Search found 2738 matches

by piedmontfields
Wed Sep 01, 2021 1:18 am
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Who rides bareback?
Replies: 24
Views: 5086

Re: Who rides bareback?

I do but not routinely with the current horse. Emi is less comfortable than she looks bareback (and I use a pad). That said, I find it relaxing and a great way to open my hips and lengthen my legs.
by piedmontfields
Fri Aug 27, 2021 1:35 am
Forum: Veterinary, Nutrition, Grooming & Farrier Questions
Topic: Odd sweating stains
Replies: 10
Views: 2654

Re: Odd sweating stains

Like others, I've seen this related to injury/nerve damage. It can look really weird/striking!
by piedmontfields
Fri Aug 27, 2021 1:33 am
Forum: The Observation Lounge/ Cookbook Forum even Hot Topics
Topic: Picking a new barn, help
Replies: 43
Views: 7340

Re: Picking a new barn, help

Truly I am thinking of you all processing change and new (hopefully better) situations!

I have the country back-up of acreage and means to adapt it, but frankly I need a boarding barn given my crazy work life.
by piedmontfields
Fri Aug 27, 2021 1:31 am
Forum: The Observation Lounge/ Cookbook Forum even Hot Topics
Topic: College Ramblings
Replies: 6
Views: 2166

Re: College Ramblings

I agree that this is a "congratulations" moment and that many more sweet and special periods are to come. Enjoy, Sue.
by piedmontfields
Thu Aug 26, 2021 2:59 pm
Forum: The Observation Lounge/ Cookbook Forum even Hot Topics
Topic: Picking a new barn, help
Replies: 43
Views: 7340

Re: Picking a new barn, help

Glad your boarding options are plentiful and things are aligning for you and Lynx! Fingers cross for M. and Susan. I do not have that plethora of choices where I am (but am at a fantastic place). As an aside, one thing I need to be aware of with turnout is my mare's tendency to be overly attached if...
by piedmontfields
Sat Aug 14, 2021 10:38 pm
Forum: Tack, Apparel, Facilities and Transportation
Topic: Proposed dress rule changes!!
Replies: 18
Views: 5024

Re: Proposed dress rule changes!!

When you have a grey (white) horse, white breeches only show off how well you've cleaned your breeches or your horse.

Cheers to this decision. That said, I love the look in FEI classes and am used to well-worn versions from the serious (and thin) eventers at my barn.
by piedmontfields
Sat Aug 14, 2021 10:36 pm
Forum: Veterinary, Nutrition, Grooming & Farrier Questions
Topic: Rehabbing the mild stifle strain
Replies: 54
Views: 8465

Re: Rehabbing the mild stifle strain

Fingers crossed! Mostly, he looks weak and not ready for the frame expectation he is being offered (see Exvet's Brandon thread for a good ex. of young horse riding).

I hope he continues to improve. And yes, he is absolutely handsome and adorable!
by piedmontfields
Sat Aug 14, 2021 10:32 pm
Forum: Young Horse Forum and Breeding and Registries
Topic: HTBF Colonel Brandon
Replies: 109
Views: 20904

Re: HTBF Colonel Brandon

He is really coming along! I tend to agree that his mouth will change after his canines erupt.
by piedmontfields
Tue Aug 10, 2021 1:05 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Tesla's stops and spin outs
Replies: 113
Views: 21182

Re: Tesla's stops and spin outs

Love the yellow alien abduction. Canter motivation!
by piedmontfields
Tue Aug 10, 2021 1:04 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Lets talk about stretching for the mid-upper level lads and lassies (for real this time)
Replies: 23
Views: 5114

Re: Lets talk about stretching for the mid-upper level lads and lassies (for real this time)

I do a long walk warm-up with a long, low neck (15+ minutes). I do a cool down (a little trot with stretching and long rein walk). If I feel like the horse needs a break or reward in the middle of work, I may ask the horse to reach and lower its neck, and then return to the working frame. To me it i...
by piedmontfields
Mon Aug 09, 2021 2:33 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Tesla's stops and spin outs
Replies: 113
Views: 21182

Re: Tesla's stops and spin outs

Good to hear your update, SF! I was thinking about this thread as my mare and I slowly return to some actual work. Let's just say it's been a bit shocking for Emi to return to some basic work and we've had our moments of stalling and incredulity :lol: even as she seems genuinely delighted to be doin...
by piedmontfields
Sun Aug 08, 2021 10:56 pm
Forum: The Observation Lounge/ Cookbook Forum even Hot Topics
Topic: Thank you present for instructor?
Replies: 6
Views: 1993

Re: Thank you present for instructor?

Great idea! I will just mention that it is totally okay to give gift certificates to things your instructor loves/enjoys....besides horses.

Often, that is even more of a treat as it takes them away from their everyday.
by piedmontfields
Thu Aug 05, 2021 1:15 am
Forum: The Observation Lounge/ Cookbook Forum even Hot Topics
Topic: Rotator cuff tear/surgery? Update
Replies: 22
Views: 6035

Re: Rotator cuff ear/surgery?

Continued healing for you, Paula. It is hard to work through this but I hope you're feeling hopeful now.
by piedmontfields
Wed Aug 04, 2021 11:43 pm
Forum: Veterinary, Nutrition, Grooming & Farrier Questions
Topic: Rehabbing the mild stifle strain
Replies: 54
Views: 8465

Re: Rehabbing the mild stifle strain

Ditto what Ponichiwa describes. Some backing plus even mild hills at walk makes a huge difference for many horses.
by piedmontfields
Wed Aug 04, 2021 11:24 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress
Replies: 209
Views: 57887

Re: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress

First, a few cheers and remarks: Ms, I hope you saw that virtual test as good encouragement for your work! I know the pandemic has thrown many wrenches in plans...Cora looks lovely and *fun*. Happy for you A.! Glad Maia's knee is less puffy and fingers crossed. I'm delighted to hear that Moutaineer ...
by piedmontfields
Tue Aug 03, 2021 1:52 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress
Replies: 209
Views: 57887

Re: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress

We cantered on the grass for a few minutes last night. That makes us both happy!
by piedmontfields
Mon Aug 02, 2021 2:18 am
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress
Replies: 209
Views: 57887

Re: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress

Many congratulations, Blob, to you and Ms. M! Your perspective on wanting to develop more is just part of the training journey. Fingers crossed for others and maybe me too. Emi clearly backed her eye dealing with some terror (some swelling around eye, but eye is good). We'll see what tomorrow brings...
by piedmontfields
Wed Jul 28, 2021 1:22 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress
Replies: 209
Views: 57887

Re: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress

It is now a seriously sweaty week. E TN has finally joined the nation in the heat dome. I did an easy walking hack yesterday and realized at the end it was more than appropriate. Emi is fine, but we will take it very easy until we get back to the low 90s F.
by piedmontfields
Sun Jul 25, 2021 11:24 pm
Forum: The Observation Lounge/ Cookbook Forum even Hot Topics
Topic: IRS property auctions--any experience?
Replies: 2
Views: 1336

Re: IRS property auctions--any experience?

I know nothing about IRS auctions. I will note that many other auctions are now online, so it is more like "eBay" bidding where one sets a max price/increments for re-bids. Don't know if that is the case here.

Good luck!
by piedmontfields
Sun Jul 25, 2021 11:23 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress
Replies: 209
Views: 57887

Re: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress

Also, high heat here in the E TN valley is ~90 with highs in the mid-90s F this week. But I was able to go a few thousand feet up and go trout fishing this weekend in much more mild temps. Thinking of you all dealing with extreme heat, fire, drought. Even here the smoke from NW US fires has been pla...
by piedmontfields
Sun Jul 25, 2021 11:21 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress
Replies: 209
Views: 57887

Re: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress

Interesting notes! I was think again today (probably for the 200-th+ time) how grateful I am that Emi sweats well. I don't work her hard in high heat, but she sweats and is comfortable. We did an easy week after she seemed a bit muscle sore after increased work with canter, will do chiro tomorrow, a...
by piedmontfields
Mon Jul 19, 2021 1:12 pm
Forum: Veterinary, Nutrition, Grooming & Farrier Questions
Topic: Joint Maintenance?
Replies: 18
Views: 4640

Re: Joint Maintenance?

Chancellor wrote:For me, with Mocha, he was on Adequan which did nothing. When I switched to Pentosan, it made a WORLD of difference.


Yes, it can be an amazing difference when it works. And for some horses it is the opposite. It's good having a few options!
by piedmontfields
Sun Jul 18, 2021 12:41 am
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress
Replies: 209
Views: 57887

Re: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress

Exvet, that's an interesting update. Indeed. working on one's own and managing one's own is a special pleasure and reward--although also a lot of work. Sue, thanks for the transition thoughts. "Somehow" this problem has gone away and we are much more normal now....although normal is more l...
by piedmontfields
Thu Jul 15, 2021 1:24 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress
Replies: 209
Views: 57887

Re: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress

This instructor said he needs to be quicker in the hindlegs and push more straight and under his body to catch me in the sitting trot. She said he doesn't really drop his back, but the movement of his back is very 'uuup/doown uuup/down'. So, with quicker and more active hindlegs, the sitting trot i...
by piedmontfields
Tue Jul 13, 2021 5:48 pm
Forum: The Observation Lounge/ Cookbook Forum even Hot Topics
Topic: Vent
Replies: 11
Views: 3199

Re: Vent

My barn provides exceptional care and is very helpful to attentive owners, too, like me who might need someone to do some meds or wraps occasionally. They haven't had many situations like you describe, but in the less active owner categories, they charge for every bit of extra care and meds and arra...
by piedmontfields
Tue Jul 13, 2021 12:24 pm
Forum: Veterinary, Nutrition, Grooming & Farrier Questions
Topic: Joint Maintenance?
Replies: 18
Views: 4640

Re: Joint Maintenance?

Sounds like a plan, Susan. On a semi-related note, I'll mention since we have similar-aged mares, it can be worth thinking about adding more routine blood panels (ex. annually/bi-annually) to keep tabs on changing metabolic or other conditions.
by piedmontfields
Mon Jul 12, 2021 12:20 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress
Replies: 209
Views: 57887

Re: Sweat equity: July-August goals and progress

Even though I've been pretty quiet rehabbing these last 7 months, I want you all to know how excited I am for the progress on this board and also how I appreciate your perspectives as you learn new horses or adjust to new challenges. Emi got a very good check-up ultrasound this past week, so our cha...
by piedmontfields
Fri Jul 09, 2021 11:24 pm
Forum: Veterinary, Nutrition, Grooming & Farrier Questions
Topic: Joint Maintenance?
Replies: 18
Views: 4640

Re: Joint Maintenance?

At this point, I use Pentosan + MSM, glucosamine and chondroitin. There was a period where resveratrol (ex. Equithrive) helped quite a bit. For an older horse, I'd especially go to injections. I used orals for years as basic help before Emi's late teens. It made her less creaky, easier to warm up. I...
by piedmontfields
Thu Jun 24, 2021 12:01 pm
Forum: The Observation Lounge/ Cookbook Forum even Hot Topics
Topic: Guest bedroom bed advice
Replies: 6
Views: 2575

Re: Guest bedroom bed advice

I know in Europe it is common to push twin beds together to call it something better, but here it is terrible. Try to fit a full and a twin with a trundle if you must.
by piedmontfields
Tue Jun 15, 2021 12:46 am
Forum: The Observation Lounge/ Cookbook Forum even Hot Topics
Topic: Bobcat on my trailcam (video!)
Replies: 242
Views: 127113

Re: Bobcat on my trailcam (video!)

I loved your recent update! Seeing a badger is completely amazing.

I wish we had a water source on our property---I think our sitings would be much enhanced.
by piedmontfields
Fri Jun 11, 2021 1:17 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: May-June: Don't be afraid to set some goals and make it better
Replies: 279
Views: 44539

Re: May-June: Don't be afraid to set some goals and make it better

In normal times (when I can lunge), my mare will have occasional bucking fits on the lunge line. It's usually when I am lungeing for quick exercise, not to "get the bucks out." Usually, these are occasions where it has been damp, cool and she had less exercise than normal due to weather or...
by piedmontfields
Mon Jun 07, 2021 4:39 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: May-June: Don't be afraid to set some goals and make it better
Replies: 279
Views: 44539

Re: May-June: Don't be afraid to set some goals and make it better

I"m lovely the updates and photos. Thanks all.

Our humble achievement is 20 rides in May. Lots of hacking, but also a bit more trot work. Occasional accidental canter, but we're still building strength for that! FIngers crossed for our next 30 days of rehab work.
by piedmontfields
Thu Jun 03, 2021 11:20 pm
Forum: Tack, Apparel, Facilities and Transportation
Topic: Saddle fitting the young horse
Replies: 14
Views: 4148

Re: Saddle fitting the young horse

Shopping for a used Prestige in his size and yours seems obvious and reasonable for a young horse. Will your fitter re-flock if needed? I think it's pretty pointless to get a very expensive new saddle on young horses, unless you like supporting saddle businesses! FYI, Albion SLKs to my memory fit ma...
by piedmontfields
Fri May 28, 2021 12:56 am
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: May-June: Don't be afraid to set some goals and make it better
Replies: 279
Views: 44539

Re: May-June: Don't be afraid to set some goals and make it better

That's a great ride report, Susan. For my tight little mare, canter makes everything better about response and connection :-) Alas, canter is still not on the table for us in rehab (though she suggests it regularly, which gives me hope).
by piedmontfields
Wed May 26, 2021 8:28 pm
Forum: Veterinary, Nutrition, Grooming & Farrier Questions
Topic: What do your horses eat?
Replies: 15
Views: 4297

Re: What do your horses eat?

My mare has PSSM (moderate, managed) but is not IR. She gets about 8 hours of grazing time a day, with variable grass, plus orchard grass mix hay in the field and in her stall. It's an easy 14-20 lbs per day of hay, depending on time of year. She is a chunky-looking type, but can actually get much t...
by piedmontfields
Wed May 26, 2021 7:43 pm
Forum: The Observation Lounge/ Cookbook Forum even Hot Topics
Topic: Caring for the aging parent
Replies: 30
Views: 7370

Re: Caring for the aging parent

khall and all who have been through or all handling this: It is brutal. I really have compassion for you. I'm not sure if it's easier/worse if you come from a loving, mentally-healthy family and then have to deal with dementia vs. coming from a "normal messed up" family and then adding dem...
by piedmontfields
Mon May 24, 2021 4:28 pm
Forum: Senior Horses/Senior Riders
Topic: Energy levels as you age
Replies: 17
Views: 5607

Re: Energy levels as you age

I agree with texsuze---lots of important perspective in Demi's comments. And like suz, I've had some incredible breakthroughs working slowly and at the walk.
by piedmontfields
Mon May 24, 2021 3:33 pm
Forum: The Observation Lounge/ Cookbook Forum even Hot Topics
Topic: My barn’s new website
Replies: 13
Views: 4137

Re: My barn’s new website

Clean, safe, hot water and a flush toilet = happiness!
by piedmontfields
Mon May 24, 2021 3:32 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: May-June: Don't be afraid to set some goals and make it better
Replies: 279
Views: 44539

Re: May-June: Don't be afraid to set some goals and make it better

Ranch Horse classes are no joke! I mean, I'd love to take a lot of those horses home. Lots of very solid training required, plus the mind to put up with the long day/different actiities. Sounds like Queso was worthy of a tiara for sure! You are so good at training your horses and I know you know tha...
by piedmontfields
Mon May 24, 2021 1:41 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: May-June: Don't be afraid to set some goals and make it better
Replies: 279
Views: 44539

Re: May-June: Don't be afraid to set some goals and make it better

So many interesting updates! Great photo of Annabelle! I also love Chiasamba's photos from a bit ago (and you look super fit, Chiasamba!). I am not an expert. I do ride a very light to connect/easy to be fake round horse, though. After a dental incident, I needed to ride her in a bitless bridle for ...
by piedmontfields
Wed May 19, 2021 8:12 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Tesla's stops and spin outs
Replies: 113
Views: 21182

Re: Tesla's stops and spin outs

Someone told me a few years ago that training a WB is like riding a cross between a dinosaur and a giraffe, and you just have to be willing to go out and do the same thing every day. You might not think anything is happening, but it is. That's a pretty smart comment! I like your recent videos and h...
by piedmontfields
Wed May 19, 2021 8:07 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: May-June: Don't be afraid to set some goals and make it better
Replies: 279
Views: 44539

Re: May-June: Don't be afraid to set some goals and make it better

Mari, that's a great update! I hope your lesson shows off your finding. I do think some horses need the lighter seat for the FC.... I am just happy to be doing the simplest of things, like 15-20 minutes of large figure trotting + transitions. Emi is looking more like a 1st level horse these days (ab...
by piedmontfields
Tue May 18, 2021 8:04 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Basic Yielding to the Leg
Replies: 38
Views: 6942

Basic Yielding to the Leg

The thread on Tesla made me think about this basic exercise. I tend to do it on learning horses or any horse that is not responding to my aids with an adequate "step under my weight" response. Instead of a strict square, you can do a rounded square and just ask for 1-2 steps of step under....
by piedmontfields
Sun May 16, 2021 11:37 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Bits and spurs
Replies: 51
Views: 10297

Re: Bits and spurs

Very interesting update khall! I have seen a number of horses transformed in their happiness with the tactic---but you are describing in a much more rich and subtle way. For those with delicate flowers like mine that like a non-jointed bit with tongue relief---I've noticed it is less "subtle&qu...
by piedmontfields
Wed May 12, 2021 12:44 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Your speciality, tell us how you do it
Replies: 20
Views: 4940

Re: Your speciality, tell us how you do it

I keep turning up, meaning I just keep having a go. I'm not good at anything in particular, but I seem to not give up (yet)! Flight I think you have even more talents, but this is a big one---and probably the best that I, too, have to offer horses. I'm consistent, I'm willing to work incrementally ...
by piedmontfields
Mon May 10, 2021 12:03 pm
Forum: The Observation Lounge/ Cookbook Forum even Hot Topics
Topic: My barn’s new website
Replies: 13
Views: 4137

Re: My barn’s new website

It looks great! Is that an exercise track, too? That would be so awesome to have access to a track.

In the spirit of reciprocity, here is where I board: http://www.dryridgefarm.com . The best parts to me (large fields to hack around, xc course, wooded trails) are not even shown.
by piedmontfields
Sat May 08, 2021 12:26 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: May-June: Don't be afraid to set some goals and make it better
Replies: 279
Views: 44539

Re: May-June: Don't be afraid to set some goals and make it better

Exvet, it is interesting the impact of bit types! Good luck with your show adventure. It will be good learning, one way or another. I appreciate everyone's on-going updates. Ours is pretty simple: 5 months post a front suspensory injury, we are continuing to gradually increase work. I've really take...
by piedmontfields
Mon Apr 26, 2021 6:41 pm
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Bits and spurs
Replies: 51
Views: 10297

Re: Bits and spurs

I use a Bomberz happy tongue loose ring on Emi: https://www.equiport.co.uk/blog/article/bombers-bit-happy-tongue-loose-ring-snaffle--whats-the-buzz-about/ Not legal everywhere, but she is so much more connected with this than a jointed bit probably due to tongue/mouth shape. I wear spurs very rarely.
by piedmontfields
Sat Apr 17, 2021 12:05 am
Forum: Dressage Training
Topic: Tesla's stops and spin outs
Replies: 113
Views: 21182

Re: Tesla's stops and spin outs

I just want to say that I find SF's openness and sharing of process and progress really helpful. Horses are very individual, even as we use core principles to help them develop and learn. I do appreciate the helpful thoughts, photos and reflections. I am pretty sobered by the WB comments though---no...

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