I had to go into work early today. Well, early for me, I do take time to do horse stuff most every morning. I did not ride. Magic and I went a looked at the trailer. He stepped up with his front feet but did not go all the way in. I used the whip and asked him to step forward at times and he made the correct response. At first the whip would cause him to stand his ground or step back. So I was happy that he moved forward in response to the whip. (Explanation: The use of the whip does not mean thrashing or whipping but rather as an extension of the reach of the handler and a cue to do something.) My goal with this “step forward” approach is to have Magic load as a response to my request / command. When we did this today, we were several steps from the trailer. He had backed up and I asked him to step forward. He did. I was satisfied. If I had asked him to take another step, then another, I would have pushed him to a point where he might refuse. I like to avoid refusals because I think when you get to that point, the horse may “learn” the wrong thing. Magic and I have been there at the Saline County Fairgrounds. Magic and I will get to a point where, if necessary, I can apply pressure and expect him to respond like I need. Right now we are building trust and taking one step at a time.
A web log of Horses and Horse Activities