>>> What if a deaf dog pops out of the brush onto the track during pace?
I think if something really spooks a horse, all sorts of odd things can happen - no matter what the gait, even at a walk. I think it's a stretch to single out pace as needing more "protection" than any other gait during a spook. Sorry, I'm not buying it. Besides, who said there was anything wrong with using some sort of protective boots on the trail - IF the horse really needs them and they genuinely are for protection? We've been talking about shows, training practices and evaluations. It's really odd though, isn't it? I see a lot more pictures of Icelandic's wearing "protective" boots during shows and evaluations than on the trail.... Why is it that horses would need more "protection" on a flat track than on rough terrain...? Karen Thomas, NC [EMAIL PROTECTED]
