To: Mounted search and rescue <msar-riders@lists.ibiblio.org>
Subject: Re: [MSAR] Working/training with air support
Date: Sat, 15 Jul 2006 07:59:10 -0700
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.