30/07/2026
I love this… over 2,000 years ago… this was the sentiment of a military leader and philosopher. Different times indeed, but a sentiment that is shared by all horse nuts still today. Reiner Klimke said “Finish the ride while you and your horse are still friends”. While it is easy to get caught up with trying to accomplish one more “something”… a flying change, a shoulder in, a square halt, a medium trot, a smooth trot-canter transition, etc… the horse needs a break and acknowledgment of their effort. Physically and mentally, the horse needs time to process and to register any small success in the work. Not just a break but some kind of a reward… a stroke, a kind word, a treat. I often say to my students “Why the hell would a horse want to do dressage?”. I feel it is so important to make the work fair and to reward often.
My name is Tina Steward. I am an Equine Veterinarian, Equine Chiropractor and FEI level coach. If you are looking for coaching that is fair to the horse, classical and a wee bit of humor, I am offering Virtual Dressage Lessons. If this interests you, I invite you to contact me through my website ( tinastewarddvm.com ) or FB message me.
The drawing below is by Charlie Mackesy
