Today was Gypsy's first full day at the farm. She seems to be settling in pretty well and doesn't seem to mind the goats. She is grazing well, eating her hay and dug into her small amount of Nutrena SafeChoice Maint. feed. We also started her on a joint supplement for maintenance. She was easy to catch and stood to be haltered. Leads well and stood tied nicely, although when Mom started feeding the goats she did paw impatiently some. Spooked at the mane and tail spray, but then let me use it after some reassurance. Stood perfectly to be saddled and took the bit. She does lead better with the halter than with the reins.
Gypsy didn't mind the mounting block at all, although it took a try or two to teach her to stand. This is an item to work on. I asked her to stand still for several minutes after I mounted to get her used to the idea and will do so each ride.
Starting off, she has no leg cues which I will also work on. We walked off with no trouble and once I got over my little fear of being left behind as she rocketed off into the stratosphere, we went very well. Her walk and the next faster gait were very smooth and she is responsive to the bit with a light mouth. Her whoa, turns and back are well developed. I enjoyed the ride very much and am looking forward to trying again!
Items of note:
1. Thrush in back feet that needs treating and hooves need trimming badly and front shoes pulled.
2. Will work on standing still to be mounted and standing in general.
3. Work on relaxing her and getting her to move slowly when warranted.
4. She is somewhat jumpy and needs to settle in and learn to trust. Being in the hustle and bustle of the barn will help her to desensitize and she just needs to have more things done with her.
5. Mites in front ears - working on eliminating them.
6. Very sweet demeanor; I think she will bond.
Very positive first experience!
Gypsy didn't mind the mounting block at all, although it took a try or two to teach her to stand. This is an item to work on. I asked her to stand still for several minutes after I mounted to get her used to the idea and will do so each ride.
Starting off, she has no leg cues which I will also work on. We walked off with no trouble and once I got over my little fear of being left behind as she rocketed off into the stratosphere, we went very well. Her walk and the next faster gait were very smooth and she is responsive to the bit with a light mouth. Her whoa, turns and back are well developed. I enjoyed the ride very much and am looking forward to trying again!
Items of note:
1. Thrush in back feet that needs treating and hooves need trimming badly and front shoes pulled.
2. Will work on standing still to be mounted and standing in general.
3. Work on relaxing her and getting her to move slowly when warranted.
4. She is somewhat jumpy and needs to settle in and learn to trust. Being in the hustle and bustle of the barn will help her to desensitize and she just needs to have more things done with her.
5. Mites in front ears - working on eliminating them.
6. Very sweet demeanor; I think she will bond.
Very positive first experience!
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