Saturday August 29th, 2009
LHER Foal Training
Today was an exciting day for Wonder. He took another ride in the trailer and we went over to Century Mill Stables for foal training. Once again, he earned my applause as he loaded and unloaded on the trailer like a pro. This is especially important since I am doing it by myself. I arrived a little early and left him on the trailer for a while before unloading him so he wouldn't associate stopping with an immediate exit. After training, I did the same, loading him up and leaving him for a few minutes before taking off and driving home. Eventually, we would like to know he is comfortable hanging out on the trailer for long periods of time—both when it is and isn't in motion—to prepare him for the horse shows, seminars etc. that may be in his future. I realized, for the sake of desensitizing, it would probably be helpful for me to occasionally feed him in the trailer and go nowhere. I will try to squeeze that into the agenda before next training.
Foal training was unbelievably fun and once I got over my initial nerves, Wonder did great. There were several foals in the ring so it made for an active environment. He made me proud by walking on a loose line on either side of me, not only around the indoor, but over the poles and the flower boxes too! I'd like to think both successes are good signs that he is destined for the hunter ring. He also lifted both front feet well, but Jai (founder and trainer of Lucky Horse Equine Rescue) and I agree, Wonder and I need to buckle down and work more on picking up each hind foot. That is a little tricky at this point. Other homework assignments include trotting on lead and tying in the stall. I have also given myself two additional homework assignments. First, Wonder and I need to fine-tune his halts on line, as we have a little more go than whoa. Second, I need to establish clearer boundaries and help him understand how to respect my personal hula-hoop. I am hoping I can make more progress with each of these before next Saturday.
For those of you who have not been to foal training, I urge you to please come. The more we can develop our own skills, the more we can help the foals and horses in need. Not only is it fun to watch, but it is so beneficial to receive encouragement and pointers that will help each baby establish a solid foundation. I know Wonder and I are thankful for the opportunity and are looking forward to returning again and again.
Today, I am convinced that Wonder truly is, wonderful.
LHER Foal Training
Today was an exciting day for Wonder. He took another ride in the trailer and we went over to Century Mill Stables for foal training. Once again, he earned my applause as he loaded and unloaded on the trailer like a pro. This is especially important since I am doing it by myself. I arrived a little early and left him on the trailer for a while before unloading him so he wouldn't associate stopping with an immediate exit. After training, I did the same, loading him up and leaving him for a few minutes before taking off and driving home. Eventually, we would like to know he is comfortable hanging out on the trailer for long periods of time—both when it is and isn't in motion—to prepare him for the horse shows, seminars etc. that may be in his future. I realized, for the sake of desensitizing, it would probably be helpful for me to occasionally feed him in the trailer and go nowhere. I will try to squeeze that into the agenda before next training.
Foal training was unbelievably fun and once I got over my initial nerves, Wonder did great. There were several foals in the ring so it made for an active environment. He made me proud by walking on a loose line on either side of me, not only around the indoor, but over the poles and the flower boxes too! I'd like to think both successes are good signs that he is destined for the hunter ring. He also lifted both front feet well, but Jai (founder and trainer of Lucky Horse Equine Rescue) and I agree, Wonder and I need to buckle down and work more on picking up each hind foot. That is a little tricky at this point. Other homework assignments include trotting on lead and tying in the stall. I have also given myself two additional homework assignments. First, Wonder and I need to fine-tune his halts on line, as we have a little more go than whoa. Second, I need to establish clearer boundaries and help him understand how to respect my personal hula-hoop. I am hoping I can make more progress with each of these before next Saturday.
For those of you who have not been to foal training, I urge you to please come. The more we can develop our own skills, the more we can help the foals and horses in need. Not only is it fun to watch, but it is so beneficial to receive encouragement and pointers that will help each baby establish a solid foundation. I know Wonder and I are thankful for the opportunity and are looking forward to returning again and again.
Today, I am convinced that Wonder truly is, wonderful.
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