This week, we worked on Desensitizing to the Lead Rope, Yielding the HQ, & Yielding the FQ. I also introduced Flexing, Lunging Stage 1, & Sending. Aside from moving his feet at the beginning, which isn't uncommon, he's done great with flexing. It didn't take long for him to begin reaching around to touch his side without much pressure on the halter. While he had a few reactive moments where he wanted to pull away from me during the initial stages of Lunging Stage 1 (sending him around me then yielding his hindquarters to face me), once he's traveling around you, he leaves slack in the lead rope & travels round quite nicely. With Sending, I really focused on having him come forward off of the halter pressure. There's definitely some stickiness in that area (like we saw trying to step into the alleyway upon arrival). I did opt to hold off on round penning this week due to the smoke. Hopefully, it will dissipate next week. So far, he's been great to catch, meeting me at the gate most days. I also found Newt's favorite spot to be itched is right under his belly.
Overall, he's going to be a fun start!
Next week, we'll continue to work on these exercises while also introducing Backing, Lunging Stage 2, Circle Driving, & hopefully Round Penning. Depending on how things are looking, I may do a first saddle. However, I may wait until after the retreat, depending on what he shows me.
- Lexy Nuesch
Next week's update will be posted on Friday.
I do my best to get these updates posted in a timely manner, but it's not uncommon for me to be outside until after dark, depending on the weather, my schedule, & who gets worked when so updates will sometimes be posted quite late in the evening. Don't be alarmed if you don't see your update right away. In rare cases, I may have to push them until the next morning, but I'll reach out & let you know if so.
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