A well-trained, responsive, and intelligent working cow horse is more
than just a pleasure to ride or watch in action; such an animal is an
integral part--a prized employee, if you will--of a ranch's workforce.
How to find and then educate the horse to work cattle in pens and on the
range, to negotiate a variety of terrains, and perform all the other
tasks it will be asked to do (under a variety of often adverse
conditions) is the subject of this handy guide.For example: Being able
to open a gate from horseback is a mandatory job for any cowboy. A good
place to introduce the young horse to this experience is by using a gate
set up as part of an obstacle course. It is desirable and safer if the
gate can swing freely and is without any attachments. Start by simply
walking your horse through the gate when it's open. Reaching down and
gently swinging the gate as you pass through it is the next step. If
your horse is a little spooked by your reaching down, be aware that
horses are naturally afraid of tight places. Once your horse can pass
through an open gate, then attempt to open a closed gate. Be sure your
horse fully understands your hand and leg cues before attempting this
step, because he must be able to move off your leg to stand next to the
fence, move toward the fence as it swings open to let you pass through,
and then move around so you can close it.Written by an experienced
rancher and horse trainer, 101 Ranch Horse Tips will show you how to
start a young horse or improve an older one with techniques that can
apply to performance and enjoyment on or beyond the cattle ranch.
