No Mountains But Moist

Without a doubt riding in hilly terrain places additional work on a horse, but riding in mud also creates much higher work loads than riding on firm ground. Our Corollas, Shacklefords and Chicoteague crosses are very sure footed in muck and water. Where we ride, a horse that will not cross water will be out for a very short ride. Most of my pastures have large water holes that the horses use to cool off in hot weather. Foals learn from their mothers that water is not an enemy

As part of their saddle training I have begun ponying saddled colts through heavy water while riding a horse that they respect and with whom they have a particular bond . It is safe , simple and effective. One of our training priciples is to quickly show the horse that the scary object cannot inflict pain. I do not let a horse go through hours of terror of water waiting for it to "want" to enter the water on its own.

The riders require a bit of training. They learn that they let a horse stand still and paw the water at their own peril. Most of the horses will paw about twice before they decide to lay down and wallow in the water, saddle, rider and all.

Never had anyone get hurt when that happens but swamp water has a special aroma all its own.