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Navigating Setbacks With Horses Like a Pro
5 minute read
Life with horses can feel like you're on a rollercoaster ride with all of the ups and downs. One moment, you're patting your horse while walking out of the show ring, and the next, your progress is at a halt from an injury. This probably sounds all too familiar because we've all had to navigate setbacks with horses. That gut-wrenching feeling, when you find out your equine partner will be out for a few weeks or months is a feeling FEI Dressage Rider and Kerrits Team Rider Barbara Strawson is all too familiar with.
Recently, we sat down with Barbara and learned that over the years, she's had horses that would be on rest for seasons, so we had to ask her:
Q: How do you persevere through challenges and setbacks with horses?
I've had my fair share of unpredictability lately. Just when things seemed to be going well, things took a nosedive, first with one horse and then with another. As I found my horses in a disappointing situation, it can be easy to have the reaction of, 'That's it, I can't do this anymore.' After one night of feeling sorry for myself, I usually find acceptance and foresight on how to navigate that particular situation.
"The one thing that is predictable with horses is unpredictability. While we all need attainable and concrete goals, it is also imperative to be flexible with goal-setting and have backup plans."
Creating a Game Plan for Recovery and Progress
My first and main priority is focusing on getting whatever care and recovery that particular horse needs. I consult with whatever veterinarian or specialist is needed for the specific issue, and sometimes that takes finding a consultant who thinks outside of the box. I begin laying out the process and recovery plan for that horse, doing everything I can to ensure we will be back on track.
Finding a Silver Lining
As they say, every cloud has a silver lining. Once I know the horse is taken care of, I look at my life. Sometimes it can be a bit of a relief to have a little extra time carved out in your schedule, plus, it also works as an important reminder that as much as I love my horses and riding, there are other important things in life, too. So, maybe there is a little extra time to spend with family or friends, and if you really think about it, you will find your own examples.
Going Back to the Basics
In addition, after taking time off with your horse, bringing them back is the perfect time to brush up on the basics. The basics are so crucial to giving you a foundation to progress in horsemanship and in your riding, and they sometimes can be left behind in the journey of progress. Also, I find that if you run into setbacks with horses, they sometimes end up in even better conditions than the others when you have a chance to take a step back.
Outway Your Options
Of course, you need to consider the different outcomes available if your horse has an injury or is laid up for another reason. By the way, your recovery plan should look exactly like what is needed to do when creating a training plan.
You should ask yourself:
- 1) What if the horse can't recover?
- 2) What if he can't perform at the level he was intended?
- 3) How do I do the best for my horse?
- 4) How do I still proceed with my own riding goals? What's more important?
Depending on the answers, several emotions come about that I could be prepared for - hope, joy, despair, acceptance, disappointment, and excitement - and unfortunately, that's just life.
A friend recently told me about the belief that life is 10,000 joys and 10,000 sorrows. Sometimes it may feel like we get 19,000 sorrows and 1,000 joys, but life with sorrows allows us to really cherish the joys. This is why we have to enjoy each happy moment that we get, especially with horses. Anything can happen and you never know until you finish your 'test,' that you actually did it.
"Don't take your wins or losses very seriously, because neither last very long."
Just remember, if you are currently dealing with any setbacks with horses, this too shall pass and you can experience the journey, or 'my Journey to Excellence,' as I like to call it, and the joys of your horse during every stage.
About Barbara Strawson:
Barbara is an FEI Dressage competitor, trainer, and instructor who has brought her 20+ years of experience to training and competing horses from USDF Training level through FEI Grand Prix. Earning her USDF Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals as well as her USDF Gold and Silver Freestyle MEdals, Barbara continues to seek out and provide excellent levels of education to horse and rider. Learn more about Barbara.
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