Recent content by Melinda Dean

Mistysmon, I just realized that Paula and I never mentioned a great resource for learning to drive that mini folks do not usually think of. She and I met at a NC Working Mule and Draft event. Va probably also has a working Draft Association. They hold "plow days" where people get together...

Please allow me to comment on my friend, Paula's post. I thought "down and dirty" was putting a harness on a unbroke horse, hooking up to something like a drag, while standing in a dirt field. Saying a prayer, telling the horse to move out by any means to get him going, then trying to hold on...

Paula, Thanks for sharing your pictures. You met my non horsey husband at the ECMHC get together. He has never said this, but I think he wonders why I have taken sooo long training my pair. Just showed him your pictures. Now, he gets it! I work completely alone, not by choice, and because of...

This is how Chester learned his verb al cues. A nice older mini showed him.

Chester and Buck waiting to do driving.

Chester pretending to long line at 6 months.

Misty's Mom, I am not a trainer, nor do I show my driving minis, but I will be glad to share my experience of teaching them myself and how much fun they are to trail drive. First, it is hard to teach something you do not already now how to do. I see from your info that you are a retired...

This is a great idea. Beaufort, NC , on the coast between Atlantic Beach and Cape Lookout Lighthouse on a map. Mostly recreational driving. Have 3 driving geldings, 2 EZ carts, and a 4 wheel surrey. Buck is great for beginners. I have some lovely but short trails all around me. Love...

Congratulations Paula!!!

Thanks for catching me up! I have thought about asking Spot if he , or one of his team drivers, would be interested in an all expenses paid day trip to the coast, with an hour or two of lesson time helping me get everything just right for my mini draft pair and surrey. Do you think they will...

Hi Paula, Have you been to any NC plow or drive events lately? I still hope to be able to get to another one sometime. Are they still having drives at Rouses's? I have been doing some single trail driving here at my place. Hope to hitch the mini pair up when the weather is warmer again...

Oh, I agree! My nickname for my place is "Serenity Barn". While I feel happiest there with my horses, I have learned lots from them over the years. Best lesson..... (Sorry if this is too long but it is about being boss mare) I had a 13 hand Welsh X driving pony that came to me with...

Having fun should be what it is all about. Positive communication with my geldings keeps away frustration for all of us. I guess this would be my definition of leadership, equine or human.

Bucky was actually already trained for driving, in hand trail, showmanship, plus doing tricks when we went to the K-9 class. I did not have a dog at the time and needed to be sure he was okay with them if we did "Animal Assisted Activities" with a group of therapy dogs. My friend is the...

Works for me I believe in keeping them busy and learning. Here is a photo of Bucky doing K-9 classes one winter. The instructor loved his "stay" and "recall".