Horses mature skeletally slower than most equestrians or vets commonly believe.

If you're unfamiliar with the article, I cannot recommend enough that you read it cover to cover to better understand the true rate of skeletal maturation in the horse. Also why it is a bad idea to start 2 year olds under saddle.

For those who are already familiar, this is an updated version of the old, original article. You could also print out a few copies to have on hand to share with other equestrians who question why you haven't “just started” your horse already.

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Source: Equine Studies Institute

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I've been riding since I was 9, and in love with horses from the day I was born. Living in Washington with my horse and 5 dogs.

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  1. I first heard of this woman through the George Morris Young Riders videos last January. So nice to see this viewpoint given out at this venue.

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    1. I’ve been appreciative of her original article since I first read it in 2001. Of course even happier to see her revise it into a more orderly format too than the original. 🙂

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  2. I’m a Friesian breeder and I use as a rule Dr. Bennett’s advice. I want the very best for my horses long term health. Having raised my breeding mare from a baby I was never in a rush to back her. It took patience, but I enjoyed raising her with plenty of ground work. It was as rewarding as riding and today many years later, she is sound and healthy. By allowing her to mature both physically and mentally prior to starting under saddle, I have a well rounded horse.

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