He's baaack . . .

My good responsive, energetic horse is back.

It is now one week after his hoof trimming, and he seems to have adjusted; no more Mr. Tenderfoot. Last night’s ride was full of very nice energetic walking, and lovely trot transitions. Willing to back up, very nice turns on the forehand, and medium good leg yields. Plus we worked on softening in the poll, and he is doing well.

We did canter, although there was less willingness to make a canter transition and less willingness to keep cantering, but I think I know how to fix that on tonight’s ride. He hadn’t cantered for a whole week, so naturally we are set back. Still, a big improvement.

Plus, he is so very cute. For a non-personcentric horse, he can be very engaging. He no longer roughly butts me with his head, but he has taken to giving a little bump with his nose which I find quite cute. He also understands when he will get a carrot chunk, so he is definitely looking for one at those times, like after he has stood still for me to dismount. He’s polite, but looks quite charming as he cranes his neck to look at my pocket.

A schooling ride this evening will be followed (I really hope . . . weather, weather) by two glorious days of trail rides. Couldn’t be a nicer prospect.