Being Present

Hi!

This week we will see the second half of how we continue the process of developing the yearling’s confidence, while introducing them to the girth. We will be applying this process to all 7 yearlings.  That way, later on when we introduce them to the saddle, they will already be familiar with the girth, so that aspect will not be new for them. 

We have worked to strengthen their confidence with the pad, and it’s various pieces, by doing repetitions of approach and retreat; adding slight pressure to create contact with the girth, and then releasing.

In this first video, we demonstrate with Herencia and show the entire process.  Like last week, we position the pad and then apply light pressure on the girth.  The next step is that we ask her to walk with the pad on.  This is the only new step added to last week’s process.

As you can see, Herencia is not afraid of the pad and she accepts it without any issues.  After this, Alex invites her to walk and she has no negative reactions to the sensation of the girth. This shows us that everything is going well!

Now we will watch Hawaiana in a different setting, the paddock.  I have to apologize for the quality of the video; it was difficult to film with the yearlings loose around us, but this is a problem that I love!  It means that the yearlings trust us and desire our company.

The purpose of this video is to show you the final part of this process.  We put the pad on Hawaiana in the paddock and then leave it on her for a while, but always under close supervision for several reasons:

* This is the first time she will wear it for a longer period of time

* The leather girth straps could be destroyed if either herself, or her paddock mates, decide to chew on them!

* Remember that the girth is not very tight so there is a risk that the pad could move and frighten the yearling.

* To avoid accidents

When we turn her loose, we can invite her to move more freely in order to watch her reaction.  We can now ask for her to trot or canter, so that she can experience how the pressure of the girth changes within the different gaits, and start to become accustomed to it. 

This is the procedure we will apply to all the yearlings.  We will continue to do these exercises once or twice a week for maintenance.

Everything can be done calmly, without violence, and while developing a language with our horses.  And remember what Pat says, “Take the time it takes, so it takes less time.”

Thank you for following my blog and we will see you soon with a new learning adventure with the yearlings!

Ale.