Mounted search and rescue

[Pennbo <pennbo@bbv.net>]

Hi all, it's quiet for a few moments so I can catch up on emails! I try 
to mimic actual things I might encounter on a mission when I train. Thus 
the ability of my horses to stand quietly under or next to a flapping 
tarp or sunshade, blowing signs, party streamers, and trash, sudden 
squawks from radios, loud music, sudden revving of engines, trailer 
doors slamming, ATV noise (they STILL don't like that but will quietly 
stand while flicking ears), etc etc

Think of the situations you might find yourself in and mimic those 
conditions to the best of your ability. If it might include helo or 
other air traffic find a local airport. Once they are used to the noise 
and something overhead (that's a hard one for some horses) then add 
blowing, tumbling debris in your own arena. Break the issues down into 
manageable tasks. We are 'blessed' with high winds here and stuff blows 
through the arena/paddock regularly from nearby construction sites and 
just normal brush stuff.  Works great for me!! Now my horses chase it 
down to see if they can play with it! (We have to be diligent about 
getting the stuff as soon as it blows in!)

Anyway, that's my thoughts on it. Get your mounts used to what they'll 
encounter by having them encounter it in a safe trusted environment first.

Chris Pennington
Big Bear Sheriff's Posse
MSAR