[LarsPrillaman]

Hopping onto this thread it would appear about a decade late… BUT!

Two things this makes me want to ask. Donn, can you clarify your preference for the vinyl pads? Or perhaps that’s changed since this thread started. I would think they don’t breathe well, but I reckon they do wick the sweat away.

The other question this made me curious about pertains to your comment about breast strap fitting. I’ve only just started driving a team, so this was great to come across. In seeing myself and the gals in pics and videos, I wondered if I have the yoke and thusly their breast straps too far out front. They SEEM to me to be approximately the same angle as the hames, but I’ll ask the experts. I can’t seem to get a photo to load. I’ll keep trying.

Thanks,
Lars Prillaman

• This reply was modified 6 years, 9 months ago by LarsPrillaman.
• This reply was modified 6 years, 9 months ago by LarsPrillaman.

[LarsPrillaman]

Thanks everyone for the input! I love this community. Simple reassurances have more than a few times gotten me feeling like I’m doing okay and to not be discouraged.

May and I have had opportunity to do a lot more work this week, and taking several people’s advice, breaks and rest were figured into the work schedule. Also some rewards for hard work and cooperation. Both were results from what I think Carl described as her willingness to cooperate because I communicated more effectively.

She has pretty much stopped the agitated prancing and “barn sour” behavior. I guess I was surprised by it when it was happening because it had been a LONG time since she’d done it and we’d just been at regular work for a good stretch. Oh well. Always a learning game. That’s part of what I love so much about this.

Next up in the Equipment Forum, Lars asks dumb questions about setting up sulky and walking plows! Stay tuned!

Thanks y’all.

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[LarsPrillaman]

Thanks Jared. I think after the logging, I was definitely more beat than her! But I think from what you’re saying that it’s likely the case that she is feeling the release. It’s what I suspected but I like seeing what other folks with more experience think. Glad to know I’m not alone and that its not so much of a “newbie” problem. Thank you for your input.

Lars

[LarsPrillaman]

Hey all. I know that this subject is addressed in some other threads but I haven’t found anything that answers my specific question.

I’m interested in using collar pads on days of heavier work. I like the idea of providing that extra cushion. Here’s my dilemma:

My horses collars fit them very well without pads. I’d still like some extra padding on occasion. I am aware that pads should be “two sizes larger than your collar size.” So that’s what I ordered. When I’ve gone to add the pads, then nothing fits the gals at all. I’m aware that this is probably caused by their necks being on the thicker side. So I guess my question is this. If I do indeed want to add a bit of cushion, should I order some extra collars that are larger than their “without pad” size and then the correlating pads? I feel like this is a “Duh, Lars. Yes, that’s what you do.” sort of question but I’m always trying to learn so I figured I’d pose the question.

I know some folks might say “If the collars fit them fine without pads then why have extra collars and pads?” I just like the option of having whatever my girls need. And you know, having more draft horse stuff!

Thank you,
Lars

[LarsPrillaman]

Thanks for all the input! I’ll be looking around for some less processed feed options. May is looking really fit. I actually cut her feed ration back, rearranged my daily schedule to allow a little more exercise time and I’m quite pleased. She is my only worker and this is our first year trying to manage the farm under nothing but draft power. So far so good, but it makes me obsessive about her conditioning and ability to do what I ask of her. Again, thanks all!

Lars
Green Gate Farm
Shepherdstown WV

[LarsPrillaman]

Thank you for the input! I got a 1ton single horse flatbed wagon and every morning May and I take the water and feed out to the livestock. That’s usually about 25-30 minutes. The middle of the day is usually occupied by smaller tasks, and sometimes she doesn’t have anything to do until the evening chores. Today we’ve been skidding tall locust poles I cut from around the farm to make new deer fencing for our market gardens.
It sounds like in terms of regular exercise (regular work) and a good diet I’m headed in the right direction. I’m just not patient with myself and maybe too worried.
Also, I should plan more Winter activities to maintain her physique it sounds like.

I thank you both for your input. This is the first time I’ve posted to the forums. I peruse them often and I’m always happy to see how helpful people are.

Be well.
-Lars

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