Question:
How do you get a horse over water that has been on trails before and had to go through creeks but always jumps them?

Answer from clinician and trainer, Frank Bell:
Horses that are used to jumping small creeks can be quite dangerous as they sometimes leave the rider hanging in the air as they suddenly lunge forward. This is more about fear than anything else. It's all about slowing down and teaching the horse to put only one foot forward, then back; then two feet forward, then back. Take this type of horse to a place where the bank is very gradual and there is good visibility so she can see into the water. Ask her to just get her toes wet at the edge, then back her off. Then get in a little deeper each time. Riding her in circles that get progressively closer to, then into the water is a great exercise. Another good one is to give her a bath on a hot day in a low spot so the water collects below her. Before long she's standing in the water. The teach her to drive and lead through that puddle. Then ride her through it. The back to the creek, do just the same. Whatever you do, don't ride with people that cross the creek and leave you there. Work with empathetic riders only!!

Thanks for your question and best of luck,

Frank Bell (Click here to see more questions and answers on Frank Bell's web site)