learning to drive

[hlstarmie]

I would love to learn to drive and would like to know how i can start my pony off. before i get a trained instructor in to help me what ground work could i do myself.
I have already had him in harness to see what he would be like and he didnt object to this at all. he wasnt too keen on the blinkers but he settled down after about 5 minutes.
would very much appreciate any help

[Wally]

Please for safety sake don't try to put him to the cart until you have given him chance to get used to the harness and being long reined. After he understands this het him to drag an old car tyre round. Make sure you use a quick release knot and a swingletree on the end of the traces. A friend must be on the ball to pull the quick release knot if he panics. Once he is happy with this try on the road with help. He may panic due to the grit on the road making more noise than usual. Take your time and don't forget to get him used to the breeching tightenig up round his backside. Attatch longer ropes and pull gently to get him used to this.
Join the British Driving Society in Warwick, they are a friendly lot. Have fun but don't rush him.

[bren]

If you email me privately I can link you up to a driving email list or some driving websites. I have a 10hh pony that I drive and find the list very helpful. Id like to try my standardbred someday in a cart but wouldnt want to be the first one to drive him! LOL
btw, the pony I drive only has one eye which hasnt bothered her a bit and my kids can handle her, she is a total sweetheart!

[This message has been edited by bren (edited 20 May 2000).]

[Daventry]

If you have never driven before, I would get an instructor out to help you from beginning to end. One of the most important aspects when driving is at the beginning - ground driving and initially hooking your horse up to a cart or other object. If not done properly, not only will your horse be confused and lose confidence but so will you.