“But last year you…”

It’s always interesting to me how other people hold you to your past opinion. For example, last year I competed my pony without leg protection. This year, unless I’m just taking Rita out to groom her, she is wearing tendon boots or polos all around. And without fail, several people ask me “why are you booting her up? You didn’t last year.” Last year—short of Harrisburg—her legs remained unclipped year round. Now, I cringe when I see unclipped legs. Why? What made me change the way I took care of my pony? Experience.

You see, before becoming a working student, I had never been around a real show barn. If not the only boarder at a barn, I was the only competitive rider on the property. So my way became the only way. Now, after almost a year of caring for dozens of horses that are each worth more than my house, my opinion on horse care has shifted. Yes, I still firmly believe any horse can comfortably go barefoot given the proper diet, environment, and trim. Yes, I still leave the whiskers unclipped and believe in 24/7 turnout, year round. But now I also wrap legs after jumping, boot up for any type of work, clip lower legs any chance i get, and keep the mane neat.

After taking care of so many horses, you learn a few things. Your opinion is bound to change.