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Above all, the welfare of the horse comes first. How the horse is developed and cared for is vital to setting the horse up for success in a world it did not choose: life as a horse in a domestic environment.
Each horse is a unique individual, and has value whether or not they are ever ridden. But naturally we want to ride, so what do we need to learn, so that we can do all we can to ensure that riding is a positive experience for the horse and rider?
Research into the biomechanics of the ridden horse has demonstrated that to avoid causing the horse pain or causing lasting damage to our horses, we must educate ourselves so that we are attentive to the proper preparation of a horse to be ridden, and that the trainers we work with have adopted ethical training practices. This includes at miniumum proper application of training aids, saddle fit, bit choices, attention to farrier and dental care, veterinary and chiropractic care, optimal nutrition, generous turn out time, all of which are vital to support the body, mind and spirit of the horse so it can be a healthy and happy athlete.
Young Horse Development
Raising the yearling to 4 year old horse is a process of careful, progressive development over time. There is a wonderful, intrinsic value in purchasing a well bred foal and then to participate in the process of the young horse's development. It takes considerable time and energy to produce an athlete who is healthy, strong and willing, but consider the advantages of starting with a clean slate, rather than bearing the cost to undo behavioural problems or manage physical issues that have occured as a result of injuries, or from a horse's prior owners lack of knowledge.
The young horses we raise are social, friendly, and eager to engage in training, because of how they have been developed with a foundation for success. These foundations significantly fast track their progress in training, reducing initial training costs, once the horse is ready for a full training program.
In raising a young horse, and working with any horse, we must honor the spirit of the animal, value horse ownership as a gift, and in turn, offer a life long commitment to the horse. They deserve that and so much more from us.
Toni Petersen, Owner and Founder, Untethered Spirits Farm, LLC
Shelbyville, TN