Saturday, April 25, 2009

Misty & Marley Go to School - Part 4

The Tarp Lesson

Tarps are scary things. They crackle and flap around and flutter in the wind. And sometimes they chase horses.

There are many benign things on the trail and out in the world that can frighten a horse. You and I may immediately recognize them as harmless, but to a horse that is hard wired to flee from danger, they are a mountain lion about to pounce. Misty is particularly sensitive to noises and things behind her. She has needed extra tutoring to learn not to panic when exposed to unfamiliar sights and sounds.

I was happy to see that Misty remembered last year's lessons from beginner driving training. Pulling a tarp was pretty routine.





Although, when the tarp got close enough to touch her, she wanted to run away. She will need to study this lesson a little more.





But for the most part, she took it all in stride. I was proud of my girl.



Ho Hum. Ropes? Tarps?
No problem, as long as that thing doesn't sneak up and tickle me.

Misty, I have to tell you, I think that tarp is eventually going to work itself up onto your back.

Stay tuned.

3 comments:

  1. Yes, she really is.
    It is funny you know, just looking at your pictures from the other side of the world and still I get an impression on what kind of a horse she (and Marley)is.
    Of course, your description of the horses and the stories you tell makes the background; but I believe that we (unconsciously) get much information just by looking at the expression in the horse's eyes and face.
    What fascinating animals they are!

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  2. They are very expressive, aren't they? I've learned a lot more about what goes on between those ears of theirs recently. It is fascinating indeed. I'm exhausted though.

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