see the horse and rider and bit to make a proper evalution.
This can be done over the phone or via youtube and email.

1• Assessment of Current Bit (if there is one)
• The current bit is reviewed including it's use and setup.
• Any other bits used are reviewed.

2• Problems or Issues or Improvements are Discussed
• Problems are discussed and demonistrated.
• Issues or improvements are discussed.

3• Goals
• What the rider is hoping to accomplish with a bit evaluation and/or a new bit.

4• The Myler Bitting System
• Susan explains the philosophy behind the myler bitting system and it's benefits. 
• Only bits developed using the myler bitting system philosophy will be recommended.
• Other tools maybe used to evaluate such as computer programs and other bits.

5• Bit Recommendation 
• Susan may recommend a new bit or a change to the current bit and show several bits to describe the recommendation.
• Rider's skill level is discussed.
• Horse's skill level is discussed.

6• Premium Package
• A new bit is fitted to the horse.  Or the current bit is changed.
• Susan helps the rider adjust to the feel of the new bit and how to change the rein cues.
•
If anyone has any questions, please feel free to ask. Please contact me to book your bit evaluation. And don't forget the specials!

For more information, please see other articles on this website. The Myler book: The Level Best for Your Horse is great!

Putting my spin on the Myler Bitting System
Reinersue
@KISS Reiners

Horse Evalutions

Basic Horse Evaluation (Premium package includes a bit evaluation):

Susan needs to see the horse and rider and bit to make a proper evaluation.
This can be done over the phone or via youtube and email.
The rider may want to consider a bit evaluation. Information is here.

1• Assessment of the Horse's Skills  & General Information
• Susan acquires all the general information about the horse - age, training, temperament, conformation, breeding.
• Susan acquires all the general information about the rider - years of experience, formal training, and temperament.

2• Problems or Issues or Improvements are Discussed
• Problems are discussed and demonstrated.
• Issues or improvements desired are discussed.

3• Brief Look at the Current Bit
• The current bit is briefly reviewed including it's use and setup.

4• Goals
• What the rider is hoping to accomplish with this  horse evaluation.

5• Recommendations
• Susan will recommend several changes that would lead the rider to their goals.

6• Premium Package (Bit Evaluation)
• A bit evaluation is done along with the horse assessment.
• Follow up lessons are recommended.

If anyone has any questions, please feel free to ask. Please contact me to book your horse evaluation. And don't forget the specials!

For more information, please see other articles on this website.

Putting my spin on the education - 1 horse at a time!
Reinersue
@KISS Reiners

Winter specials on Training

Training Specials

If you book before the end of March and send a $50 non-refundable deposit, training will be $650/month/horse +HST for the 1st month. 
 $600/month/horse+HST for 2 or more months or 2 or more horses. (Regular $700/month).

Training Can Include:

Basics:

colt starting, safety, groundwork, longeing, horsemanship, Myler Bitting System & bitting, saddle fitting, general advice and information, trail safety, confirmation, horse behaviour, basic care & handling, suitability, etc.

Intermediate:
western performance horse development including collection, body control, foundation, western dressage, pre-reining, the start of western pleasure, showing basics, tune ups, train the trainer, training equipment, team penning, etc... It's all in the development!

Advanced:
starting reining, reining, cow work, show strategy and prep, training your horse to do advanced work, how to improve performance,etc,
What does Shawn Flarida know that you don't know!!

Please contact me for information and to book your training.
Package deal available for other services. 

Please read colt starting outline for more helpful information on training.

Putting my spin on specials!
Reinersue
@KISS Reinersue

Winter Specials on Clinics

Clinic Specials
If you book before the end of March and send a $50 non-refundable deposit, clinics will be $300/day + expenses. (Regular $400/day)

Topics Can Include:
Basics: 
safety, groundwork, longeing, horsemanship, Myler Bitting System and bitting, saddle fitting, general advice and information, trail safety, confirmation, horse behaviour, basic care and handling, suitability, etc.

Intermediate:
 western performance horse development, western dressage, pre-reining, the start of western pleasure, showing basics, tune ups, train the trainer, training equipment, team penning, etc... It's all in the development!

Advanced:
starting reining, reining, cow work, show strategy and prep, training your horse to do advanced work, how to improve performance,etc,
What does Shawn Flarida know that you don't know!!

Please contact me for information and to book your clinic.
Package deal available for multiple days and private lessons.
Please read clinic outline for more helpful information.

Putting my spin on specials!
Reinersue
@KISS Reinersue

Winter Specials! Lessons

Lesson Specials
Basic:
 $30/hr for basic riding lessons: safety, groundwork, longeing, horsemanship, bitting, saddle fitting, general advice and information, trail safety, confirmation, horse behaviour, basic care & handling, suitability, etc.

Intermediate:
$35/hr for intermediate lessons: western performance horse development, western dressage, pre-reining, the start of western pleasure, showing basics, tune ups, train the trainer, training equipment, team penning, etc...

Advanced:
$40/hr for advanced lessons:  starting reining, reining, cow work, show strategy and prep, training your horse to do advanced work, etc,

Please contact me for information and to book your lessons.
Package deal available. Your horse or mine.
Groups welcome.
Please read lesson outline for more helpful information.

Putting my spin on specials!
Reinersue
@KISS Reinersue

Computer Services

Computer Services available from a long time professional:

$20/hr.  (1hr. minimum). Free general advice over the phone.

Tuttoring. Do computer geeks frustrate you? You don't want fancy computer lingo - just some good information on how to do things.
Consulting. Not sure what computer or other computer items to buy? Is it necessary?
Computer setup. Don't know how yourself? Don't have a friend or relative who can help.
Website setup. Want to setup a small website to highlight your farm or business?
Computer advice: Want someone you can call and answer a question or 2 about computers....
Computer programming: I've developed computer software for years. Want help with Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Access, Blogger, Frontpage etc..


I have a unversity degree in computers and a computer professional for over 30 years! I'm here to help. Please contact me for advice, information or help!
 
Susan Dahl
B.Sc. Computer, Math from Acadia University
Certified Professional horse trainer, NCCP coaching theory
Myler Bitting System Certified.

Lessons

I've had several people inquire about lessons over the years and I keep typing the same material into emails. So I thought I would put an outline together of these points and make it available on my website.

Basic & premium packages are available with the following:

Lesson Program Outline

• All lessons are an exchange of cooperative dialog between coach and student. It’s a team effort towards the student’s goal. In other words... it's a customized program for you!
(Gone are the days when your instructor yelled at you during a lesson.. :)
• I ride my horse to demo what I am teaching.
• Sometimes the student will ride my horse to get a feel of what the end result is supposed to feel like.
• Students are encouraged to use their own horse in lessons.
• Lessons will have an overall emphasis of fun, respect and safety.
• Lessons are progressive in nature building on previous skills learned towards the discussed goal.
• Since each student progresses at their own rate, lesson results will vary depending on the student’s learning curve and passion for learning.
• At the start of each lesson, previous material is reviewed and any issues are worked on. A lesson plan is followed but is flexible as per requirements.
• Lesson Format: warm up, progressive training and then a cool down.
• Lesson time doesn’t include tack/untack unless that is the skill being learned.
• Student is expected to have their horse tacked up and warmed up and ready for the start of each lesson.
• All lessons are based on natural horsemanship methods and are reining based including body control and reining fundamentals (ie. western performance horse development).
• There will be a lesson(s) on bitting and the Myler Bitting System philosophy.
•  Anything I train, teach or lecture on can be given in a lesson. This includes 'train the trainer'.
• Susan Dahl as coach shall teach and perform all services in accordance with generally accepted professional standards of NCCP coaching and natural horsemanship.
• Lesson material and possibly voluntary homework may be given for practise between lessons. All students are encouraged to practise their new skills.
• For general riding lessons, all students will learn/reinforce excellent ground manners on the horse such as respecting your space, standing while tied, grooming, leading and general handling.
• For groundwork & general riding lessons, all students will learn/reinforce excellent groundwork such as desensitizing, bridle, saddle, round pen work, flexing, voice commands & horsemanship longeing.  Groundwork is a big part of what I teach.
• For colt-starting lessons, students will learn/reinforce colt starting, such as the horse accepting saddle, bridle, rider, lateral & vertical flexion, walk, jog, trot and lope, stop, backup and turns. See colt starting outline.
• For foundation or western performance horse development lessons, the student will learn body control reining fundamentals where you learn to move/control all the main body parts. To teach a horse balance, softness, lightness, cadence, flexibility, and strength.
• For reining lessons, the student will learn western performance horse development (body control reining fundamentals)  and all reining maneuvers. A reining lesson horse is required for this.
• All advanced ridden work may include the introduction of ranch cow work based on cattle availability.

I do have a lesson and boarding agreement which explains this, basic care of horse while used in lessons (if applicable), other features I provide and your requirements as the student.

If anyone has any questions, please feel free to contact me regarding the basic or premium packages.

Putting my spin on education - 1 lesson at a time.
Reinersue
@KISS Reiners

Clinics

I'm currently setting up clinics for 2012 and I'm always asked about my requirements, what I do, how I do my clinics, so I've put together an outline.

Basic & premium packages are available with the following:


General Clinic Information

• Clinics are designed to be fun, sociable, as a great learning enviroment.
• Clinics can be 1 to several days (a weekend? Or 1-day workshop). 1 day clinics are good as an intro to what I do.
• Topics are custom designed to suit participants. I like to always include a session on the Myler Bitting System philosophy.
• Anything I teach or train can be a clinic topic.
• Days can be split up for beginners vs. advanced. Or topic changes.
• Clinics are progressive in nature. Take-home work is given.
• Maximum number of riders depends on material covered.
• I bring my horse to demo and for riders to ride.
• I bring my bits and resale items for props and resale. I may call in a Myler dealer if clinic is big enough.
• I bring my bit presentations and others in case someone wants to hear the presentation. Usually done at night 1-2hrs in length while socializing.
• I bring my booth for a display. I use a computer, flip charts and other props.
• Private lessons, horse evaluations, bit evaluations, etc. are done as scheduled or as time permits. They are $40/hr.
• I charge $400/day (for the 1st day. Package deal for more days) + expenses.
• Always available for questions!

Clinic Format – Very flexible and customized
• Upon arrival, put my horse in a stall, booth setup.
• Meet and Greet with everyone. Start off the fun.
•         Get to know each rider, horse, problems, and goals of clinic.
•        Get everyone’s information to put them on my e-newsletter list.
• Clinic starts and ends at prearranged time (9-5?). Breaks for meals.
• There is alternating sessions (2-3hrs) of riding & theory time (hands on or via presentation) as best suits riders learning ability.
• I demo each topic, answer any questions, and have each student work on topic which may include riding my horse.
• I work with every participant’s unique needs, goals and problems.
• At the end of the clinic, participants fill out comment sheets.
• Pack booth. Say good-byes and leave until next time.
• Answer on-going questions about take-home work, etc… from participants via facebook, email, etc…

Please contact me to book a clinic. Also check out my specials.
Basic and premium, custom packages are available!
Putting my spin on clinics and education!
Reinersue
@KISS Reiners

Colt Starting Program Outline

I get a lot of inquiries about colt starting at this time of the year and was asked to provide more information.  I didn't realize that I hadn't put an outline here on my website. So here it is:

Basic & premium packages are available with the following:

Colt Starting Program Outline

• All of my training teaches basic handling so as to teach respect and for safety.
• Safety for horse and rider is a big part of my program.
• Heavily based on groundwork to make it easy for the horse to learn.
• Use my reinersue horsemanship program (based on my 10 years experience with Clinton Anderson 'the Method' horsemanship) to make it natural for the horse to learn.
• Use reining principles or techniques (from my 20 years experience as a reining trainer) which I call western performance horse development or body control to make a better trained horse. It's Al Dunning's Western Dressage. Softness and lightness.
• Of course, all horses are bitted properly using the Myler Bitting System philosophy.
• All of my training starts with these skills taught:
 Basic handling, Respect, Safety, A Work Ethic, Softness and then Lightness
 Mounting block training
 round penning
 voice commands
 Flexing – lateral and vertical
 Leg yielding
 horsemanship longeing
 side driving
 started under saddle & bridle using an MB04 (low port) snaffle
 walk, jog, trot and lope
 Collection (vertical flexion while moving)
 Stop,
 backup,
 steering via neck reining,
 pattern work
 trail riding

• Lesson Format: warm up, progressive training, and then a cool down.
• I can get most of this done on an average good minded horse in 30 days.
• It's not solid but it's a good start.
• I can't guarantee this of course because it depends on the temperament and handling of the horse.
• 60 days (or more) makes a much better horse of course. (And I give discounts for more work).
• In the 60 days I get more loping, lead departures and I start into more of the western performance horse development with more softness, lightness, collection, and body control work such as side passing, and 2 tracking.
• If the horse hasn't been handled much then I have to spend some time teaching it to be handled, cross tied, lead, etc… I handle the horses every day.
• If the horse has been handled but has issues then I have to spend some time teaching it manners and to be respectful. All horses get taught good handling for my safety, the horse as well as the owners.
• I teach mostly western. I do start english horses under saddle from the perspective of direct reining and leave out the neck reining part.
• I do encourage everyone to come and watch at any time.
• I do have a height restriction of 15H or under unless the horse is extremely docile then I make exceptions. I just won't start really tall horses- it's a safety concern for me as I do all my training by myself.

I do have a training agreement which explains this, basic care while in training, other features I provide and your requirements as the owner.  Basic and premium packages are available.

If anyone has any questions, please feel free to ask. Please contact me to book your training.  And don't forget the specials!

Putting my spin on colt starting!
Reinersue
@KISS Reiners

20 years in Reining, 10 years in Aussie Horsemanship

2012 will mark my 20th year in Reining with the ORHA and NRHA.

And 2012 will also mark my 10th year in the natural horsemanship movement studying under Clinton Anderson. What I call Aussie horsemanship.


2012 will certainly be a big year for me as we all approach Dec. 21.2012. The year of enlightenment.


I'm wishing you and yours an Adventurous 2012!


Upward and Onward!
Putting my spin on education!
Reinersue
@KISS Reiners

Western Dressage for Performance?

It's not what I thought it was...  Western Dressage, that is.  I admit that I struggled with it ever since I joined WDAA.  Now that I've read the WDAA or USEF WD rules (http://westerndressageassociation.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/WDRulesAllBreeds.pdf), I believe (competition) western dressage is dressage under western tack (just not including a rising trot) from my western perspective that is.  Please read the rules and decide for yourself.

I like Al Dunning's version of Western Dressage: "A set of dressage-based exercises that result in a better broke horse". (Western Dressage DVD).

I believe a western horse needs to develop a rounded topline, lightness in the shoulders (and therefore a lower head to balance themselves) to be able to perform the traditional western maneuvers that we do with or without speed and changes of direction while performing them collected  and in self carriage with no control (via a draped rein).  I believe western riders need to learn to cue or communicate these requests eventually one-handed and with no contact on the reins - sometimes even bridleless!  (I saw a bridleless western pleasure class on youtube the other day. Cool!)  I don't see that reflected in the USEF WD rules. In fact, it specifies high head carriage, constant light rein contact and no draped rein.

 So its still about teaching a western horse and western rider the skills necessary to do well in traditional western events... skills such as lightness, softness, suppleness, cadence, balance, flexibility and strength. To me, reining or reined cow horse is the highest expression of this ability and skill.  As you can see the western tradition has always done it - we just didn't call it dressage.

 IPHDA describes it well in the print below:

It's been quite a journey.
If you need more information, please ask. I'm most happy to chat.

Putting my spin on western performance dressage or body control.
Reinersue
@KISS Reiners

Holstein Xmas Parade

Here is a picture of Leslie and I at the Holstein Xmas Parade this past weekend. Leslie Unruh, is the 2011-2012 Queen of the Furrow.
Notice her horse Sandy is wearing a tiera! :)

Thanks to Brenda Stewart for taking the 2nd photo.

It was a blast!
Reinersue
@KISS Reiners

Reining vs. Dressage vs. Western Dressage

 I've been working on my Western Dressage presentation for January and I've been learning many, many things about dressage, classical dressage priniciples and training. After all, dressage is a french word for training.
I've been discussing many ideas about differences and similiarities with dressage principles and the western style of riding.  This is where Western Dressage (WD) is forming.

I've seen youtube videos on Western Dressage and while fascinating, it puzzles me. Here is a video here of a Western Dressage class at the Morgan Grand Nationals.   Notice the similarity to english dressage tests and requirements.

I also commented recently on a video that showed a dressage horse and a reining horse.  Youtube video here.    Rod Miller of IPHDA had this to say about the video and my comments about it.

Rod wrote: "Susan that is dressage verse reining, and there is very little similarity in the 2 except they both use patterns in competitions. a very good example of that was when they switch horses, first thing the dressage rider does is ask the horse to stay straight while spinning and it does not work. eventually he lets the horse bend and stay a little flatter and the spin is better, same with the Reiner riding the dressage horse he tries to get the horse to bend t do the Pirouette and the horse swings its butt and can not perform really well,

The principles of dressage and reining training are different I know many want to make them this sister type of event but they are both cool in their own right but not very similar at all. JMO"

That is the understanding I am getting as well.  I thought Western Dressage was the extensive foundation work that we put on a western performance horse in order for them to do well in western events. Like the vaquers when they made a 'bridle' horse. But that is not the case.  What do you think?

Putting my spin on Western Dressage
Reinersue
@KISS Reiners

Tom Dorrance - True Unity

Every once in a while I get an article that I just have to share with everyone. America's Horse Daily (AQHA) is a daily enewsletter I get about all kinds of information.

Today it was a tribute to Tom Dorrance. According to America's Horse Daily:  "The man who inspired Ray Hunt, Greg Ward, Dr. Robert Miller, Jack Brainard, Pat Parelli and thousands more."


Resistance free training or natural horsemanship... whatever term you want to use, Tom Dorrance was the grandfather here in North America.

AQHA states: "“This is not magic,” he has said. “It is reality.”

Here are some notable quotes: "He was so tuned in, he seemed to almost be sending the horse a message by mental telepathy."

"...Tom believed animals could read people’s thoughts, and that if people would try to do the same, and see things from the animal’s perspective, they could create an environment of willing communication."
"“The best thing I try to do for myself is to try to listen to the horse. I don’t mean let him take over. I listen to how he’s operating; what he’s understanding or what he doesn’t understand; what’s bothering him and what isn’t bothering him. I try to feel what the horse is feeling and operate from where the horse is.” – Tom Dorrance, May 11, 1910 – June 11, 2003"

Here's a link to the article:  http://americashorsedaily.com/true-unity/

I believe in mental telepathy with a horse and other animals. Do you?

Putting my spin on the Sixth Sense.
Reinersue
@KISS Reiners

Recycle Old Bit Technology

 I've been doing a big clean up in my house. You know those 'just in case' items - just in case you need 6 dojiggers or what-you-call-it items, after all.... YOU NEVER KNOW..... right?
 Wrong!
 I'm in a 'minimalist' mode. I've been getting rid of everything that I don't need - no more holding onto items that I just don't use.  It makes it easy to keep my house clean.  I'm not keeping 3,4, 5, 6 of something. What for?

 When I first moved into my place 2.5 yrs ago, there were tasks that I said I would 'do later'.  Well... later is now.  I keep saying 'later is now' as I refreshed everything. I did a bit of remodelling.  I also replaced every light fixture in the house. Just to update everything.

 What a lift!  Have you tried it?  It's great.

 As for the photo.... I was throwing out for scrap metal, the bits that I no longer use.  With the Myler Bitting System philosophy, I've not used a single jointed mouthpiece in years!  The bits were just sitting there, taking up room.

 You can see that I found a great useful purpose for this bit! You would think I made it especially for the redecorating I did in my bathroom. It fits the toilet paper holder beautifully!

 Putting my spin on remodelling - 1 bit at a time!
 Reinersue
 @KISS Reiners

Dale and I - Myler Clinic in Quebec

  

It was a damp, miserable rainy weekend in mid-October but nothing was going to dampen my spirits on this occasion – I had waited long for this. I looked forward with anticipation on meeting Dale Myler after speaking with him all year. This was to be my major step of my Myler Bitting System technical certification. Months of preparing, Dale would do a clinic in Quebec sponsored by Jeff Carruthers, president of Cavalier Equestrian Inc.

Dale had arrived from Missouri Thursday evening and began the clinic at a hunter/jumper barn the following morning. (photo of Dale Myler. Photos courtesy Cavalier Equestrian Inc.)

The day would start with a detailed powerpoint presentation on the Myler Bitting System philosophy and the extensive research behind it, followed by evaluating a bunch of horses to see their bitting issues and recommending a solution. The transformation at the end of the day is the 'icing on the cake' for all who attended and witnessed.

My journey started Friday in Stratford where I meet Jeff and 2 managers from Cavalier. We were to be travelling companions. The rain never let up as we drove many hours to Mirabel. Upon arriving after a long day eager to rest, we had pleasantly found out that Dale and Richard from Cavalier had just finished for the day and were just sitting down to supper. The restaurant was famous for being the location of the last legal hanging in Quebec – a witch apparently.

I was anxious to meet Dale at last – like an eager student meeting their mentor. We all exchanged hugs and I immediately recognized Dale's professionalism, confidence, and ease with which he mingled with all types of people. Yet on top of that, Dale can be said to be one of the good ole boys from Missiouri. His southern accent recalled many a great story until regrettably time called us to turn in for the big day to follow.

My fellow travellers looked forward to the next day. I, however was a little nervous as my evaluation was to begin. I, along with Richard had the job of evaluating each horse then conferring with Dale as to the problem and then the bitting solution. Everyone watched the results.

Saturday was the day of reiners at the training barn of Gilles Godbeault. Setup was done. Presentation was good. A lot of new material since the last time I had seen it. Dale had a great sense of humour. As each rider would ride and present their horse, I would discuss the problem with Dale and recommend the bit that would improve the relationship with horse and rider. Training issues were not dealt with. The new bit would then be fitted on the horse and then the rider would ride the horse to see the change. (Photo of Dale and I adjusting the fit of the Myler combination bit)

Everyone in the arena would see the transformation. Time and time again, horse after horse would exhibit a more relax, calm way of going. Some horses you saw some measure of change, while others were dramatic – it changed and amazed everyone in the room. Dale was used to it.

Saturday night's supper was lively and again full of interesting stories from all over the world. It was easy to tell that Dale was at ease here among the french speaking people as he must be anywhere. He had recently returned from Brazil prior to this trip.

Sunday found our team at a facility where Linda Robert, long listed in 2009 for the Canadian Dressage Team, was training and riding. The process would repeat itself as in the previous day. Dale would customized the presentation for each group, this day focusing more on FEI and bitting rules – a subject Dale is quite passionate about. I was more comfortable this day since I had known the process but I had not evaluated such high end dressage, hunter and jumpers before. (photo of Josee riding a jumper for the first time with the new bit)

Jeff had asked me which day was more challenging, the first day with reiners (an event I'm most familiar with though my first day evaluating in front of Dale) or Sunday, a day with dressage and hunter, jumpers and being my second day evaluating. I felt that both presented their challenges but I found both days equally intriguing. I loved both days.

Dale said that every once in a while, there is a horse and rider that is adverse to the Myler Bitting System philosophy. It happens. Some people are very traditional and don't like change. It was into the early evening when this happened, after a long day, but we stayed and spoke with this rider at length. Dale even offered to have the lady resaddle her horse and work for as long as she needed.

After a long successful clinic, Richard and his wife Susan opened their home to us and prepared us a lovely meal. Linda had joined us, and together everyone enjoyed a great time. There is something to be said for a gathering of like minded people. And as always, Dale would pipe up with yet again another interesting tale of his. Hats off to Dale for his stamina.

As for me.... as I was seated in the SUV on the long driving journey back to Stratford, you could see me with a very big smile on my face, recounting everything that had happened, feeling ecstatic with my evaluation, humbled by the experience and eager for the future.

Upward and onward,

Reinersue

@KISS Reiners

Myler Clinic in Quebec

Dale adjusting Combination bit

Dale discussing bitting solutions

Dale introducing new bit to horse

Susan & Susan talking about bits

All photos courtesy Cavalier Equestrian Inc.

Thanks to all who made it possible.
Reinersue
@KISS Reiners

Integrity With Your Horse

I have been reading Harvey MacKay's business (and personal) wisdom for quite sometime now.  He sent me an email on Integrity and I was impressed. So much so that I wrote to him and asked permission to reprint his article.  I believe this is something that we can all take personally.

So here it is, entitled 'Integrity is All that Matters', Reprinted with permission from nationally syndicated columnist Harvey Mackay, author of the New York Times #1 bestseller "Swim With The Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive."
'In our country, and indeed all over the globe, we are facing so many crises that we hardly know which one to address first.

But one issue that is rarely identified as a real crisis, which I believe is at the root of so many of these other problems, is a crisis in integrity. So many problems would be greatly diminished or perhaps even disappear if people had acted with integrity and honor.


Pluck a few current events out of the headlines: the housing crisis precipitated by bad loans based on false information . . . the rogue UBS trader who lost $2 billion of his company's money by making unauthorized trades . . . the high-ranking government officials or elected representatives who never get around to paying their taxes until they get caught . . . identity thieves who destroy innocent people's credit by "borrowing" their financial and personal information . . . the movie star who gets drunk or high and goes on a rampage of rants and abuse . . . and I could go on and on.

So we combat this? You'd think in the loudmouth, instant video world of the Internet, it would be difficult to hide. Instead, our culture seems to accept that some people will just behave badly and we should put up with it.

No, we shouldn't.

We need to draw the line somewhere. We should be able to expect people to live up to reasonable standards. We have an epidemic of blaming others for mistakes, or worse, attempting a cover-up, rather than taking responsibility and swallowing a few bitter pills. We need to teach kids that their actions have consequences, and then apply those consequences. And we need to be prepared to forgive those who are truly sorry for their behavior, and not just because they got caught.

Does that sound terribly old-fashioned? I think it should never go out of fashion.

As I have said so many times before: If you have integrity, nothing else matters. If you don't have integrity, nothing else matters.

Assuming the leadership of an organization understands the importance of integrity, the next important decision involves the quality of the people who are hired to work for it.

Many years ago, when I was first hiring employees for my fledgling envelope company, I would check references and ask around for information that would influence my decisions. As tempting as that sounds, in this environment, it is foolhardy. Responsible companies need to perform background checks to expose any red flags that aren't clearly evident.

I have recently begun working with Merchants Information Solutions, which helps companies with background screening and identity theft solutions. The Merchants' Integrity Test is designed to help companies avoid high-risk hires by highlighting potential problem areas, like criminal behavior, lying, hostility and substance abuse.

Tests like these are not expensive ($10 to $20 each). Considering the damage a bad hire can do to your company and your customers, it's a bargain. Consider this scenario: An employee who has access to corporate or client credit information, and chooses to steal that information, could cost the company much more than the actual money stolen.

Recovering from an ethical breach sucks the energy out of the most successful operations. Overcoming mistrust and rebuilding relationships is a costly, time-consuming process. Often, the road to restoring confidence is marked with detours, and occasionally, a dead end.

I am encouraged by the buzz I'm hearing from my colleagues who are returning the topic of integrity to the forefront of their business conversations.

I recently introduced my friend, sports and business icon Jerry Colangelo, who hosted Integrity Summit 2011 in Phoenix, put on by the Integrity Business Institute, which Jerry cofounded. This event was organized to educate executives, managers and decision-makers on the importance of making integrity the number one organizational value. Doing the right thing is essential to success, and it avoids destructive and costly issues.

At the summit, we heard from nine other speakers whose occupations ranged from the corporate counsel for the Go Daddy Group and computer parts giant Avnet to a jeweler, an FBI agent, real estate developer and the general counsel for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona. Their backgrounds and experiences spanned the spectrum of business enterprises. Yet every speaker echoed the same message: integrity is an essential component of a successful company.

And, I would add, a successful individual.

Mackay's Moral: Doing the right thing is never the wrong thing to do.'

This also implys to your relationship with horses as well. Horses only know intregrity. We can learn from them on this score.
 
Putting My Spin on Integrity.
Reinersue
@KISS Reinersue

Natural Horsemanship Not Wimpy Horsemanship

Rick Lamb of 'The Horse Show with Rick Lamb' emailed me a great link to one of his blog talk radio programs on Balancing Gentleness and Firmness in Horses. The guest speaker is Clinton Anderson.

Both Rick and Clinton are big promoters of natural horsemanship.
And so am I in terms of my horsemanship being classical with an aussie twist!
(I've brought this up as I run into this situation several times a year).

Rick explains natural horsemanship. I like this definition of natural horsemanship. What it is and what it is not... Here's Rick's intro from the talk show.
"Chances are you've been around horses for awhile. You've seen people that were kinda harsh with their horses; little heavy handed.
At the same token you've probably also seen people that were total wimps. The horse just ran over them and completely took advantage.

Hi everybody Rick lamb for the horse show.
Neither one of the those scenarios is ideal if you're trying to establish a relationship with a horse. Trying to train a horse. Trying to have a safe life just even a good trail ride with a horse.
And I've got to tell you this is a bit of a misconception about the whole idea of natural horsemanship. We talk about natural horsemanship a lot on this show. It's something I believe in. Most of the trainers that are out there today believe in it to a greater or lesser degree. They pick and choose some of the things they like or don't like about different applications of it.
But I think everybody agrees that the basic concept here is that this is not totally gentle horsemanship. This is doing things that are natural from a horse's standpoint.
Communicating with him in a way that he understands based on communication in a herd of horses. And if you've ever watched a herd of horses for any period of time you'll know that they are not always gentle with each other.

There is sutler things going on with body language and sometimes those escalate to the point where they become physical and horses can be sometimes rather violent with each other. But it's not a first resort. It's a last resort. After they've tried the body language.

Anyway, it's a very delicate and very interesting topic to talk about how much firmness we should incorporate in our relationship with our horses. And we're going to talk about that today with Australian clinician Clinton Anderson. ....."

I highly recommend listening to this blog talk radio program.

Don't Do Wimpy Horsemanship
I've come across this natural horsemanship vs. wimpy horsemanship several times when dealing with clients. Maybe because I'm a woman... that potential clients think that I will be extremely gentle to the point of being wimpy. (Not all clients are like this, of course. They understand).

Women Are Naturally Gentle
Women do have a tendency of being gentle and that's great in natural horsemanship. I am quite thankful for being a woman as I do have this natural tendency to be gentle. It's great for my training. And a lot of woman can 'relate' to me that way. :)

Also, a few women are SO gentle all the time, to the point of being wimpy and then the horse... to quote Rick.... "The horse just ran over them and completely took advantage."

So I have to let those potential clients know that I do classical horsemanship with an aussie natural horsemanship influence. What is natural to the horse? I can't let a horse walk all over me as that's not safe. I can't let that happen to a client or rider either.
It's not respectful on the horse's part. It can be dangerous too.
So we do want to be gentle first. And we also need to be firm when necessary; just like horses do.

Men Tend to Be Assertive
On the other hand, men have a tendency of being too assertive and it can be great IF they 'tune it down' for when firmness is required.
And then there are also a few men who are so aggressive to the point of being too harsh all the time. And then the horse becomes fearful. That's not good either. That's not natural horsemanship and I don't do that here.
That's not respectful from the person's side of the team.
So men definitely have to develop their gentle side to do natural horsemanship well.

I help all my aggressive clients, men and women with being more natural to a horse (from the horse's point of view) and all my too gentle (or wimpy) clients, women and men with being more assertive or firm when necessary. So my program is based on classical & aussie natural horsemanship, body control reining techniques.

If you want help training your horse using classical horsemanship methods, please contact me.

Putting My Spin on Horsemanship
Reinersue
©Copyright KISS Reiners

Kits & Kittens

I've been busy this month working on my professional update.  I just purchased Clinton Anderson's kits.  I will certainly be busy Learning, Training, Teaching. I'm always looking for good information to incorporate into my program.

This is also the time of the year when we see the fall leaves, play with the new kittens in the barn and plan for the winter ahead.

I will be updating the website soon. I'm reorganizing how things are laid out - better for you the viewer.

If anyone has questions, or would like me to talk about a topic, please let me know.

Upward & Onward,
Reinersue
@KISS Reiners 

Ketchup

I call myself a 'learnaholic'. I took that term from Clinton Anderson.

Speaking of Clinton Anderson...  Recently, I joined his No Worries Club searching for more education on his natural horsemanship program called THE METHOD.  I'm always learning.

GOSH!  Time sure flys by doesn't it.  I didn't realize how much new stuff Clinton has out there. I have some 'ketching up' to do...

What I really like is the fact that he now has more videos on reining training! Great. Now I will add to my program with some of his reining training techniques. He is certainly up to date on the latest trends. I've also joined Shawn Flarida's eTraining video series as well. Stay tuned for more articles on the newest training styles and techniques!!

What is also great is that Clinton now trains and shows reined cow horses. Doubly great! I've started into reined cow horses myself a couple of years ago. I just had a mechanical cow installed in my indoor arena.  I've been going to team penning practises for years now to learn how to read a cow.

So stay tuned for some exciting new information as I share this with you!

Putting my spin on education - 1 DVD at a time!
Reinersue
@KISS Reiners

Circus Tricks For Respect

 I've heard of doing 'circus tricks' with your horse.... I guess... I never thought to teach my horses to do circus tricks. What for?  I thought it was dumb or pointless.
Some people teach their horses to bow. 'Oh, isn't that cute'. Again, I didn't see the point other than for entertainment.

That was my opinion until I talked to Capt. Gary Lane last week, another Toklat Myler Ride Team member who trains gaited horses and rehabilitates problem horses.

What I realized after talking with Gary was that teaching a horse to bow or in particular to lay down on command was a great way to get a horse to really respect and trust it's handler.
As horse people know, horses are quite vulnerable while laying down. Other horses will often stand guard.
It's not easy to get some horses to want to lay down initially.  And I was surprised to see a lot of youtube videos on laying horses down.

So I believe and have now found out that laying a horse down and then really 'loving on' the horse while down, will build incredible respect and trust in the horse. It's amazing.

Caution While Learning To Lay a Horse Down
  Remember the TV saying, 'Please do not try this at home' when they were showing dangerous stunts put on by stuntmen? This is similar.
 I've laid 4 horses down now and at times, I was really hopping. Dodging flying hooves or whirling horses as they tried to not lay down.  Someone doing this will have to be quick on their feet to avoid safety issues.
  And certainly for the safety of the horse, it's important where and when you ask the horse to lay down.  It looks simple but there is a fair bit to it when you take into consideration safety and the horse's mental and physical welfare.

Emphasizing My Point
   I do want to emphatically state that it could be 'tricky' to do if you're not careful especially the first few times. Once the horse knows how to lay down on cue then I don't think it's much of a concern other than staying out of their way. 

  Horses, who seriously refuse to lay down should be left to trainers to teach.  This is where you have to know the disposition of your horse. A very willing, nice tempermented horse would be more accepting of you asking them to lay down.  A more wilful, stubborn or really disrespectful horse could possibly put up a fight.  I have to see if I can get the link to a Clinton Anderson youtube video where he puts a bad minded horse down to teach respect. It was amazing.  Does someone know the video I'm talking about?

I believe this is a good next step after Round Penning for Respect. If you have respect issues, it helps.  I also think it's a good idea as an advanced groundwork exercise for all horses. I will certainly teach all my horses to do it.

Lastly, thanks to Blondie as the subject of the great photo shot above. She was enjoying me rubbing her forehead after she laid down. Thanks to Dr. Chantal Spleiss for taking the photo.

Putting My Spin on Building Trust & Respect
Reinersue
@KISS Reiners

Circular Impressions

In a previous article titled Get My Drift?, I referred to a horse leaning on a rider's outside rein and leg and drifting outward back towards a wall. This causes steering problems. The article touched on circles as an exercise to tell if your horse is leaning outward.



I wanted to include another problem riders have to watch out for when doing proper circles and that's the horse fading in.  You want to make the proper impression when doing circles - a perfectly rounded circle where the horse stays between the reins and your legs. (Photo showing circular impressions in the sand).

Fading In
   Is also called 'dropping an inside shoulder' or leaning in.  Your circles resemble more of a tear drop shape than a circle.
  Though it may not seem like a big deal if it happens, it does cause problems in other areas.

Going Somewhere
  Fading in will cause a horse to eventually not want to pick up a correct lead before loping.
  The horse will not want to stay straight in other exercises which will throw off their balance.
  The horse ducks in somewhere and you scrap your knees on something.
  You get the idea.

 So just like the problem of a horse drifting, it's equally important to correct a horse from fading in.

Circle Drill
  I can't believe that I haven't talked about the CIRCLE DRILL yet in an article. Wow! I'm amazed.
  Dell Hendricks was featured in a Horse& Rider magazine issue years ago where he descibed how he made his perfect circles in his circle maneuver. Here is the article on his website: http://www.hendricksreininghorses.com/.
  That is the exercise I use to fix fading in and leaning out.

 Putting my Spin on Circles
 Reinersue
@KISS Reiners



Get My Drift?

One of the common problems in steering I see with riders, is definitely most noticeable in circles - an exercise every rider does with their horse.  Any figure that requires a curved or rounded line. Why is that? 

  It's also easiest to spot while loping, though you can still see it while walking, jogging and trotting. So for example, while loping a circle, a rider without realizing it, will drift towards the rail or wall - making an ever bigger circle. Some riders have a tough time keeping their horses on the correct circle. Again, it's most noticeable while training for a proper circle maneuver in reining.



 And what happens unfortunately if a rider doesn't know how to remedy this, will 'sneak' an inside rein to steer the horse where they should go.  Not good. I've seen a lot of western riders being taught incorrectly to use an inside rein for steering or fixes and of course, that's not proper neck reining.

Notice the horse leaning on the outside, right rein and the rider using an inside left rein to steer.

In The Beginning there was Rail Riding

  I remember when I was first taught to ride many years ago, I was always taught to ride along the rail. Back then, everyone western (I can't speak for the english side), was always taught western pleasure and to ride on the rail. Why is that? 

   Perhaps to get maximum square footage for riding? Was it easier for the instructor to teach? Or the instructor assumed everyone was going to ride in a rail class someday? Who knows? It was probably all of that.



  I see horses often ridden close to the rail for a lot of their riding session. I see it all the time.   Many riders still today are first taught how to ride staying close to the rail for comfort and then just get used to riding there. Or think that's where they should be...

Rail Competition

Speaking of where they should be..., this makes sense for the 'rail' riders in competition - in which case, it's a very good thing! And so I'm not referring to those riders. I'm talking about generally riding around an enclosed riding area and most times being near the outside wall or rail for no specific reason.

Why am I mentioning this?  Well... without realizing it, riders are teaching their horses to drift towards the wall.

Get My Drift...
  Horses get used to being ridden near the rail.  So naturally they will gravitate towards the rail.  The problem is that when riding not near the rail such as circles or other figures around the arena, the horse will lean on the rider's outside leg and outside rein and drift back towards the rail - a very familiar place to be.

 This is a problem.  If rider's don't realize it, the horse just slowly moves back towards the rail and learns to lean.  And then when it comes time to steer in circles, the horse is not responding as well as they should be to a request from the rider's outside rein and/or leg.  Often times riders don't realize this.

 It's important for the rider therefore, to do exercises to keep the horse responding well to the outside rein and leg and to remember to not let your horse drift towards the wall.

Keep Off The Rail
Anyone who has taken lessons from me knows that I stress the 'keep off the rail'. I can understand that beginner riders may need the comfort of the rail when first starting but I encourage riders to come off the rail as soon as they can. And using the rail or wall to start to teach western dressage maneuvers is good too. Again, coming off the rail as soon as the horse or rider is ready to advance. 

So remember, if you don't want your horse to get into a bad habit of leaning on your outside rein and/or leg, then don't let you horse drift back towards the rail.  Lope a circle or two and you will see what I mean.

Putting my spin on getting my drift in steering!
Reinersue
@KISS Reiners