37. HP Update - Walking and desensitizing Goldie - - - - Today I took Goldie out to work with him so he can be ridden. For those of you who don't know, last time I worked with Goldie he got loose and sprinted all around the barn, spooking and bucking everywhere. I got him out of his stall and put his halter on him. He was a good boy and lowered his head for me to put on the halter. I brought him to the outdoor arena and walked laps with him, and just got used to his footing. He didn't trip too often, but sometimes would startle. Every time he started or tried to pull on the lead rope, I'd top him and back him up a couple steps. Then I would carry on. We walked a bunch of laps. After he was nice and warmed up from his laps, I brought out the poles. This was to see how he handles objects in the way and to make sure that he wouldn't overstep or trip. He was hesitant to move forward, but eventually did. He was fine the first two poles, but at the third his hoof touched the pole and he freaked out. I quickly got him to calm down and brought him to the other end. We repeated this process several times until he got the hang of it and managed to only flinch when he touched a pole. After I put the poles away, I brought out his tack. He's fine with the bridle, but doesn't like the saddle pad and saddle. I rubbed the saddle pad against his sides, and he surprisingly didn't freak out, although he did start to move forward. I put on his bridle and saddle pad, and he stood still. I then brought out the saddle. His main problem with the saddle is the weight of it on his back. I lifted it up and lightly placed it on his back, still holding it so the full weight wasn't on his back. I slowly lowered it all the way, and he startled but didn't spook. I put it on fully and at that point he didn't seem to mind, so I decided to end our lesson. (sorry I haven't posted a HP in so long, I haven't had time to and lost motivation) I do not claim full, partial, or any ownership over Goldie. - - - - Creddss! Goldie: @Gxlden-Pixie Rider: @MythtopianPegasus Tack: @ghostsonqs (I think, PLEASE tell me if I'm wrong) Bgs: @ghostsonqs + @Stxrry-Nightz- Lemme know if I missed anyone!
