Hi Richard Boatwright and all - I work with a few horses we use in therapy sessions with kids, and I'm looking for advice with one of them...a 12-15 year old Arab with we don't know what kind of foundation. Owner has him in a mechanical hackamore, says he doesn't take to a snaffle. So....

He longes ok walking and trotting both directions, saddled, with either a bridle or rope halter. But when I ride him he will do everything he can to avoid going to the right. He's hard to keep going forward, always will stop and look at my left foot. Even longeing to the right he's often  paying attention to the left. He does this with other riders, and I haven't seen this problem with other horses.

Owner thinks it's something with a weaker right shoulder, but my theory is he's afraid to trust not seeing his left side.

Anyone have similar experiences or insight? Would appreciate any thoughts on causes and exercises to help fix. Thank you!

Hi Richard Boatwright - Loved the musings in your recent newletter about embracing the suck. Sent some excerpts to our three boys (21, 19, 17). Thought it all great life advice. Thank you!

Hello Richard Boatwright - I've been working with a horse that's starting to decide she doesn't want you to hold her feet for more than a few seconds. She's 10 or so, and I think this is kind of new behavior. Do you have any videos on tips for picking up feet? Thought I've seen one in the past but now I can find it. Thanks as always!

Hi Everyone - In several videos Richard refers to principles of horsemanship like starting/ending quiet, getting the fresh off, etc. 

Can anyone point me to a video or article the explains these concepts in a bit more detail?  Thanks!