The last few weeks have had some really great high points and one incredibly low one.
Ever positive, we will recount the high points first!
We have some lovely new horses! Aragon and Polvera came to join us last month, they were gifted to us from a very generous lady who breeds dressage horses, she felt they would be happier with us. We are very grateful as they are sweethearts and a bonded pair, we were glad they could stay together. They are currently relaxing into herd life and starting some light play sessions with Andrea. We like our horses to be able to choose to partake in their training, or indeed not, which is why we predominately use bridge and target training (a bit like clicker training for dogs) using treats and a word (in our case "Good!") to let them know when they have done the right thing. We love it, and so do the horses. We do this at liberty (no rope attached to the horse) so they have the choice to stay and play or leave. The result? Super motivated horses that squabble at the gate to be chosen first!
We introduced the trail less traveled to cater to experienced and seasoned riders. Heading off across the reserve and out into farm land we truly "get out there". Imagine pure jungle, logs to jump, rivers to forge and fields to gallop in. This ride is a dream come true for true riders. Whilst not really technically difficult, this is not a trail for people who only ride occasionally, this is a riders ride! The horses love it and so will you!
Losing one of our equine kids is always heartbreaking, and, thankfully incredibly rare. One of the hard parts of having animals in your life is knowing when to say goodbye. Tequilla had a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer. After two operations and many months of hoping and praying, we knew it was time to do what was right for him, even though we knew we would never feel ready.
Tequilla was a total angel and everyone that knew him loved him unconditionally. You will be greatly missed big fella and will be forever in our hearts.