Mounted search and rescue

[Una Smith <una@lanl.gov>]

Jorene wrote:
>How many of you use / train to use your mounts in Technical Rescue?

I have done some training along these lines, but so far have not
had opportunity to train with a team, nor put the training to 
use.

Training of this type needs to start with complete despooking of
the horse re ropes.  You should be able to swing ropes anywhere,
tie them anywhere on the horse, flap them on the horse, etc., in
safety and confidence that the horse will stand for it calmly.
And train the horse to voice cues.

        Una Smith
        Santa Fe County Sheriff's Posse, in New Mexico