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Dernier Succes Sabrina & Mimi |
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Sabrina, 13 years old, wanted to learn about horses, what to do, and develop a good relationship with her horse, Mimi, age 27. Mimi had mostly been used as a riding horse by previous owners and now wanted nothing to do with people. She made it clear, with pinned ears and walking away when approached, to turning and kicking and running off. An NHE program built on respect (to her!) and communication exercises soon transformed Mimi into a happy, willing friend. It is not experience that is required, but willingness to learn about the health and welfare of the horse. Yes, NHE is quite simple... |
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Above: From the past, Mimi only knew about being told what to do and having to react, through force, for the entertainment and past time of humans. She was a little surprised to actually now have a choice and Sabrina`s attempts at communication instead of being forced to react through physical means. A small exercise, a big breakthrough. The beginning of understanding and stretching in preparation for the Spanish Walk. |
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Above: All work is done from the ground. Mimi suddenly soon starts matching Sabrina`s steps. In a field of grass, she is attentive, learning and gaining strength. Also the start of vertical flexion to work toward natural collection. |
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Leisure walks to hill work, play and precision with the lunge whip. From uncertainty and nervousness to confidence and fun. Collection in-hand leads to collection on the lunge line. The lunge whip never touches the horse, nor is used to cause fear. It remains a signal from a distance, along the ground behind the horse, as a plant stem is used in close proximity in-hand. By the time we get to lunge exercise, we most likely will not even use the lunge whip... or the lunge line. This is mainly an exercise of focus and self-discipline for Sabrina. Sabrina and Mimi have advanced to a true friendship in a very short time. A 13 year old girl has achieved more trust and cooperation with her `rebellious` horse than an adult traditional trainer with halter, lead and chain and forceful whip. Sabrina & Mimi are accomplishing a learned understanding and a willingness that can only be gained between friends. These same ground exercises of communication, understanding, fitness, confidence and the eventual natural collection will all come together should Sabrina wish to ride duplicating the same exercises under saddle... with only a cordeo (a light strap/rope around the horse`s shoulders) I am very proud of this young woman. |
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