Clicker trainers tend to get excited about the smallest of things. When we see a muscle move for the first time, it’s a miracle! We celebrate often – it’s the smallest of things. And it keeps the party atmosphere going!
I’ve talked about the time I have spent with Danny – just working on the mat each day and getting him to lift and use his hind end some more. I also had him in boots for over a year to work on his very low heels.
I’ve shown the pictures before – but I just want to show them again – because this is what clicker trainers get excited about!
I can’t ride Danny – his back is sore, as well as his hind legs. He has bad scarring from a fence injury in his early years and his hind legs do not work well. Combine that with thin soles and flat heels, and it’s a wonder he would walk anywhere!
But I can help him with his body!
Through microshaping he was able to attempt the exercise in the smallest of moves! I have included a link to Alexandra Kurland’s DVD. It really helped me to understand it.https://www.theclickercenter.com/dvd-lessons-9-10
For me, microshaping helps your brain to slow down. And it can become meditative for the horse…. and human!
I have talked in a recent post about Monty’s big breakthrough! You can find it here. Small Miracles…. These are the successes to have a party about! The big breakthrough may be tiny in ‘normal’ terms – but what a change for the horse! What must be going on in their heads. How did Monty feel about that?
We often have small parties in the horse shed. It’s a happy place. We celebrate regularly. We had a party when Magnum accepted the grinder on his hoof. In fact, we made the grinder a cue to have a party. They all got treats when the grinder made a noise. The party continued – and even now I like to have a party atmosphere.
It’s the same with hoof trimming. The horses just love having their turn! Even now, if I come out with my trimming tools, the nickering starts. Here’s a video of Ducati’s reaction!
I want it to be fun. Fun creates such a different energy. The horse isn’t seen as something to subdue. We are just both playing our part in the puzzle we put together.
Now let’s finish this post off with a video of celebrations! In fact, I want to say – the more we celebrate – the more we celebrate! It becomes the funnest of times!
Until next time!
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