M saddled and bridled him and we went in the round pen. M showed me some things on a long lead to practice with him such as moving out of my space, backing, etc. I was directed to be clear and ask once, if he doesn't respond then he gets corrected. The first time I corrected him he kicked at me. Then he reared. I was glad he did so M could see the behaviors I was dealing with at home. He respects M so he doesn't behave this way with him. I spent more time working with him and eventually he was responding to me first time I asked. M then had me lay L down. We did this once before at the beginning of our breaking. Again it was gentle and done safely. I rubbed on him and talked to him and just like the first time he was calm and unconcerned. I asked him to get up and we let him be done for the day. I was thrilled with how everything went and thought for sure I had a reformed baby.
Saturday morning as I led Baby L in from his paddock he reared again and ripped the lead rope from my grip. He tore around like an idiot and refused to be caught, kicking at me if I came close. I had to open the gate to the barn and let him run to his stall. Even in his stall he would turn his butt to me. I eventually got a hold of the lead rope and I led him to my small sand paddock. I worked with him as M showed me in the round pen. After getting my point across with him that rearing and kicking would not be tolerated, he promptly moved in whichever direction I asked including backing. I patted him and took him to his stall. I then took his breakfast away and let him cool under the fan in his stall for about an hour. When I checked back he was cool and calm so I gave him his breakfast.
I then made a trip to Tractor Supply as I figured they would have the same long thick cotton lead rope like I used at M's. I bought a 20 foot one so that should he rear again at least I have enough line that it doesn't just rip from my hands.
Sunday and Monday mornings he led in without incident. I am sure to pat him as we walk since he is being good. It's a start. My husband is not happy with Baby L and thinks I need to get rid of him ASAP. I'm not going to give up. It is not L's fault that his breeder just turned him out with the herd for 3 years of his life and didn't teach him how to be a good citizen. Handling babies is soooo important. Just like a toddler they will test limits, talk back, throw tantrums, etc and unless they are taught that these are unacceptable behaviors you soon have a 1200 lb horse that acts like an a**hole. What I don't want is a 4, 5, or 6 year old horse that acts like this so we have to fix this now.
I definitely don't think he's a lost cause. You're doing all the right things. Good luck! :)
ReplyDeleteNope based on his lack of handling this is the result. I have never not been able to make progress with a problem horse before so I don't think he will be any different.
DeleteI know this is horse focused but i wish that all parents would listen to your advice!!! Your child screaming, hitting, throwing things and themselves is something that you have to teach them is not ok! They won't grow of of it and it won't get better.. just like with our horses. Quit making excuses for your kids and horses and teach them the right way!
ReplyDeleteOk I am off my soap box- I just SO agree with you!
Bad baby. I feel like they all go through this stage where they realize they aren't in control anymore and they have a small beginning of life crisis. He'll figure it out...
ReplyDeleteSome do, some don't. But this one is way to big to not have good manners so I will continue to teach him:)
DeleteGood luck! Sounds like you have some good help and guidance here from M!
ReplyDelete