For Gaited Horses

For those riders who own or are interested in easy gaited horses, Cheryl offers all her expertise in horse wellness and horse/rider communication, and help specific to gaited horses as well:

• Advice to buyers. Cheryl can help you be sure you are buying a horse that has the conformation and inherited inclination to perform the gaits you are expecting him to do.
• Proper hoof lengths and angles are especially important for gaited horses. Less than optimal trimming and shoeing can interfere with the horse’s rhythm, stride and soundness. Cheryl can make recommendations to your farrier.
• Saddle and rider positioning. Proper saddle fit and positioning allow the gaited horse to move freely. In addition, Cheryl can teach the rider how to use their seat and legs to affect the position of the horse’s back, and thus steady the horse in the desired gait.
• “Gait setting.” Provided your horse has the conformation to allow him to do the gaits you expect, Cheryl can help your horse develop and “set” the desired gaits. Depending on the horse, it may be a matter of conditioning, training, rider posture and cue consistency, shoeing, equipment, pain issues, or a combination of these. Cheryl will help you sort it out and get you and your gaited horse into the show ring or out on the trail!