Mounted search and rescue

["IRVIN LICHTENSTEIN" <ilichten1@verizon.net>]

The attachment didn't make it.  There are two major considerations for
height of a mount and a minor one. One major one is whether or not you are
getting on and off in the field.  If so you need a horse you can mount from
the ground or maybe with him in a slight depression.  The other
consideration is the terrain in your area. He needs enough stride and lift
to get over the usual trail obstacles you will encounter.  If you usually
walk over 18 inch logs a shorter horse will do than if you have to walk over
36 inch logs.  Also look at trail width and overhead clearance.  Narrow
trails with cliffs and low clearances mean shorter horse. 

The minor consideration is your weight and height. Tall heavy persons (like
me) just don't look right on a short horse.  If I ever got on a pony I would
probably get arrested for abuse at 6-2 and 275 pounds.  But there are also
considerations when you ride a 17-2, 1700 pound Percheron in the woods, and
even with the trailer inside height. If you are engaged primarily in patrol
type operations where line of sight is primary in a civilized area tall is
good.  In heavily forested areas with very narrow trails or no trails short
is better and in some cases specific breeds do better in certain terrain due
to selective breeding.  For instance true Appaloosas are reputed to be
superb mountain horses and well suited for the terrain in the northwest US
where they were bred. My Percheron can be delicate but is more like having a
D9 along to break trail if necessary. His primary advantage is his large
feet and heavy legs give him great support in soft footing. 

Irv Lichtenstein  

-----Original Message-----
From: msar-riders-bounces@lists.ibiblio.org
[mailto:msar-riders-bounces@lists.ibiblio.org] On Behalf Of ALLEN SNYDER
Sent: Saturday, August 19, 2006 11:49 PM
To: Mounted search and rescue
Subject: [MSAR] Fwd: Request for opinions on the best height for a mount



Note: forwarded message attached.