The evening session with Theo on day 4:
He was fairly easy to catch, and at first quite cooperative.
I did find in that session that he prefers me to be on his left side. When I tried working on his right it triggered his flight reflex. So I worked on just being on his right side without asking too much of him before ending the session.
Yesterday- day 5- he was much easier to catch . I haven't had to get Ted's help the last few days.
I started with his right side.
Mostly good, he did have a few moments where he wanted to leave- but he's now figuring out when he gets to the end of the rope to turn and face up instead of rearing and struggling.
I am trying to be as light as possible with him; only taking the slack out of the rope and then opening my hand quickly when he gives. This will translate to working on softness when he is worked in the bridle. He's comfortable with having his feet picked up, a little longer each time, and this morning when I caught him, it was beside his mama and from the right side.
I'm pretty happy with his progress so far. He's a big strong colt, so I will continue to work him in the little barn until he shows that I can walk up to him catch him, lead him either side, and give his hip either side. Then I can work on catching him in the bigger pen.
3 comments:
Good work, Shirley. Your consistency is admirable, and it’s clearly paying off. Handling his little kickers looks tricky, but you did it so well without anyone holding him. If he’s going to be big, it’s a good thing you’re doing all this so early. He’s making fast progress.
Fantastic work. I know that all the work I did with my Mule Sunshine after she foaled did wonders for her. She became such a well grounded equine. -- She is now 26 and still going strong.
Theo seems very smart and willing to learn!
Such fun to see how he looks at you, I am positive he is thinking! You do such nice work Shirley, someone is going to treasure this colt:)
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