So basically I bought a new horse. His name is Duncan (it's a work in progress). He had never had a regular halter on when I bought him. He isn't used to being pet, worked... basically anything that doesn't involve standing in a paddock and eating he isn't quite sure is worth it just yet. He is adorable, sweet, smart, willing, and an all around good boy. He is however green, and I am young.
The first week or so I had my old trainer, who also works at the barn, do some ground work with him. He was scared of everything and hadn't seen an indoor before, let alone a cover-all; the scariest of them all! I was too scared to lead him anywhere but his paddock. Brushing him was about the highlight of the day. I slowly worked up confidence and now lead him around, into the arena, and even have put a surcingle, bit, and saddle pad on. He is very good for them all.
Even though he was being very good, I still felt there was a certain disconnect, which was followed by my persistency to find out how to fix it. I arrived at the barn today in a pretty pouty mood, got my horse, and started walking him around. My friend came and walked him a little bit. We showed him stuff and put him back in his paddock. So I put him back and quickly realized I forgot to leave his halter on. Silly me! So I somehow justified it would be worth my while to go back in, try to catch him, and put his halter on. So as I attempted that I ended up chasing him around trying to get him to join up with me. That didn't work, and Robyn soon showed up with helpful advice. I walked slowly over to him once I had his attention, and eventually was able to get his halter on, and he stood there! He was never so good about it! It was the most amazing thing ever!! He's so lost, and scared, and to have him let me in was incredible.
