I bought a two-year old filly as some of you know. We have been getting used to each other. She has had the run of things where she came from. She is finding out that we have a routine here. After a few days of her being a pushy, almost obnoxious pest, she is turning into a delight to have around.
I don't think that I have had many horses who have ever enjoyed being brushed more than she. Her coat and mane was a bit unruly, perhaps shaggy was a better word. She didn't like being in the aisle. She didn't like being tied and under my control. She fought the halter and monkeyed around a bit. I just let her and the halter work it out while I did chores and other jobs, paying her no attention.
Now, she will walk right over to the place where I tie them for harnessing and grooming. She waits to be clipped up. Once I start on her with a brush or curry comb she quivers her lip and practically goes to sleep as I remove the old winter hair. She knows her stall and has bonded with her stall mate.
She pushed my buttons the first couple of days, but I bit my lip and stayed calm and persistent. I can be a hot head sometimes, but I walked away instead of reacting. She comes right to me now looking for praise or a friendly pat. I think going slow with her is best. She is a smart one. Once I build the trust bond, I think we can move forward with her training. I will have her harnessed and started very soon.
