Had fun this past weekend helping to judge a trail ride and obstacle competition. The next day I had the good fortune to take a clinic with a mounted police instructor. If you ever have the opportunity to do this, take it. It's so interesting to see how to desensitize your horse to unfamiliar objects which is so important in so many situations inlcuding the show ring and on the trail. These exercises are another way to help to create the trust bond between you and your horse.

Here is an example for desensitizing. I call it the "horse eater". Tape, dangling coke cans, feed bags flopping in the wind or what ever comes to mind.

Like that idea and it doesn't cost much. Got other inexpensive ideas for creating home made "obstacle"?

You are right, it does not cost much and works just great.

Other ideas? Tires or tarps - not just the usual. Check Horse Training Tutorials
for some ideas.

Have fun