Answer

By Your Horse

TTeam Practitioner Claire Marr advises:

Youngsters have to learn how to balance before they can pick their feet up.
● Enlist a friend and ask them to pick your foot up the same way a farrier would – the chances are it won’t be long before you lose your balance.
● Now have them pick your foot up but instead of hanging on to it, they should let you put it down. Then have them pick up your foot, and hold it just a few inches above the ground – you should find it a lot easier to keep your balance.
● Have your friend pick your foot up while standing on the opposite side, which should also seem easier.
● Now apply these exercises to the horse. If she gets uncomfortable, stroke down the backs of her legs with your hand. Let her watch what you’re doing and reward her.
● With careful, confident, considerate handling, she will get better.