The equine love of my life, Doc, has been mine since he was 4 months old. My wonderful husband bought him for me as a wedding present! At least he knew what he was getting himself into :) Doc, so named because while he was purchased by my husband while in the process of becoming a veterinarian, was a little scruffy....But Mike saw something in his eye and he knew he would be a keeper. The fuzzy colt couldn't even lead and so Mike basically 'football shoved' him onto the trailer and away we went...with big dreams in our hearts. Doc's younger years were spent learning all the basics...leading, tying, trailering, clipping, bathing...ect. For the most part, he accepted each of these new tasks with a level head and a curious attitude. When it came time to start him under tack I was ecstatic...finally I could ride my pony, but this is where the real work began. basic flat work went well....stop, start, steer. Lots of Trial rides helped keep things interesting and before long we were cantering through the fields and turning when I wanted to!! Thanks to some fantastic friends, we utilized arena work to help Doc travel straight, decipher a 20m circle and turn a half-way decent corner. Upon Mike's graduation from veterinary school, we relocated to Kentucky (twist my arm, right?!) and I was introduced to a incredible trainer. NOW I was going to be able to really get things started with little Doc-a-roo!! By this time he was a fresh young 4 year old and barely able to pick up the correct lead at the canter. I have been with my trainer consistently since then and we have both worked with Doc to help him progess into the fantastic young man that he is now. And the best part?? he is only SIX....I am so happy with how far we have come together, and can't wait to find what is out there in our future. Currently we are competing at the Novice level and loving every minute of it! The challenges we face encourage me to be a better rider, they drive me to get out there and practice! 
Honestly, If I told you about every detail of our training so far, you would be asleep in a heartbeat....but don't worry, there is lots that we are working on and lots and lots to talk about. Having been in a "relationship" with Doc for the past 6 years, we know each other pretty well. I understand his personality and can usually translate what he is trying to tell me. "Hey mom, how about those carrots you had earlier..." I am also able to predict his reactions to various situations, running and barking dogs don't bother him one bit...but a flapping ariat boot sign on the rail of the stadium ring? THAT is a problem...LOL!
My most recent "relationship" is only about a month old. Ferris came into my life is a simmilar way as Doc. Mike picked him out....said he saw something sparkle in his eye....and when I look at how much fun Doc is and how well I get along with him...who I am to questions the ways of my horse habit enabling hubby?? ;) Ferris, however, is 3 years old and much more educated. He is a gorgeous bay TB gelding we bought through New Vocations, and OTTB placement program. To say our relationship is new would be an understatement. Sure, I understand horses....I can communicate with them...I have been around them for ages, but getting to know a horse that is hopefully going to be a partner and friend is different. I am pleased that the last few weeks have allow me plenty of time to spend with Ferris....He prefers sweet feed over pellets, LOVES carrots, doesn't like his feet messed with but will become putty in your hands if you rub his belly....it is start!! and I'll take it. Under saddle work presents a whole new relationship to establish and I am pleased to say it is progressing along nicely. I am starting to learn his quirks and he is begining to understand what on earth I am asking him to do. ha ha ha. As we moved through our first month together, we are establishing the first level of basics...forward!! Now, for being an OTTB, he sure is a lug. I actually have to kick to get him up into a trot! Who would have thought....once we get up into a trot, he pricks his ears as if to say "ooooh....forward, trot, ok! cool." The next request to move forward off my leg will usually come more freely...if not, a small tap with the dressage whip reminds him of our previous conversation. Once he moves off my leg, he earns lots of verbal praise along with soft aids to say..."yep, you got it!". This button took a few rides to really establish...and I would be lying if I said it was a sure thing. But at least we have had some progess! yay.
Next up, straightness (which will lead to more accurate steering - kinda important). For this challenge I utilized the Diamond Excercises....This is the BEST! Check out a previous blog entry of mine that explains this concept, you won't be sorry...I'm tellin' you guys, it is great!
http://www.thedirectrein.blogspot.com/2012/09/diamonds-really-are-girls-best-friend.html
We started with this at the walk and have progessed into the trot as well! so much to think about....outside leg, holding outside rein, low hands, following shoulder, opening inside rein...don't hold him up around the turns, balance with the inside leg....PHEW! But wow...what a result!!
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| This photo was taken just a week ago, we were really starting to establish the diamond concept. Ferris was still learning to bring his shoulders around the turns and stay straight along the sides. He was going forward and staying between my leg, I was thrilled!! Good Boy :) |
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| This photo was taken today!! We have now had the chance to establish the diamond and play around with the details...put all the pieces together! Keep straight in the shoulder and retain control of the hind feet as well...can't forget the importance of impulsion with that inside hind :) Once Ferris was using his body correctly coming round and streching was accomplished! Yes, I did a little dance after our ride today :) |
