So, this is it. Summer has FINALLY arrived ( well it did a week ago but I'm useless at updating this often!) and so the work begins for us both ( the title is incorrect but I thought it was funny- I know it's sad)....
This is my last summer which I'll probably get freedom, because I'm sure after next years study leave, I'll need a job to pay for Shadow so not as much time. So every moment needs to be precious.
It's my 15th birthday next Tuesday ( 3rd August), so I've asked for money for books and have constructed a rather large list of books. Mum asked me earlier what I wanted to do for my Birthday and I said, not a lot- I'll go to the yard and do some bits with Shadow and then come home and read my books ( hehe!) I'm definitely one of Amazons favorite customers. Alongside books I'm planning on booking some lessons with Jill ( EE instructor) and I'd like to get a nice bridle for Shadow and get myself some new riding boots as my boots are good for mucking out and general bits, but do get a bit big for riding in!!!
So, Shadow met an umbrella for the first time on Tuesday ( 27th July) and his reaction was quite funny - he wasn't scared or freaking out, he just looked and cocked his head to the right and started to flehmen (sp?), I gradually made the umbrella bigger- clicking him each time he touched it and accepted it ( I hope that is right?) and then I managed to get it open- he took it all in his stride- he ended up holding the handle of it and walking with it at one point and he let me hold it above him and either side- so when we're out on our wanders eventually, if anyone ever does open an umbrella, he won't freak ( knowing Shadow, he'll most probably eat it!!!). Also had our best record for standing still- I got about 7 foot away from him and he stood for around 10 seconds- which is a huge step. I'm hoping as we progress this will get better.
Unfortunately, as expected and always said, we've hit the mouthy stage- I'm trying to ignore him when he pushes, but sometimes when I lead or handle him, he does try to bite, so I just push his nose away ( any other tips on dealing with this would be grateful!). But nevertheless, we're going to overcome this hurdle and he's going to make me prouder than I already am of him!
Tomorrow, I think we're going to do some standing still and perhaps try some pressure yielding- either that or I may do a bit of in-hand with the clicker- i.e walking forward and standing to the rein, but we'll see!!!
Thanks for reading!
Love Amy and Shadow. xxx
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