IMPROVING...yea

ok..so as some of you know i've been working a a new horse , cricket...she has basically been a pasture buddy for 2 years..but any way...about the first of feb. i started working with her..just little stuff like brushing and cross ties and backing up and squaring and standing still...well the first week i started this she could not stand still in the cross ties at all , she was stressed out and couldn't stand still...the other day i had a half day so i went to see her and i put her in the crossties and she pretty much fell asleep! she was go good and quite and stood perfect...and i took her out of the barn first time and backed her up and mad her stand...she was really good for her first time out...so..i'm very happy... and proud...

YAY!! ooh got any tips?? it seems like she picked up on it pretty quick :) what kind of magic did you work, because i am having trouble with those things lol

)thanks..lol..just remember to take your time...there just learning, don't work on one thing for to long, and reward with pats and "good girl' not food...that just gets them pushy. i usally bring her into the cross tie and get calm, do not put them in them if there stressed. find out there 'sweet spots' for example, cricket loves her tummy to be brushed...so while she's in there i make sure i get her all brushed under there. make it enjoyable not a punishment. talk to them nicely. it's not so much your words it's your tone. if you trying to get the to stand still make sure you only hold them for like 5-10 seconds at a time then reward.work your way up to like 10-20 seconds then so on and so on...remember, the little stuff matter if you work with them on the ground for what seems like forever your riding will be so much more easyer. mske them repect you and trust you. now, as soon as i get to the barn cricket is right there at the gate waitting...have help and keep sessions short. it also helps if you have a horse that craves to please. #1 rule, it's not a race, take you time, be patient and keep your cool. there not going to get it the first time..( or possible the 20th time..but they will good luck!)

I love that feeling when you know you have accomplished something like that in training a horse. Congrats you must be soooooo happy

isn't awesome?...i'm putting my heart and soul into this horse...i really hope it pays off

Congrats!! This was no small feat and you should be very proud of yourself and your horse!! Some do not know how difficult these basics are for horses (and owners!). Most horses come to us with these things already learned. Good for you!!

I've been working with an 9 month old and he is already quite large. There are days when I just want to call it quits. Babies so much better to own in the long run, take so much time to train.

Keep being patient, it will pay off. My 3 year old is the best horse I have ever owned and that is because I have had him since a weanling.