My interesting evening

[a1mamacat]

Big J has been working on a farm, with a horse that was surrendered by her owner who could no longer keep her. She is 18, and having a very hard time adjusting to the new home.

He can now get her halter on, coat off, and combs and brushes her with ease. The owner had him lead her down to a work ring, and they spent 1/2 hour on silent communication, with Big J getting her to follow his lead. He had to get her to go in a circle around him, without pulling or speaking to her.

It was fascinating to watch him bond with this horse. They have both been through trauma, and seem to connect very well. He would get her attention, then hold out his arm in the direction he wanted her to go. Then he raised his other arm, pointing at her, and sure enough, she began to circle as he requested.

Then, they began to learn a new skill, backing up with just a signal. He had to get her attention, make the signal, and then waggle her lead. When she made a move backwards, he praised her and petted her. They did it twice, and that was enough for her for the day, as it was new and she was getting frustrated.

The whole philosphy of this place it to work with understanding and sympathy. There is no "breaking" of horses, rather a communion to create an accord with the trainer.

His self confidence has soared. At one point she got spooked by a barking dog, and began to bolt. He followed her, talking softly, and she stopped and waited for him. He simply picked up her rope, and calmly walked her back to her stall, patting her shoulder and talking quietly to her. He then put her blanket back on, got her fodder, and finished out his afternoon.

I am so impressed with this facility. It is privately run, and depends on donations and fees from some youth programs. Worth every frickin' penny, from what I saw today.

[silvercamaro]

This is wonderful, Saucy. Everything J learns from that horse (and he probably is learning more than the horse is) will be knowledge that will work in his future both with other animals and people. He will become a wiser, more confident man for having this experience.

[kayrharris]

We have a place here called Storybook Farms. They do similar work with kids.
All the animals are named after storybook characters. It's a really neat place and the parents
can't say enough good stuff about it.

I'm glad Big J is getting this opportunity.

[PlacentiaSoccerMom]

What a neat opportunity for Big J.

Are you going to be adopting a horse?

[peacock2121]

Awesome opportunity you have found for J.