Fall of her third year, Encore! is ready to get serious. We had a lunge date at 4:45 p.m. today. She fired all her jets to celebrate her new schedule. Yes! We have to settle the bouncing around once and for all. Most of the time she is steady and reliable, but today she just had to jump around to tell me that the long line on her hip tickled and the air around her was fresh and invigorating. Still she’s good at the voice commands and perfect at the transitions, so I can’t be too concerned with the testy exuberance. However, ultimately, she must be 100% accountable, so we don’t get into trouble.
The great thing about Encore! is her spirit. She is terrific company. She is always curious, and thoroughly interested. The challenge that comes with a horse like Encore! is keeping her honest without ruining her natural enthusiasm. Her voracious appetite is just one hint at how much she enjoys life and how her enthusiasm for everything makes her a challenge to contain. My hope is that I have enough skill to bring her to obedience without ruining her natural buoyancy. Lots of moonlight walks will help. Long walks through the neighborhood will keep her happy until I get a truck and trailer and begin taking her everywhere with me.
Today, releasing her after our session of lunge and long lines she kept pushing her head to hurry me up. The moment she pushed I took my hands away until finally she stopped the game and held still while I released first the bridle and a few minutes later on the halter. Smart cookie this one. She knows the drill, but she still tests the boundaries. She‘s one that requires absolute consistency, if she’s ever going to learn to be trustworthy. That’s my job now, consistency. I owe it to her. She’s such a special creature. Smart and beautiful, plus she’s got that sweet side to steal your heart. That’s our Encore!
Catalina
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