Holly

Holly was such a good girl in the Dressage saddle; once it was on her.
She did not know what to think at first when I tacking her up with it. Guess she's just never been used with one. I know she hasn't.
It fits OK, a little low in front so going to find a wither riser pad to put underneath it I think. I do have the Mattes under it as well, but this little horse does not have much of a wither. *sigh*

So, walk and trot were good in it, and no 'crow-hopping/hunched back' like she had been starting off doing some of in the westerns she was ridden/worked in, so that's a good thing.
The canter was OK as well, but she did not 'look' as comfortable, her movement was good, but her ears were back, not laid back, about as far back as she would put them as if she was listening to something back there, so perhaps listening to the saddle, as it does make different noises, squeakier perhaps? ( Due to the 'fake' leather stirrup leathers that need to be replaced ).

But otherwise, just did some lunge work w/t/c with side reins, working on rhythm (and balance!). She was the best I have seen her go-much more consistent in her work and listening much quicker. I was very happy.
Her owner watched the last bit of it, and I am sure she is wondering why I am not riding her around, teaching her 'tricks', etc. to 'be' a dressage horse, but it just doesn't work like that. So, it was a little nervewracking to be watched (critisized?), but I just have to stick to my convictions and beliefs on training. That the mare needs the solid groundwork first before the riding, and that she did not have that solid groundwork that I wanted when we first began with her. Also, even though she does have a solid w/t/c foundation and is 'nice' to ride, there are some little things like rhythm and balance that I want to address. I am 'filling' in little training foundation bits to get her to a more solid, basic foundation for dressage, and really, any other discipline, it just takes longer than some people like for it to take. I also am 'taking my time' with this little horse because I do not want to overface or overwhelm her mind- I can see it in her eyes and body language when she gets confused or overwhelmed, and I do not want her to be there. So, taking it slow will give her the confidence she needs to excel and be a better horse. I just pray that the owner will see this and appreciate what I am doing.
Now, it is late AM, and I am wondering whether to go out and work her now (100+ degrees) or wait until the evening to work her?? Mmmmm, not sure yet.
My list of 'To Do' will be up, shortly. ;)
Have a good day,
-Em