Pablo and Rojo: Week 4 - Progress in Training Wild Horses
Join us as we delve into the fourth week of training for wild horses Pablo and Rojo. This week, we focus on the progress made, the challenges encountered, and the unique approaches taken to build trust and confidence in these magnificent creatures. Discover the nuances of working with these horses and the lessons learned along the way.
Progress with Rojo
The last week and a half has been quite productive, with significant progress observed in Rojo, although Pablo is advancing in smaller steps. I am exploring different methods to reach Pablo and help him gain confidence. I believe he needs more time and consistent work to feel comfortable engaging with humans. I hope to share stories of other horses in this program, including another like Pablo, with whom we are struggling to connect. Hopefully, we will find a breakthrough for both boys.
Working in the smaller training pen has accelerated progress. I began using a stick and string to desensitize Rojo, first by swinging it around him, then placing it on his back until he relaxed. Once relaxed, I rubbed and scratched him with it. Rojo accepted this easily on his left side but not as much on the right, which was my oversight for not spending equal time on both sides. Each side can be like a different horse, and neglecting one can lead to issues. After focusing on the right side for a few days, Rojo became comfortable with both sides. Moving forward, I will ensure to work both sides equally.
Challenges with Pablo
Pablo is equally uncomfortable on both sides, so I naturally approached him from both sides, avoiding issues there. We ended the week with Rojo being touched all over on both sides, his legs touched with the stick, and I can brush his back and neck without restraint. He can lunge, turn directions, and stop on command, all without a halter. Rojo's confident and unafraid personality allows us to work without a halter, and I believe once the halter is on, it will be a formality due to his progress.
For Pablo, I have taken different approaches. I bring him and Rojo into the smaller pen together, moving them around, turning them, and stopping them by backing up. Afterward, I work with Pablo alone. He is very responsive to body language, allowing me to lunge, turn, and stop him with small movements. However, he requires small movements when approached, so I am building his confidence and desensitizing him. Using the stick and string, I swing it around, smack the ground, and do whatever grabs his attention, giving him breaks when he relaxes. We are making small improvements, and I have started swinging the rope on his back, allowing him to smell it. Pablo willingly enters the small pen and tries hard, while Rojo needs convincing, knowing work awaits. These two very different horses make training sessions interesting and challenging. Additionally, my four horses have closer access to the smaller pen, adding to the distractions, which is good practice for working through them.
Goals for the Upcoming Week
The goal for the upcoming week is to get a halter on Rojo and hopefully achieve a breakthrough with Pablo.
A Fun Side Project
On a fun note, I had a side project mid-week. I was asked to pick up Mr. Billy Bob Burro, found abandoned in the desert. Despite being abandoned, he is a cute and friendly little guy, staying with us for a week as we prepare him for his permanent home. He is receiving health and hoof care to ensure he is 100% before moving on. Too cute not to share!