Thursday, August 29, 2013

Dry Spell

Sorry for the lack of updates.  Between work and getting everything ready for Back To School next week, I have only ridden once and that was two Sundays ago.  We had a good ride and even finished up with a little bareback walk around the arena.  I may have even blogged about it, but I'm too lazy to go look.

Tessa went on a trail ride with one of her young riders this weekend.  She did WTC out on the trails and was totally controllable.  She crossed bridges.  She was a superstar.

I still haven't connected with my trainers about what their 'plan' is with Tessa.  I did send them an email outlining my biggest concerns.

1.  I want a horse that does not kick out or buck when asked for forward.  I don't care if it's because I'm gripping.  I want to work on my gripping on a horse that doesn't buck or kick out.  There are lots of them out there.  If my horse can be trained out of this behavior by the end of the year, I will commit to that.  But she needs to not kick out or buck when I'm on her.

2.  I want a horse that I can (insert activity here).  I want to be able to but front and hind boots on without worrying I'm going to get a foot in the face.  I want to wash her whole body without it being an exercise in patience and keeping my horse from trying to spin around in the cross ties.  I want to wash her in both wash racks.  Or outside.  Or in the aisle.  I want to ride down the driveway.  And out the side door.  And ride bareback.  Again, if my trainers feel this can be trained by the end of the year I am game to try it.  A combination of me riding different horses and them training Tessa would be fine.

I have owned Tessa for 2 1/2 years.  I will be okay committing another few months to her.  But I want to make sure my trainers take a HARD look at what Tessa needs and what I need and want.

I will let you guys know when I have *actual* news, hopefully later this week or early next week.  I'll be glad for back to school because it usually equals more barn time.

3 comments:

  1. Very encouraging to hear Tessa did so well on her trail ride with the young rider! Hoping your trainers are open to helping you reach your goals with Tessa should you decide to keep her.

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  2. I hear you loud and clear. I agree with all of your wants. I look forward to hearing how it goes!
    Afterthought:
    I'm sure if Tessa is kicking out or bucking, she must be saying that it isn't any fun for her, either. I'm sure she has a similar list of wants. You're right. It isn't fair for both of you to be miserable. Good luck! We're rooting for you both!

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  3. I'm glad you aren't rushing into any decisions. I found this blog and thought you might like some of the tools she talks about. :)

    http://effectivehorsemanship.wordpress.com/

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