Some progress

I worked with her two ways today. Once with the herd and once without. I have figured out her comfort zone, its about 10ft from the herd. So we worked that.

The barn owner came out and helped me put the stud chain on correctly and use it correctly. That was a relief. I have an issue with holding the chain tight instead of releasing immediately, therefore I am negating the true value of it. We worked in a small tiny 10 ft area away from the horses. We got her to stand quietly but she did want to trot a few times instead of walk. She has Woah down and so now I am going to start asking for the walk. We also practiced "back" a few times. She is smart, just in tune with the herd.

I know this all sounds really pretty and blah blah blah. It was honestly really ugly. She is somewhat hard to handle and requires firmness. My BO said I am too relaxed in working with Dodge, if I want Dodge to pay attention I need to be more into a working position if that makes any sense. My total inexperience in this line of work is making this somewhat difficult for me. But I know I can work through this and I know it will be worth it in the end. I just know it. The first ride with her where I can get everything perfect will be awesome and just put a giant smile on my face.

I am thinking this could be months worth of work ahead of me. The BO made the comment that we should probably teach Dodge like a 2 year old horse and start from teh begining with her. I think this may be the best idea. Dodge is learning, she really is. I need to be a little quicker with my let go of the chain though, I will make a concious effort of this tomm when I go out. I won't go out if its raining though or if it just rained. It's too dangerous. Dodge hops around too much and if she falls both of us could get hurt.

I also didn't like the stud chain in the begining but I do see its purpose now. Dodge is downright dangerous. I wouldn't want my own mother to see Dodge right now, I'd be afraid her inexperience would get her seriously hurt. (not saying I'm all that great)

My 1000lb peice of work.