Thursday's Stable Visit

Yesterday's visit was fun. When we arrived it was pretty dark, so we didn't waste any time getting Eli and Ella into the barn. Jesse brought Eli in, removed his turn-out sheet and then went into the Arena. I joined them for some fun, once Jesse started lunging and working with Eli I went out and got Ella.



When I brought Ella in I tied her and removed her two layers, fleece and rain sheet, brushed her down and while Jesse and Eli were working in the Arena Ella and I worked on putting on her bridle with the bit. I don't think I like the nylon bridle I have. I bought it thinking it would be easy and convenient to use over top a halter as it has less straps (no nose band) and just the throat latch to do up, BUT I find that the brow band slides down the cheek pieces - I guess because nylons slippery. It's so low at some points you would think it was the nose band.



In any case she did well. So we practiced lowering her head and putting on/taking off the bridle three times - each time she became a little more accepting and patient for me. Then we headed into the Arena to do some lunging and ground work.


During the ground work, respecting each others bubbles, there was a lot of chewing - which is a really good sign and while we walked around the Arena both their heads were low - so they seemed pretty relaxed. Afterwards we went back into the barn and proceeded to groom, hoof pick etc.

Yesterday was the first time Jesse worked solely with Eli, I was there if he had questions or to help point out minor things if needed. It was also the first time we had Eli and Ella in the Arena together, not loose, but on their leads. I will hold off turning them loose in the Arena until Ella is a little more confident and comfortable, I have no doubt they would behave I just know that Eli is comfortable being in the Arena loose but afraid of Ella whereas Ella isn't afraid of Eli but isn't comfortable to be loose in the Arena just yet as she gets quite nervous and doesn't know what to do - that will come with time. Once she trusts us more and is fine on her own then we'll turn them out in the Arena together to stretch out.

In the barn while tied Ella was so quiet, she's already come so far with relaxing indoors. I am amazed at how fast she progresses, such a smart girl. I think having Eli around helps calm her as she realizes she's fine as he is such a big baby and he's OK.

Calm and quiet 

The hay net was once again empty so I filled it back up, will definitely pick up an EcoNet for both of them. It was nice to be in the Arena today with Jesse and both of us having our own mounts. I can't wait until summer when we can hop on outdoors and go for a trail ride. I'm sure Eli will appreciate the Equine company during lessons and riding as well.

I have to admit I am really happy and impressed with how well Jesse's doing with Eli and how much calmer and more trusting Jesse has become thanks to Eli's sweet disposition. They really are buddies.

Funny picture below, just like the picture of Eli and Jesse peering through the Arena door into the barn at Ella and her new hot pink rain sheet, there they are again in the distant background.

Here are Some Video Clips of Yesterdays visit. They will be posted to the Video's page as well. 

Ella being calm and relaxed

Eli thinks he's in a box stall

Jesse lunging Eli 

Running along