Third day working with Tumbleweed, and he still has a lot of pent up energy, so no rides. He has a case of the bucks, kicks, rolls, and spooks.
All I’m really asking for right now is connection, and he gives that to me well when he’s near me. His emotions get bigger when I push him away and ask him to work on the long line. He picks up the trot on his own, and I try to get him back to the walk, then I have him face up and rest when he listens.
Since it’s winter, he hasn’t had much turnout, and he has energy he needs to release.
To help him get that energy out safely, I’m going to start putting him in the arena with some buddy horses everyday. The sand is just too tempting for a horse who wants (and needs) to get the crazies out.
I’m still waiting to get with Katie, but I’d like to have him quieter before she comes. We’re expecting a temperature climb next week, and that will probably be the best time to really work him. Right now, it’s in the teens at night and just above freezing during the day, so I hesitate to get him all sweaty where he needs a really long cool down period, and that’s what it’s going to take.
Update: Katie is coming tomorrow.
How about you all? Hunkering down, or trying to work your horses in winter?
Well, I was riding Skeets until the weather went to absolute crap. Once it warms up again, we'll get back at it. I hope all goes well with Katie and Tweed tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteOops, I guess I'm a day behind. I hope all goes well with them TODAY.
DeleteThe weather sure can put a stop to it. February is still around the corner. 🥶 I’m looking very much forward to today! 40 degree high and sunny and Katie is coming. Yay.
DeleteI’m in full hunker mode. But I’m making my plans for spring weather.
ReplyDeleteFull hunker mode. 😆 love it. Enjoy your quiet time.
DeleteTumbleweed isn't the only one with Winter Crazies, and I am not talking about our horses!
ReplyDeleteWe are now just getting up into positive single air temp digits, add the wind and it is still brutal outside. Turnout has been limited, or briefly in the indoor arena. Some days involve a bit of twirling, otherwise our horses stand around sheltering inside. We should get above freezing this weekend.
Enjoy your warmer bug-less temps! Looking forward to reading about your time with Katie & Tumbleweed.
😆 you getting the winter crazies, Aurora? It sounds brutal where you’re at. Horses are smart and know to take it easy. Just got done with Katie and now off to run errands. I will give an update soon. Great day though!
ReplyDeleteYes, I am missing my usual Winter walks. I was wrong about our weather. It will be another 10 days before WI gets above freezing. However, sunny and single digit afternoons are warm enough for the horses to get a little turn out.
DeleteYay for great days!!
Ah the exuberance of youth! My old girls just amble along, the occasional trot if they happen to spot something across the river that warrants alarm bells, but mostly they are content to walk around- they have a lot of room and to get from the morning feed area to where the round bale is keeps them moving. They have their favorite dozing spot in the winter pasture so they are actually getting plenty of exercise.
ReplyDeleteWe are expecting some plus temps on the weekend, unfortunately accompanied by freezing rain Friday night and Saturday morning. Can you say, ice?