Acclimation- Day 1

I am so pleased with Whisper. He met the rake and survived. He went from whirling and moving off to just cocking an ear at me while I cleaned his pasture. Then, he made the acquaintance of his trainer and gave her his stamp of approval – stood there quite happily while she scratched him and told him what a beautiful boy he is. She feels he is an Appendix Horse (thoroughbred/quarter horse cross) which I believe was what I was originally told. I might have to do some digging there.

We worked on his evading skills (my catching skills). The trainer had backed up to him from the side until she was directly beside him. This worked so well that I tried it and was able to halter him without any hassle or treats.

He seems to be interested and energized by his new surroundings. We went for a walk and he grazed a little but mostly looked around. We went into the barn which was full of horse and people bustle. Their noise and even the wind whistling thru hardly bothered him. He looked at everything twice and never flinched or pranced, or showed any sign of being overly concerned. He did draw the line at the washrack. To be fair the shutters were on the windows and I think he might go in if those are pushed back and he can see out. I’ll try that tomorrow. I would like to hose down his knee although it’s looking a lot better.

After returning to the pasture he stood still while I put some cream on his leg. This is major. He has never just relaxed beside me without a halter on before. I can’t wait to start on his groundwork tomorrow.