Quote Originally Posted by finn's mom
So, in a situation like that, do you have to do much except just ride? I mean, I guess I'm just asking what you had to do to keep control over him while the coyote was there. Because I want to get one for Finn, and, hearing this story really makes me think it will be a good investment. I just was curious if you had to lean a lot or do anything yourself to keep Deuce in the right place, or if the Springer itself basically does "all the work."
Nope, usually I can just keep peddling and get the dog by whatever is distracting them. The springer absorbs most of their energy, especially if they try to go sideways, so you can usually just keep riding normally. I've gotten Kayleigh past squirrels, other dogs, grouse, ect without incident. If we'd been on a flat section this time, I probably could have done the same thing. Since we were going downhill and gaining speed, I just stopped and waited until Deuce could focus again. I woudn't have been able to stop safely if he'd been on a regular leash. He'd have made us crash for sure at the very least and I'd have probably lost him in the process!

I bypass the safety release that comes with the springer. I use a cable neckline instead, same one that hooks my leaders together on the sled team. With the dogs I take on it, I'd rather take a fall than loose them cuz the release broke. I've fallen once with it and it was fairly minor, no injury or scar inducing crashes since the springer. I also threw out the harness that came with. I use a tracking harness instead. Much easier to put on. I'd highly recommend one.