[MSAR] Stallions in SAR

Mary Duffy mduffy2727 at juno.com
Wed Mar 17 12:27:55 EST 2004



1 & 2. Our MSAR unit also prohibits the use of stallions for training and
missions. 

3. I see the prohibition as a pro for SAR.  Although I am an experienced
stallion owner, rider, exhibitor, and my stallion is exemplary.........I
often find it is other horses (GELDINGS as well as mares:-) who behave
oddly when a stallion is around.  Even if people don't know he's a
stallion, the horses know for sure.  In my experience, well
raised/handled stallions are much better behaved than 'regular' horses. 
For example, if a mare or gelding whinnies, acts spirited, breaks loose
in camp it is never attributed to the gender of the horse........just the
environment or excitement - NEVER to bad habits that have never been
addressed.  Well mannered stallions are not allowed this type of behavior
from an early age.

I raise and train horses, and use 2 (and working on a third) mares for
SAR.  When people use being in heat, being a mare or anything for that
matter, to excuse bad behavior.....it tends to raise my blood pressure!!
I think a well mannered, quiet gelding or mare is the ideal mount for
SAR.......and although I have raised my current stallion from a foal and
he is a gentleman at all times.......he remains home when it comes to
SAR.......I don't really see it changing.  

The lack of horsemen (and women) in a SAR situation is enough reason to
leave the stud at home, in my opinion. 


Mary C. Duffy
Lucky Rooster Farm - Registered Missouri Fox Trotters
MASOOI Mounted SAR - Equine Medic
http://www.masooi.org

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