Myth No. 14: What about the weighted boots they wear?

Answer. They wear boots on the front hooves purely to prevent an injury should they make a mistake and overstride with a rear hoof - this is a possibility particularly at the rack when the animal can be negotiating a fairly tight showring bend at 35mph!!! The boots are not weighted; nowadays most wear simple bell boots just like a jumper.

Myth No. 15: What about tying their front legs together?

Photo: courtesy of UPHA

Answer: the first time I was asked this question it turned out that the query came from a gentleman who had seen cowboy horses hobbled out on the prairie to stop them wandering off overnight. Another time, the questioner was confused by the hopples used on Standardbred pacers. Saddlebred trainers use neither of these, however they do use a device known as 'stretchies'. These constitute well padded sheepskin covered leather straps around each pastern, to which a length of elastic rubber surgical tubing is attached by means of swivelling quick release snaps. The tubing is very easily stretched and acts in exactly the same way as a human chest expander in a gymnasium and is tailored in length to suit the individual's level of fitness and ability. The function of the 'stretchies' is to develop the muscles that lift the leg thus increasing his ability to raise his knees. A secondary function is to teach the horse rhythmic movement, and the pull-and-give keeps him concentrating on what his legs are doing and develops his sense of balance and rhythm. Again some horses like using them, some will not use them. When I say they will not use them, be reminded that they are fitted so the horse has a choice. He can trot normally without using them at all and they will not hamper or bother him; or he can pull against them and develop himself. They are only used once the horse has warmed up and are only for short durations. They can be utilised in either long-lining, driving or riding. In my experience most show Saddlebred thoroughly enjoy them. Once they are removed the improvement in the horse's balance and rhythm is magical.

Myth No. 16: Why are they shut up in dark stalls, is it to make their eyes pop when they step out into the light and give them that startled look?

Answer: I have never seen a Saddlebred kept in a darkened stall - unless he was sick. As previously explained they are taught their show ring expression of wide-eyed alertness in other ways. I think the darkened stall myth became established because when at shows the various barns have what they call 'barn aisle décor' of curtaining which is done in their particular showing colours. An aisle is usually fronted by a hospitality room for visitors and friends and is dressed by these smart curtains. This also gives the horses some peace and protection from the prying public who come around 'wanting to see a horsey'. But the aisle behind is as open and airy as can be with each horse able to talk with his neighbours. At home the barns are airy and bright and the horse's are entertained by watching each other working up and down the central aisle.

The epitome of Saddlebred beauty Phi Slama Jama Fine Harness Stallion (courtesy of Reedannland Farms, Iowa)

I hope the above article - which has been produced entirely from my own experience - helps put a few training myths into perspective. If you have any other queries or would like more information about this wonderful breed, please do not hesitate to contact me either through Joy of Horses or via the web site for Saddlebreds in Britain: www.americansaddlebreds.co.uk