Quote for the week

Used correctly, our hands can relay flawlessly timed cues for advanced manners and offer reward to the horse for accurate responses. Used incorrectly, our hands can be like weapons to the horse's mouth, with even the least severe of bits in place.
The DOR has always been very conscious of her hands and the pressure she uses. In fact sometimes I wonder if she is holding the reins at all. She has had to learn how to balance her desire to not attack my mouth with my need for her guidance. She equates it to a dance...we need to have enough contact to know where the other is moving or thinking, but enough freedom that we don't interfere with our partners ability to execute the steps or motion.
DORs also need to remember that a look, the tone of their voice, the way their body is positioned, and the energy they project when they move also has the same kind of power as their hands. So be careful when we are dancing together that we remain in balance as a team.
Enjoy your day and don't forget to hug your DOR