#65 - The pain Boss, the pain! My thighs are screaming!

Oh my god! I repeat! OMG! Just sitting down to write this blog made my thighs clench into stones and not release! It's like having a cramp with every movement I make.

This morning my thighs yelled at me to not get on that horse but I did it anyway.

Apart from the obvious pain Teddy was legendary. Seriously that horse has a lot more going on then he's been letting be known. I did my practise of posh reining, all the other stuff about keeping my body in position, as well as the balancing stuff. Probably a 45 minute session. I did it all at a walk so I could really concentrate on getting it right and I was really happy with my progress.

And Teddy just performed like a pro. I would just turn my head and Teddy knew where to go. He was better than the school horse I rode yesterday. He wasn't pushy or forward, he did everything I asked of him and the second half of the practise was done through grass as long as his legs so he had to concentrate on where he was going as well as what I was asking of him. After the first trip up in the grass he was right on the ball and did a great job.

I have to thank you Teddy, you could have tried it on but you didn't. Nothing phased you, not even the heat, and you worked up a little sweat. You wanted to make me happy and you did. You're wonderful!

#64 - I copped a beating and then I met Elvis!

Little do people realise the strength required and muscles used to ride a horse - particularly when it is done properly. My aching thighs, its unbelievable and I'm doing it all again tomorrow on my own. Yep a glutton for punishment.

I had my second dressage lesson today and I was on the horse for over an hour and easily spent 3/4 of that time out of the seat balancing with my thighs; you're not allowed to use the stirrups, reins etc for support, heels must be down, chest out, arms by sides, knees loose, back straight, pelvic forward, you can't use any of your muscles below the knee, you must have contact with your calves on the horse, shoulders back, grip those reins but don't use them! My instructor wont even let me look at the horse when I'm on him! All this at a trot and not even a rising trot as you only get to go back into the saddle when you cant stay up any longer. Count, count, count for how long you did it successfully then do it again. As you can imagine its a TOTALLY NATURAL state for your body to be in for an hour!

After the ride I watch some others do a trial and then went and visited my friend Justine to meet her adopted foal Elvis.

As Justine puts it, the real Elvis drew people to him in droves and apparently so does this little bloke, hence the name. Also he was born very small and his legs were wonky, he used to shake them to the side like he was doing the Elvis dance! Dare I say it... he was all shook up! God that jokes so bad I'm keeping it!

This poor Elvis is a twin but his mother rejected him and kept his sister. She didn't want the runt I guess. The mare's owners couldn't afford the time to raise a newborn foal so Justine took him on and an excellent job she is doing.
He has gained heaps of weight after round the clock feeds every three hours and his crooked legs have straighten right up. Though he's still a runt wearing the dogs coat!

I think the photos of him are great particularly the one with his little doggy play mate - at least they can share their wardrobe for now. Elvis also has the total run of the house inside and out!

Way to go Elvis!

#63 - Took Teddy to the Kyneton riding ground

Today Teddy and I walked down the road to the Kyneton riding ground. He was excellent. After the last episode a few months back he was actually unbelievably good. He was great near the roads, did all that I asked, didn't freak out over anything and apart from being on full alert he took the time to graze etc. In short he trusted me.

I couldn't be happier with his progress. It just goes to show he has turned the corner to feeling safe with me and that the hard work is definitely paying off.

One thing that concerns me is there is a section of the trip that I think is unsafe and I want to find an alternative path. The road is 80km single lane either side, typical country road, but there is a section were there is a storm water flood way that leads directly to the road. Before and after this there is a lot of land either side so you can walk a reasonable distance from to roads edge. At this section you cant so you have to cross the road at a diagonal to get past it safely and then cross again to get on my side of the road. Each cross also requires negotiating the embankments. If there is traffic or some yahoo comes down there too fast (I think the average driver is doing 100 km anyway) then it could be disastrous.

I think there is a possible alternative where I can go to our back gate into the neighbours property, through their property's back gate to the bushland resort. Then all I would have to do would be to walk through the resort straight to the riding grounds. The thing is they're the 'weird' neighbours and I'd prefer not to have too much to do with them. I also don't know if there is access at that gate. I'll have to look into this further before asking them if I can access when I want. If they say yes I'd "owe" them which would be a worrying prospect considering the stories I've been told.

#62 - Another great day with Teddy

Things just seems to be going from strength to strength with Teddy.

Tacked him up this morning and all went very well. He resisted the bridle but I remained very calm and patient and it eventually went on. So I took it off again and we done the whole thing 4 times over. He was quite OK with it by the second go. I also used his regular bridle and there was no indication of a problem with his mouth at all.

He was great and I am wrapped that things are going so well. I do expect to see some issues sooner or later as its inevitable that something will happen but we are definitely mates now and that's what matters.

#61 - Had my first professional riding lesson today

I drove to Bolinda today to have the first riding lesson of my life with Kim. I've been on horses since I was about 11 years old but was never taught and never really accomplished at it. I decided when I got Teddy that I wanted to be a good horse person on the ground and in the saddle. Today was my first step towards the latter. I will be working at it a lot now I am on a holiday break.

Kim from Aurum Equestrian Centre was great, really friendly, down to earth and explained herself well. Luckily I knew a person who put in a good word for me as she doesn't advertise lessons any more and is apparently selective about who she will take on.

I rode a beautiful 16.1 hh palomino gelding named Dick. Stocky as they come. Unfortunately for Dick I called him Teddy more times then not. Ahh well!

I have started at the very beginning as its important to me that I master balance and rhythm. It also appears that I have unknowingly been riding western style. I neck rein, sit deep etc. But these lessons will be based in dressage; though I doubt I will be progressing to traditional dressage work.

I learnt a lot in my first day and was really happy that I'm finally on the path to accomplishing another dream. I will be back in the saddle on Thursday.

Until then I will continue to do ground work with Teddy and prepare him for saddle work as I learn it. Tomorrow I will just tack him up and not ride, just to see how he goes with the bit. If all goes well I will do some ground work with him across the road at the riding centre.

It was like Teddy knew I was going to see another horse this morning. As I left he was neighing out and buying for my attention. He got a quick chat and then I was in the car. When I got home we hung out and I told him all about the new smell on my jumper! He was more interested in tickling my feet though!

#60 - What an excellent session with Teddy

Wow Teddy was fantastic today, if I didn't know better I'd think that he was a different horse!

We haven't done any ground work in a few weeks so I went out there with everything in hand, halter, lead rope, carrot stick, brush box etc and he came to me. Then when I put the halter on he didn't even turn his head away! Then we reviewed lessons 1 through 5 of Parelli and he did it all like a dream. Then I jogged with him beside me up and down the hallway a few times and, if anything, he was a bit lazy about it but still did it fine.

We are off to a great start to my holiday break. Way to go Teddy Bear!

#59 - Teddy has made contact with aliens!

Yes it is true! My boy Teddy may very well be sending messages to alien visitors and I'm talking the big headed, grey dudes with huge eyes!

How do I know this you ask? Well let me tell you - the first hint was when I noticed all the tracks he has left in the knee high grass of his paddock. Then the tracks became more and more elaborate. If you were looking down at the paddock from a great height these tracks would definitely form some sort of pattern.

I couldn't work out what the images (messages) Teddy was making were at first. So I got him to show me his work. Very extensive imagery let me tell you ... There was a large Y shape, lots of branch offs, a huge square shape and a large round circle. I know the average person might think that the large square is just the track around the boundary of the paddock, and maybe the large circle is where he rolled and perhaps that Y is just tracks he makes from walking either side of the gum trees... but I did start to wonder. Hmmm.

But then today I found FURTHER EVIDENCE of alien activity. Walking around the paddock chatting with Teddy I was stopped in my tracks (and the tracks Teddy has added for the aliens)... there in front of me on the ground was a mutilated duck! Seriously! It had its head removed and its body was all gross! Just like an alien cattle mutilations but this was a duck!

Now I do realise that some people might say there is another explanation, that possibility a fox killed the duck... but seriously what are the odds of that happening?

Together all the evidence clearly spells ALIENS!

I'm keeping a close eye on Teddy just in case they try and beam him up. I'll keep you posted on any further developments. Until then ... keep your eyes on the skies my friends...

#58 - One of my happiest moments so far!

I know I'm just being a big softy but even though this was a small thing it meant so much to me that it brought tears to my eyes.

I got home from work tonight at around 8.30pm. Teddy is in a front paddock and he saw my car, or me, not sure which, recognised it and came running to the road side. As I drove up the driveway he jumped around and followed the car at a trot all the way to the end of the drive, prancing around and flicking his head about. He then waited at the gate with his head hanging over the side for me to come and see him. As I stepped out of the car he gave a little nicker.

I was just so happy. He was happy to see ME and excited to see ME! He wanted my attention and pats and time and I am just so proud that nearly 6 months on I think he finally and genuinely sees me as an important part of his life. Not feed or water as he has that - just ME!

#57 - Halter off and all systems go!

It's been a flat out time for me at the moments, I think this time of years it's the same for everyone. Work has dominated so the majority of the time I spend with Teddy is bonding time and it has proved to be very beneficial. I'm still with him each day but one day it could be for 5 minutes and the next it could be 45 minutes.

He's either in the riviera or the hallway (name of two of our paddocks) as the top paddock has the 3 cows in it and they are getting to know each other. Teddy has been seeking me out, he plays scratching games, always wants to be with me, he follows me around and knows that if I stop walking he has to stop behind me and not let his neck pass my side. He does this every time now.We spend most of our social time with him loose but every other day its all done on lead and all has been good. He gets attention and neighs out for attention when he sees me. He is even seeking Steve out and Steve is responding with a pat! I actually think Steve is starting to like him!

The other day I took a handful of chaff out to him with some vitamins in it and he loved it (I do this about every third day). I left the little tub I used in the paddock with Teddy. The next day I came home from work and he was at the fence so I walked over and had a chat and pat. Teddy picked up the tub with his teeth and placed it on top of the gate, holding on to it and nodding his head up and down in front of my face. I laughed and he flung it over the gate at my feet! I love that cheeky streak in him.

I still see a tiny bit of negative attitude about the lead rope but he usually just walking a few steps away then he stops and lets me drape it around his neck. I feels that is pretty good progress, at least its a far cry for running a mile.

The halter is now off him (as of today) and I will see what comes next.

#56 - Horse question if anyone can help

I have Teddy in the hallway this weekend and I took him out some water and watched him drink, something I don't do regularly. I noticed that he took a drink then when he lifted his head just above the bucket he had a wide yawning expression on this face without the eye fluttering, and he was rolling his tongue around. He took another drink and did the same thing. Then again. I took a good look in his mouth while he was doing it and couldn't see anything, though his tongue block sight of the back of his mouth. Other times I have seen him drink he hasn't done this and I cant recall ever seeing a horse do this. It is usually just slurp, slurp and that's it. After that he just played with the bucket and the grooming box which he has always done.

I might be being paranoid but I will see if I can capture it on tape tomorrow and post it.

I was wondering if it's normal or if it was a sign of anything I should be concerned about. I was thinking of getting a dentist out soon (when I take some time off work shortly) so I can eliminate dentistry issues being related to his sudden bridle (and halter) aversion.

Is this a sign of anything as far as any of you knowledgeable horse people out there know of?

Thanks in advance

#56 - foot and mouth

Finally had the farrier trim Teddy's feet and then when I went to give Teddy some worm paste he reared up. The farrier decided I needed help and was anchoring down on him just making things worse. I just watched then said to the farrier to hand him to me. I let Teddy sniff the worm paste and easily gave it to him.

Interestingly I didn't ask for help in the first place, brute stretch didn't help in this situation and I was please my solution was easier and better.

#55 - got ya!

Today Teddy was easily caught in the hallway and was completely fine. He was a bit forward wanting to walk ahead of me but that was quickly corrected then he was groomed and rugged.

As both Steve and I work tomorrow he has been put in the front paddock so things are easier. Hopefully I can work things through from the front paddock but if not I will reinstate the hallway when I get time off work.

Riders club is having a rally this week to which I was invited but I wont be able to attend with Teddy as its at the indoor arena and I cant get us there. Beside I'm not ready for that yet, however I might go check it out.

#54 - How to piss off a horse in one easy lesson...

I thought I had the advantage today as its cold and wet and raining. I went out to the paddock with the lead rope and Teddy's rug determined to catch him as I don't want the bugs to attack him when the sun finally comes back out. My mission was to get the rug on him but in order to do that I needed to catch him.

For an hour and a half (without exaggeration) I kept the pressure on, sometimes running, sometimes crouching in a prey position and crab walking, sometimes just walking by his side with my hand on his bum or back. A few times he stopped and sniffed or engaged with me in some way but as soon as that lead rope went anywhere near him he was off.

I was determined not to stop but the wind got stronger and I was being blown backward, and the sides of my legs from hip to knee were aching from the walking, mud, knee high grass, wind and rain. I just couldn't do it any longer though I tried.

I'm pleased to say that at no stage did I get angry with him and I talked nicely too him the whole time. But I didn't want him to think that he had won so I had to go to plan B (which I made up on the spot).

I picked up the rug and headed back to the shed, got a bucket of his food and went to the opposite side of the paddock, to an area we call the hallway. I called out to Teddy who instantly recognised the feed bucket and came waltzing over. He check out there was no lead rope then approached me cautiously, stopping at the little river in front of the gate caused by the rain. I encouraged him through the gate, gave him the feed and closed the gate behind him. I left him to the feed and went to tend the veggie patch.

While tending my celery I heard the thunder of hooves gallop passed -Teddy had finally worked out he was locked in and couldn't get back to the big paddock. He cracked it badly! He ran up and down for ages, churning up the grass as he screeched to a halt at the crush then turned around and ran back up to the back gate again. He kept this up for a while occasionally stopping near the fence next to me to snort and protest. I just left him to it.

Later I went out to get him some water, but he didn't want it. He was still pacing, not at a run though, and he just looked from me and then back at the big paddock with a longing look in his eyes. When I turned to leave he neighed out to me loudly. I turned around and he looked at me pleadingly then back at the big paddock.

I told him "Suck it up princess" and came inside.

#53 - Teddy came to me and...

...played, followed, got scratches, rested his head on my arm, shadowed me, explored my clothes with his lips and ran to catch up with me. He even came from the back paddock to the front paddock to seek me out. The only difference this time was I only had a phone in my hands.

#52 - What a friggin' shambles!

It was as if Teddy knew that I wanted to catch him! What a nightmare!

I set out about 45 minutes before the farrier arrived thinking that it was a nice hot 32 degrees, I would wash Teddy and by the time the farrier pulled up Teddy would be ready to have his feet done.

Well as soon as Teddy saw me he was off. In the heat I tried everything known to man to get that bloody horse and it was no use. None stop around the paddock I went after that horse. Nothing. 5pm came and I walked over to the farrier explaining that just yesterday I walked right up to Teddy and got him with no issue whatsoever.

I went into the house and got carrots while the farrier waited. No use - the first carrot Teddy took from my hand and when I went to put the lead rope around his neck he bunny hopped backward out of reach and the second time he got a bite of the carrot and nicked off.

I was totally stuffed, hot and defeated and the farrier left without doing Teddy's feet.

I'm lost and out of ideas on how to fix this. If it wasn't for the catching issue we would be right on track as we have overcome so much! But six months later and there is no improvement with the catching at all - its actually worse.

What do I do now?

#51 - Just walked over and caught Teddy today

Finally this seems to be paying off - today I was expecting a big session with Teddy and I ended up just walking over, he met me quarter of the way, I put the lead rope around his neck and hooked the swivel clip to his halter. As simple as that. I led him to the front gate, coaching him along a tiny bit at the start, then walked the half length of the property. I gave him heaps of rubs and let him go. He just hung around for more pampering. That seemed like such a high point that it was a good place to leave the session.

Tomorrow the farrier is coming after work so this should be a good test. He's a new farrier as the old one had his license suspended for the next 18 months and cant get out here anymore. Once Teddy's feet have been done I will be back into training. It seems like a good time as his calmed down a hell of a lot (as you can tell from the last post photos).

I hope it all goes well with the new bloke. Fingers crossed.

#50 - Teddy Time! ... a photographic journey of about an hour

#49 - so far so good

The last week Teddy has improved a lot with his head issues but he is still a work in progress.
I've managed to do it on my own and with a lead rope laying across my shoulders. He is still suss on the lead rope though, you can just tell.

He's seeking me out every day so that is great and he had three children giving him heaps of attention on Sunday, which he loved a bit too much.

The weird weather has brought the bugs out and he's got a fair few bites on his neck and sides so I will watch him with that, but I have been letting have nudie runs so i have no-one to blame but myself.

Also, because I am not feeding him and adding vitamins and minerals to his feed I brought him a salt lick on a rope and and Saturday's rain dissolved the whole thing! What a waste of money.

#48 - Joined Kyneton District Adult Riders Club

I joined the Kyneton District Adult Riders Club this evening which I am sure I will get a lot of benefit out of. My friend Sam and I were lucky to get in as there are limited places due to number capping which they do so membership has the most benefit for all members. for me it seems like great timing too.

The main reason I have joined is to get a lesson every month with a qualified instructor which will compliment the ground and saddle work I have been doing myself and the private lessons I have been considering taking next year. The reserve where it is based is just across the road from my place, within walking distance, so I wont need a float for Teddy in the dry months (the use the Kookaburra Park indoor in the wet months) and we will be covered by insurance while members.

The club hold events throughout the year and they seems like a really great group of people. I recognised one of the members from getting around the traps so I think that I'm starting to fit into the Kyneton community.

The Kyneton show is on next week and as my friends and family will tell you I'm determined to get a ribbon at the Royal Melbourne for anything! as my personal badge of being "country!" The club will be holding a comp at the show so it will be a great opportunity to see them in action.

I think it's a good move for both Sam and I as Sam is getting back into the saddle after having a baby. I'm sure we will enjoy it.

http://home.vicnet.net.au/~kynarc/index.html

#47 - Spring fever!

Teddy has been much better and things have been going well the last four days. I try to touch him everywhere first before touching his face and he is completely fine with this (loving it really) but still gets head shy if you go straight for the face. He's back to seeking me out and not fearing me again so that has to be a good thing.

We have a new cute game where I just wiggle my fingers in a scratching motion but I don't move my hand and he moves his face around in the places he wants a scratch. It been great because now I know of some new places right on the top of his head that he really likes to have scratched and it's a great reward for him.

I've also discovered that heaps of people's horses are going nuts lately because we haven't had grass in so many years and all this rain has brought a bumper load of spring grass that has them all razzed up! It's good to know I'm not alone. Besides he's not really razzed, its more head shyness/fear based issues I am facing. Ive gotten used to the natural state that is just plain Teddy the Punk.

I'm looking out to the paddock from the study right now and he is herding the poor cows (they don't much care for him when he does that!) and running around so he's getting exercise and having a play which is great. I like to see him playing and he and the cows are fatties so the exercise is good for them. though I should get him a friend over christmas so the cows can get a break. But then maybe I'll have two horse chasing cows LOL!

#46 - Message to a friend on Teddy

Thanks for the message and your concern. I welcome any advise and wont give up. Today I went out and had carrots in my hands for him and the cows. I got to the cows first so gave Chapelle a carrot and Teddy came up behind me. I knew he was there and turned around gently with a carrot out for him and he literally was shaking in the front legs for a moment. I am not sure if it was a fear response or flight but I just stood there and he didn't run, he just hung around and was a perfect guy after that, like there was no threat at all. I had my hands all over his face and not a problem and then he followed me back to the house. Even when I went over to give Mercedes a carrot he was not pushy or anything but I did feel a dominant air about him. Fickle bloody horse he is!

The only other person I have seen try to catch him was Sam when I first got him and he was stand offish with her too. Not to the extent he is now but he wasn't to this extend for me then either. I do agree that this is probably a dominance thing as I cant see how it could be a fear thing. The only other thing I this is it is from that bridle I brought and used twice. That is the only connection I can make as it happened directly after the first time I used it on him and he was behaving strangely that day as I was riding him - actually both times I used it. My first thought was to have his teeth checked then I realised that when Pol did the assessment on him about two week prior he was completely fine. I used his regular bridle then and always in the past without a problem but when I bought the saddle I realised I had left my bridles in Sam's float so I just brought a $60 one there and used it on him twice (I was too impatient wanting to ride!).

I will spend a couple of weeks to see if i can get him past it before attempting to put his old bridle back on. If he acts strange with that then I know its something else. I know he is a punk and he has attitude, which really isn't that bad, and even after rearing up a few times on me yesterday i then cleaned and oiled his hooves and he was fine. It's just around his face he acts a shit. Otherwise he is doing great with peralli and has been good with me on him. Better than I even expected. But what is with the leg shakes? I wish I knew. It's got be baffled. He's getting fat too with all this spring grass too and I've got heaps of it so I want to be able to exercise him. Ahh well! what's a girl to do?

#45 - I just want to give up

I'm sick and tired of a lot of things lately but when it comes to Teddy I just want to give up. I try and try and as soon as I think I've gotten through one thing another thing appears. And then I end up back at the catching problem again.

It has rained here for days so I haven't been able to work with Teddy after work. Two days pass and he's worse than he has ever been.

Now he rears up every time I go to halter him. I keep reassuring him and I get it on him eventually but I am always in danger as I have to get my arm around his head and then when I go to put the band around his nose he freaks, gets a terrified look in his eyes and rears up. Today I backed up into the gate trying to get out of the way. Thankfully it wasn't the electric fence.

So now I have a catching and haltering problem. Every time I think I'm getting somewhere I discover I'm getting nowhere. I've left a halter on him now (not a string one) - may as well just admit defeat by doing that.

I'm just so sick of it.

#44 - stop raining!

I know I live in a drought stricken country and shouldn't complain when it rains but this is getting ridiculous!

There was a brief break in the rain this morning so I rushed out and lungeed Teddy as he is getting too fat on all this spring grass and i wouldn't have had the time to ride him, so that was todays exercise.

It was difficult getting the halter over his nose and this has persisted since using the new bridle on him so I don't know what I have done by using it but I wont be using it again. I've finally picked up my other bridles from Sam's.

In the end, after the lunge I dried him off (rain not sweat), had some one-on-one time with him and rugged him up for the next downpour. Hopefully it wont be raining tomorrow and we can do more saddle work.

#43 - talk about molting!

I'm very glad Teddy doesn't use the shower because the amount of hair he is loosing would cause a permanent drain blockage! I was covered in the stuff this evening.

I have been getting home too late to do a lot recently so its been a few days since he's been ridden or had a lesson but he has had a lot of undemanding time just hanging with me as I always make time to go and sit with him, give him a carrot or something, even if its only for a few minutes.

Today I went out in the paddock and sat down and read and ignored Teddy while I looked up a lesson for him. After a while the curiosity got the better of him and he was in my face saying g'day. But as soon as I was ready and grabbed the halter he buggered off! Even a few days off and its a backward step with this catching stuff. He did catch me in the end though.

I also discovered he is doing a new behaviour; for the second time he is lifting his head so I cant get the nose band of the halter on. He is tall enough that at full arm stretch I cant reach when his head is lifted skyward. This has only occurred since bridling him with the new bridle so they may be connected.

We went and did some yo-yo and circle games and he performed really well at both of them. He is definitely a typical horse when it comes to favouring his left side. When he was going around me on the right he took a bit longer to adjust. But he did fine. The important thing was my feet didn't move an inch with either game. It wont be long before we are on to the sideways and squeeze.

Way to go Teddy!

#42 - bridle issues?

Teddy had a big issue with being bridled today and I'm not sure why. He resisted it going on for the first time and when it was on he kept throwing his head up, shaking his head and pulling faces. Maybe he didn't want me on his back or maybe its something to do with the bridle. He was give a kind of gagging expression but the bridle doesn't appear too tight and the bit appears fine. It's just a simple tom thumb bit and looks a good fit. I've also taken the drop nose band off. It's not his regular bridle so hopefully when I get his old one back things will be better.

I suspect the bridle was putting him off the ride too as this time he was different. He was focusing on the bridle for about half the time, pretty much until we hit the electic fence!

I was trotting along the fence line, just briefly, and he started veering off and swung his bum around and hit the electric fence before I could correct him. He threw a total spazz but I kept him under control and stayed on after all his jumping around. I'm very proud of myself for that!

I kept the ride going and took him through all but one of our paddocks. It was pleasant but I was a lot more on guard after the fence episode.

I didn't feel in sync with his trot either so I will work on that. I will have to get to Gisborne and pick up my bridles.

If anyone who might read this has any suggestions as to what his problem with the bridle might be please drop me a line. Thanks!

#41 - My horse ate my homework!

Teddy was a little better to catch today but it still took a good minute. After he was brushed up all pretty and pampered we did some ground work and went through the following:

• Protecting my person space - for a horse who didn't want a bar of me now he wants to be right beside me so we need to work on getting some distance. But its sweet so not that big of a deal
  
• Desensitizing - A+
• Yield forward direct feel - could do some work on this as he has gone to coming without being asked. I can no longer get him to stand there so I can back up. If I back up he follows. So we have gone from one extreme to another. In the end I can use my finger and just gesture him forward and he comes
• Yield forward indirect feel - 3rd go at this and he does it really well but he doesn't seem to like it as he is swishing his tail about all the time. Not quite sure why he has a problem with it.
• Yield backward direct feel - He or I am crap at this. I think I must be touching the wrong spot on his nose because he couldn't care less no matter what pressure is placed on his nose. He will shrug my hand, just stand there and even yawn but it takes ages to get a single step backward. Time to take another look at this method
• Yield backward indirect feel - He is doing well at this
• Lateral flexion - A+ and its so cute!
• Lead serpentine offside - I need to buy markers still so am doing this without them and he is still doing well. A little way to go for both sides and when I actually use markers.
  
• Stop & backup while leading from side - I cant get the backup but the rest is fine. Once again I think this is me not him.

All in all it was a good session though the fact that Teddy took the flash cards I had made from my hand and started to chew on them is a good clue of what he thinks of all this! The most important thing is he now has soft eyes most of the time and I am wrapped about that. He's relaxed at last.

#40 - She's not getting on me again is she?!

I went out after work to Teddy with the halter in my hand and he nicked off like he used to do. I was so disappointing. I had to put the pressure on and around and around the paddock we went. After a few minutes he stopped, I walked over and haltered him and he was fine.

I guess that since we went for our ride I haven't done much with him because it hasn't stopped raining. He must have decided that I wanted to ride again and he didn't want to so he buggered off. There's a reassuring thought for you! He doesn't want to let me ride him.

Anyway after I haltered him I gave him heaps of scratches and pats and played a game with him that is helping him not be muzzle shy. He was actually loving it and nuzzling me and exploring me with his lips, even tickling my cheek with his lips. Steve even came out and patted him! It's a miracle! I was sure to let Teddy know it was all fine though he could sense Steve's apprehension. I gave Teddy lots of kisses to let him know it was all OK. Then we played some more, I fed him a carrot and took the halter off.

Hopefully he is going to associate good times with the halter again soon.

#39 - I went for a ride! Yay!!!!!

It's finally happened! Teddy and I went off riding around the paddock - just the two of us. Wonderful!

The rain finally stopped, I had an event day at work which ended early so I got home on time, I pigged out at the event with the free food so I didn't need to cook tea, Steve was happy doing his own thing... yes the planets had finally aligned for me.

I took all my gear into the paddock and did some ground work with Teddy first. We did the latest lessons - yielding on the move, desensitisation at a walk (didn't want to do it at a trot in case it razzed him up just before our ride) and lateral flexion. He still gets annoyed by the carrot stick resting on his back when yielding forward but its something he has to get over. I also included some ground work along the fence line on his off side and he was great with that too, so it was time to saddle up!

All my tack is brand spankers so it was a bit stiff but the saddle fitted perfectly. The new bridle isn't a crack on my old one so I'm looking forward to getting the old trusted one back from Sam's (even if its the wrong colour). The new bridle also has a regular and a drop nose band which Teddy didn't much care for and I don't think he needs anyway.

So when Teddy was all saddled up and looking pretty I parked him along side the coffee table and into the stirrups I went. Very comfortable I tell you! I will adjust the stirrups down a bit for next time because I couldn't do this from the saddle as I put leather covers on them. It wasn't that bad so we set off around the front paddock, getting a feel for each other and me trying to remember all the good riding rules I never followed in the past but want to now.

We only went into a trot twice as I was trying to teach Teddy to stop by raising the rein (this doesn't come naturally to him). I also discovered that he responds to other commands well - squeezing my legs to go, neck reining to turn, pivoting (though I'm not sure I am doing that correctly myself), figure eights etc. The only thing he needs work with is stopping when I raise the reins instead of having his mouth pulled. Its important to me that he learns this as it's much better for him. Moving from a walk to trot doesn't seem natural for him either and I'm mindful of my abilities up against his polo background. Not a great match! One step at a time Teddy! I don't want to end up in the electric fence!

Steve came out with the video camera but I'm not posting it yet as it's unedited and... well all I can say is from some angles I look like a pig in a blanket! So it can bloody wait for a good editing if it makes an appearance at all. But I guess it is an historical moment for us so I should keep it. We will see.

All in all I discovered I've got a comfortable and steady seat so I doubt I'd come off easily but I also don't want to test this theory either LOL! I'm looking forward to what's ahead.

P.S. While typing this I have been watching my cows playing in the paddock. This is another first! Usually they stand, lay down, eat grass and occasionally moo. It's very cute to see them playing and running around each other. It must be the appearance of the calf next door, it seems to have that affect on our animals.

#38 - I finally have my saddle!

It's finally home - my stock saddle! It was meant to be a swinging fender but they ordered the wrong one so after four weeks of waiting I was going to have to wait again. However I reconsidered the fender as I decided that clip safety stirrups were more to my liking (and I'm becoming impatient!). So now I have a standard stock saddle that is very comfy for me and it comes with and interchangeable medium gullet so should be perfect for Teddy. If it isn't I can always just change the gullet instead of getting a different saddle (which was my problem the first time).

I was all geared up to get home and go for a ride but it started pissing down from the moment I got on the highway and hasn't let up until now. But now it's verging on darkness so I will have to wait for another day. I have waited this long so a little longer wont kill me.

I also picked up a relatively cheap bridle so I could have something until I get mine back from Sam's; plus they are always handy to have around and it matches the new saddle (black this time where everything else I have is brown).

I cant wait to start training Teddy and myself in the saddle. Yippee!

# 37 - bareback riding

After a lovely morning I decided that I would go for a bareback ride around the property as I still don't have my replacement saddle yet.

I went to get the bridle and discovered they were all missing, then realised that Sam put them in her float when I had Teddy assessed by Pol and I forgot to get them so I decided to use the halter and lead rope instead. I am very lucky to have a friend like Sam as I used her float, round yard etc that day and she wasn't even there! Thank you Sam!

Anyway, I got Teddy and the old coffee table I use as a step and tried to jump on his back. Jump after jump after jump and I couldn't haul my fat arse up there. Teddy was patient and quiet and stood there waiting for me to get on his back but after all his patience I just couldn't make it. Nearly but not quite.

I knew that without the step it would be totally impossible as his back is level with my eyes. I have used the coffee table to get up in the saddle in the past and its fine because I had the stirrup to assist me. But bareback... well this was nothing like I remember it as a kid.

Jump up, hang across his back from my waist (if I was lucky, sometimes from just below the rib cage!) and try to get my leg over without slipping. It turned out to be impossible. Slip, jump, slip, jump.

How embarrassing! Even the horse was looking at me like, "Ok, come on just get up there."

That bloody saddle better arrive this week!

#36 -yielding forward while constantly on the move

Though I have a terrible flu I went out with Teddy today and he still managed to make me smile.

I have stepped it up to make sure that he is desensitized on the move and he is (I can flick stuff around and over him while he is walking and he doesn't care). So we did a very quick review and then we did yielding forward at a walk while I walked at his shoulder.

I faced forward and pointed where he was to head and if he didn't respond I tapped him on the rump, otherwise I laid the carrot stick below his withers as we walked. I think he was into it at first then he found it annoying and was swishing his tail and giving me the aggro look.

When I would say the word stop he would stop automatically but as I am at his shoulder he needed to be coached to yield his bum right around so his head was facing me directly. He was doing a good job.

I am noticing that he is yawning more which is a sign he is relaxed which is great, particularly for Teddy, however he is starting to look to eat grass. Last session he did, this time he just would reach down slowly as if seeing if I would stop him or not. I think this may be a sign he is bored. I have add the moving yield forward but will try to add a couple of extra things, all at once with three being the limit, and see how he goes.

My goal for our next session will be:

• Yield forward on the move
• desensitize at a trot
• Lateral flexion.

#35 - Teddy is bored so we are heading to the next phase

We took a bit of time off training over the past week because I really needed the break and had a lot on. But today Teddy and I went out and did a refresher of our work. Apart from Teddy playing up for a few minutes with catching (didn't last long at all) he was fine, but kept wanting to eat grass.

We went through the catching game; lowering of his head; touching him everywhere (he still has a thing about his muzzle being touched but he is improving); stopping on command; backing up (much better this time around); yielding front and hind quarters; the friendly game including the whip lashing around him, under him, behind him, over his face, neck, back, legs, bum and not moving; whip above his head and behind him like a helicopter and him not moving. Pretty much it was all easy if not boring for him. So on to the next phase we go.

Unfortunately the horsemanship trainer I just started working with was rescuing a horse and in the process broke her ankle so she will be out of action for quite a while, so I need to do some research and get to the next level on my own.

I'm sure we will be fine.

#34 - Baby cows move has really upset Teddy!

Poor Teddy! The neighbours cow had her calf today right beside our fence so Schapelle, Mercedes and Teddy watched on and have since claimed the little one as their own. But the calf hasn't fed all day so the neighbour has taken them away so she can milk the mum to get the calf to drink. This is a good idea as the mum's udders look like they are balloons about to burst!

The girls and Teddy watched on and walked beside the fence as they were being led away, unaware that they were going to be heading off to the other side of the neighbour's property. When it dawned on Teddy that the little calf was going out of sight he got so upset! He has been running up and down the fence line neighing out to them; running to the house and neighing to us, almost like he's trying to tell us something is wrong, then running back to the fence. He is still pacing, running and calling out as we speak. He is genuinely upset that the little wobbly legged calf is out of sight, the poor bub!

Hopefully the little calf will be OK and come back as even Schapelle and Mercedes are just standing there staring in that direction.

On a training note, once again Teddy has done a great job at training. He has been good to catch and halter, is calm, lowers his head when asked, stops at hand commands and respecting me and my space. He just needs to concentrate on the backing up signal a bit better but considering it's a new method that Pol Blane instructed and this is only his second go at it, so he is doing well. The only problem is that I look like a dickhead to the passing cars when they see me in the front paddock flapping my arms around trying to get the horse to step backward!

#33 - Teddy weighs in at 600Kg! What a fat guts!

Teddy and I have had a quiet, bonding couple of days. He's been moved about, groomed and pampered, received a few treats of carrot and has been taken off his feed as the grass around here is bumper! His weight was also done today and my estimate was incorrect by 100 kg! What a fat guts at 600 kg.

There is some flat weed around but there is nothing I can do about it now so I hope that he doesnt take a liking to it and make himself sick with stringhalt. There isn't a lot so I will just have to keep my fingers crossed.

#32 - Having a well deserved rest

What more can I say.

#31 - Pol Blane was great!

A long day ending with two injured swollen fingers (let go of the rope Tania!) and what resulted in a very useful afternoon.

Teddy loaded into the float fine and we headed to Gisborne where we used my friend Sam's round yard for the training/assessment. We had lunch with Pol and Deb while Teddy waited in a nearby paddock. As I was eating my minestrone soup I could see Teddy dancing around and heard him neighing to the neighbouring horses across the road, but over all he was fairly well behaved.

When we got him to the round yard at the bottom of the hill he was a little hyped up but I demonstrated the progress I had achieved with him for Pol and instantly got tips to make things better.

Pol Blane is a lovely person with excellent horsemanship skills who really knows her stuff. She can demonstrate exactly what she is trying to achieve and get results at the same time. She is calm, patient and attentive to the horse and owner and acknowledges a student for what they are; providing the necessary information to work and progress with.

The full assessment was done on the ground and in the saddle and it was determined that:

• Teddy is head shy to the extent that it is expected that he may have been hit in the face in his past (my poor boy!)
  
• He is also muzzle shy (knew that)
• He is very willing to learn and learns well
  
• He has the tell-tale signs of a poorly fitting saddle, resulting in past back problems (knew this) and which continues to have some minor influence on him, but mostly mentally
  
• He almost certainly has been ridden at some time by someone using spurs and this has caused him issues
• He has seen extensive use of a martingale or some similar tool which bulked up his neck and which he now carries with too tight muscles (I knew something was up with his neck, just couldn't work out what)
• He remembered the neighbours donkeys and was pleased to see them!
• He wants other horses around him (looks like I will have to get him a friend - maybe a donkey!)
• He's been worked, like most dressage horses have, in a tight frame that has to be corrected as he needs to loosen up in some ways and develop better back strength
  
• His polo training must have been extensive and this has resulted in him having a full steam ahead approach and nothing else. To the extend that he has to be put through relaxation techniques just to get him to walk under saddle. I need a horse who can walk with someone on him not bolt! - high priority
  
• He's had pivot training (could come in handy)
• He actually doesn't understand when to stop unless his reins are pulled on tightly (not a good technique)
• His past training and experiences have to be addressed before he will be calm enough to trail ride
• It should only take a few good sessions for Teddy and I to learn what is needed to get him to a trail riding stage
  
• We both learnt what is meant by self-loading today but Teddy isn't trained in it so he will be retrained at a later stage.
• I can't bend my middle finger properly as it's so swollen!
  

I will put Teddy through his new training methods straight away and work with him on the ground until my new saddle arrives. Hopefully by then it will be time to get in the saddle for us both and Pol will be available from now on to assist with training us.

#30 - Still doing well

We had another great session today. Teddy let me catch him easily, did back-ups and came forward well and learnt to stop when I put my hand up during figure 8's etc. I'm going to have to step it up a notch.

I'm nervous about tomorrow with Pol but alway looking forward to seeing Teddy do well. I hope Teddy gets in the float easily. Fingers crossed.

#29 - Eureka! Yay! We are getting somewhere

As I am having a week off work I haven't done much with Teddy over the last two days as I have been working quite late; leaving and returning from work in the dark. I was wondering how today was going to go as I walked out but I was really surprised.

Straight out into the paddock and Teddy came to me and let me halter him without running away! I couldn't believe it, Eureka! Finally he was showing some trust in me. Granted, it wasn't perfect and I can still see some apprehension in his eyes but at least he sees the halter as something he doesn't need to be so concerned about. And he knows he is going to get the best rubs and pats out of it so it must be worth his while.

As I have been told more than once that Teddy is dangerous I am determined to teach him all the safety rules I can from the get-go, so I've moved him on to the backing-up training phase. He did quite well at backing-up although it's all full instruction now, but I am working so I can just point a finger or give him a look and he will know when I want him to back up. I also tried him at one-step forward moving (only to take a step when ask, no more - no less). He also did fairly well at that too. It is only the first day so I was very happy and I am combining this training with all his other lessons depending on the day. The consistency will concentrate on the catching game and the backing up and one-step forwards.

All in all it was wonderful to see him so relaxed around the halter, totally calm and pleased to do what I asked - he was almost waiting for instruction!

When I get the opportunity I will get Steve to video the "after" phase so I can post a short before-and-after demo on Teddy's progress. Tuesday will also be interesting as Pol Blane will be assessing him.

#28 - We may have turned a corner

Teddy did very well today. I am a bit concerned that he thinks he is meant to run when I go to him, but I could be wrong. Never-the-less when he did run it was for about 5 minutes today and then he was ok (though I was doing all that power walking crouched and sideways! Ouch my poor thighs!)

Once he was beside me he got lots of pats and rubs with the halter and lead rope, scratches on the neck and kind words while letting me put the halter on over and over again when I asked.

He was a much more relaxed horse today and was actually very playful, probably more so then I have ever seen him. Very curious, gentle nibbles on my coat, playing games with his lips and giving me those big expressive eyes while following me around. He is still cheeky though but in a cute way. I really enjoyed being with him.

#27 - I will take the time it takes so it takes less time

Teddy anticipated the game today and I have refine it by reviewing what is being taught and played the predator much more effectively this time. It still took a while but slightly less time than it has done in the past. Teddy is still wearily but the fastest he got today was a trot and the last two send outs resulted in him coming straight back to me. I had some cut up carrots in my pocket so after the lesson/game he got some treats and I used the halter and lead rope (that which is doesn't like) and used it to rub over his back, bum, neck and sides (that he loved!)

I hope I venture into the paddock tomorrow and he thinks, "Here she comes with that great bum scratching thing!" instead of "Not that halter again I better run!"

But I will take the time that it takes so it takes less time in the future.

The nicest part of the whole session was I left the paddock, with Teddy following me to the gate, then I walked all the way to the gate that leads into the house and from the back gate Teddy neighed out to me. I turned back and he was waiting at the gate calling me back. I was thrilled!

I videoed day one of the catching game and I will video day seven and make a little movie of the progress.

#26 - trials and tribulations

After a day of carrots and relaxation for Teddy we did the catching game again this afternoon and it was a good 20 minutes of him trying his hardest not to comply and when he did give me both eyes I would turn away and he wouldn't follow me.

Steve was taping the whole thing and got fed up so gave up filming after this time. As soon as the video went off Teddy let me halter him. Then three more times after this but still he tested me each time.

It was a highly frustrating day that was about an hour long all up.

I hope Teddy is as tired as I am after following him around at a fast walking pace through muddy ground. He went in circles so quickly at one stage I was getting dizzy trying to keep my eyes on him. At least my thighs got a good workout.

#25 - The Catching Game is Bloody Amazing!

I got my PNH Catching Game dvd today and went straight to the instruction part (I'll watch the rest later) then went straight out into the paddock to try it after the first viewing!

I put a long lead on the halter and took it, along with my brother Bruce, out into the paddock. As soon as Teddy saw me he neighed and came straight over and I thought that was very sweet so I put out my hand to pat him. He backed up. I tossed the long lead at his arse! Woo Hoo! Did he chuck a spazz when I did that! He kicked out and ran like hell away from me through the paddock. I followed straight away and kept the pressure on him but all the time wishing I had a round yard (who needs a gym when you are chasing a horse around!) I told Bruce to wait behind to be safe. Teddy bolted around the whole paddock at full pelt for a couple of laps. I yelled out to Bruce that if Teddy got too close to hold his arms up at him and I recommended Bruce stay by the fence. He decided to stay on the inside of the fence with me.

Teddy bolted right towards him! Bruce's hands went up, he yelled "fuck me" then his gumboot got stuck in the mud and he tripped backward but regaining his balance just before falling into the mud. hehehe! I had to laugh! That would only happen to him! (and Crow if she were here!)

I kept the pressure on Teddy, going towards him making sure I was level with his withers when I could keep up or at least facing that way when I couldn't. He was running so fast he was sweating and lathering around the legs. His face was looking aways from me, his neck bulging at me but eventually he started to slow down even though I didn't, and there was less weaving about. I waited to see his near ear flick towards me and it did, then straight after he gave me one eye, and then his full face. At that very instant I turned and walked away. Teddy stopped and followed me! I looked at him from the corner of my eye and he looked puzzled. It was just like in the dvd! I walked over to him and he just stood there and put out his face for a pat. After the pat I kept walking and he walked along right by my side!

I sent him off again just to be sure - first he evaded, then the ear flick, then the eye, then both eyes and I quickly turned and walked away. He followed behind making sure his head was right at my side and held low. Teddy had caught me! I put the halter on in one attempt and he was totally fine about it.

Everything took all of 10 minutes! The first send out took about 6 minutes the second send out took not even 2 minutes. Bloody amazing!

I cant wait to do it again tomorrow!

#24 - Shapelle and Mercedes what in on the fun!

I walked into the paddock without anything in my hands and saw Teddy right up the other end of the paddock near the back fence. I decided that I would just leave him be and walk over to a tree stump near the front gate. Walking along, looking at the ground, I hear the thunder of hooves! I look up to find Teddy bolting up to me. I'm surprised but I just lean up against the stump and he comes to a screeching halt about 3 metres from me then starts prancing back and forth with his tail up in the air. I just lent back and enjoyed the display saying to him, "So who's a bloody show pony today then!" He eventually stopped some distance away and decided to eat grass - just like I wasn't there. He continued to eat and drifted a few more metres away. I watch him for a while then went for a stroll to the back of the paddock.

On my way back, for some reason Shapelle and Mercedes (our very shy cows) decided that they too wanted to hang out with me and started running to me mooing from across the paddock. I'd never seen them behave like this! Even when you have an apple for them they gingerly walk over to you to get it. But when they reached me this time they put their very wet noses on my hands to say hello. Teddy saw this and decided that he now wanted my attention as well so came straight over looking for pats. He even warned the cows to back off.

Whoever think that animals, particularly horses, dont get jealous, are kidding themselves!

Teddy Log #23 - Groundhog day - but in half the time

Today with Teddy was pretty much like an abridged and milder version of yesterday. The only difference was at the start he played with the white bucket for a while kicking it around, sticking his head into it, almost getting tripped up on it etc. So that was when I applied the pressure. He got a little narky, pinned ears back etc, but it was very half arsed. Then in a few minutes he let me pat him. The funny thing was as soon as I touched his cheek my mobile rang! DAMN!

Today I added some walking around and stopping, teaching him that when I put the carrot stick out to stand still. When I stop he has to too. He picked this up in a flash and even when I took the halter off I walked ahead and he followed me, I stopped and he stopped. He got big pats for that.

After I went in and came back to feed cows I went back over to him, all be it without the halter, and he was fine.

Another good ending.

Teddy Log #22 - Teddy took me on - and lost!

This afternoon I put on my gumboots (yes the pink ones!), my jacket and hat and I headed out into the rain and to Teddy's paddock with a bucket of feed, his halter and lead and my carrot stick (minus the string).

Teddy knows the white feed bucket when he sees it so he headed straight over but I put it on the other side of the little river that has formed between my neighbours property and our dam. This way it was out of his reach. I attempted to catch him but he played the same old evasive game, so I upped the ante quick smart and tipped the feed into his rubber trough and stood a few steps from it leaving a clear path for Teddy to get to it. He waltzed right over but before he could take a bite I blocked him with the carrot stick. He paced around, just out of reach, attempting to get to the feed but I continued to block him every time - this went on for a good 20 minutes. He wasn't giving in and never was I.

I talked sweetly to him the whole time, putting out the halter for him to sniff and nibble etc and telling him that if he were a wild horse he'd have a herd leader telling him when he could drink, eat and play with the girls so now he would have to contend with a new-improved leader in me. He was evasive and shifty by trying to pace rings around me, he tried to ignore me and walk away to get me to follow him, he pretended his attention was taken by a roo pouncing through the paddock but as soon as I looked in that direction he went for the feed. Still I took possession of the feed, talking sweetly too him, and tried to reassure him that I wasn't going to hurt him. I let him sniff the halter and lead etc. He wasn't getting the feed and I wasn't getting the halter on him or able to touch him in any way.

Teddy got fed up after 20 minutes and changed tack. He pinned his ears back and raised his head above me (he's huge compared to me). He was as threatening as he could be, showing me the whites of his eyes and turning his head to the side and staring me down with his ears back and body within inches of me flicking his head at me. But I stood my ground. I looked up at him and softly said, "I don't think so mate."

I continued to talk to him and put the halter out to him. After another 5 minutes of this I took the end of the lead and managed to softly stroked his cheek with it. He still had his ears back and looking at me like he was going to stomp me but he didn't pull away. I continued to stroke his face with the end of the lead rope. After a minute or two of this I allow him to have a mouthful of feed. When I blocked him for his second bite the evasive game started again, but this time only for a minute then he let me stroke him with the lead and then, eventually, my hand.

I wanted to keep the pressure on so I didn't allow him to eat until he let me drape the lead rope around his neck. This happened within a few minutes so I let him have another mouthful. Then I let him loose and stepped away. He went for the feed and I blocked him. He took a few steps back and just looked at me so I stroked his face with my hand, put the lead rope around his neck and put the halter on. I was talking sweetly to him this whole time and when the halter was on I rubbed him between the eyes (his favourite spot), then took the halter off and let him have some feed.

At this stage I took the carrot stick and backed him up away from the feed but he was in a new frame of mind and moved his head to me for a pat. I gave him one, haltered him again and led him to his feed, which he ate. I took the halter off and while he ate I rubbed him between the eyes. He was content.

I pick up the white bucket and my other things and walked to the gate, a fair distance from where he was eating. Then I went back to him with the halter in my hand. He just let me halter him, give him a pat and take the halter off again.

It ended on a good note and I feel Teddy understood it wasn't a bad experience after all. Tomorrow I will probably have to go through it all again. We will see. All I can be sure of is that I better get bloody good and reading his bluff or I could be in all sorts of trouble!

I'm sure I'll be fine.

Teddy Log #21 - Flooded and weighing up my options

Its raining so bad here that the place is awash, the dam is flooded, the run off to the lower properties is like a fast moving river, the cows and Teddy are in the back paddock drenched! Even though Teddy has a full winter combo on he must be soaked after all this none stop rain.

This rain has given me a bit of time to think about my best course of action with Teddy and my horse future. I have come to the final decisions.

Step One - I have decided to put an ad out to sell Teddy and see what happens. In the mean time I will love and work with him as normal and consider getting a schoolmaster for myself which can also be a companion for him. If the schoolmaster comes along while Teddy is with me I will work with the new horse and this will give Teddy some emotional rehab time (he clearly seriously needs this - I'm not sure how he got so messed up but I know how it feels so I can sympathise with him). I can also learn what I need to teach Teddy from the schoolmaster and then Teddy can benefit from that when I pass it on. Hopefully this will work and I can have the two horses on a permanent basis. Horses are herd animals after all so he should have a companion when I am not with him. However, if a loving, educated and suitable home comes along during this process I will consider it, but only with Teddy's best interests in mind. Deep down I still feel I can get us through this.

Step Two - I realise that at home Teddy is secure and sees me (somewhat) as his leader but not enough to trust that I will take care of him outside of his comfort zone. Therefore I will step up my own education and his training. I will ask more from him and put him in a lot more situations that he wont be comfortable in until he develops a higher level of trust with me. This will start tomorrow as I know that the rain will not be the most comfortable of environments for either of us and I am willing to get cold and wet to ease him step by step out of his comfort zone and then step by step back into it with me. I think this will be a true test of whether Teddy's issues are what I suspect, but if they are not I will have more insight into how to move with his future.

Step Three - I will use the week I am having off to do a riding refresher and work with an instructor to find my seat again and build my confidence before getting back on Teddy. It's been a while and I would have liked to have done this with Teddy, and preferably on my own, but I think it will be smarter to do this away from Teddy and come back to him in control. Otherwise he will feel the vibe and feed off it.

I hope this all works. At least I feel I am giving Teddy, me and any possible future owner of Teddy every opportunity.

Teddy Log #20 - off for a ride... but NO!....

I woke this morning all geared up to go for a ride. Teddy was wonderful to get ready etc, I saddled him and checked that all was fitting correctly and it seemed fine. After saddling up I decided that seeing as he is always "on the job" when I put the bridle on him that it wouldn't be fair to ride in his own paddock as this is his sanctuary, so I decided to walking him down the road to the riding centre at the reserve.

Robinson Reserve is totally equipped for horses, is free to residence and I can literally walk him there within a couple of minutes so I thought this would be perfect... boy I was wrong.

Walking along the road we had trucks pass us at 80km an hour and Teddy was totally cool about it. None of the cars or the new surrounds fazed him at all. The only thing he took a second glance at was the weird totem pole thing at the front gate of a neighbours place.

When moving the branches from in front of the entrance gate of the reserve, again Teddy was totally cool about it. But when we walked into the reserve and Teddy saw the other horses, the jumps in the paddocks, the menage etc, he totally freaked out! He started spooking at everything he saw, jumping around, running from one side of me to the other, backing up, rearing a little of the ground like he was bunny hopping ... it was like he was in a hostile war zone and he wasn't prepared to fight.

I know horses are flight animals but there wasn't anything to be worried about. The menage and the 3 other horses were very far away, to the extent that I couldn't work out if they were being handled by men or women, yet Teddy was making a total pork chop of himself. It took me a while to calm him and I was thankful I wasn't on his back (I didn't want to be surprised if he flipped out on the road - a smart move as it turns out!). When he stopped prancing but remained on full alert we walked up to the people and I went in the menage with two women on ponies. I had to walk him around until he calmed right down, trying to act casual while chatting to the older guy lungeing his horse.

Teddy did calm for the most part but it took about 20 minutes and he was still on full alert. By this time I had lost confidence with getting on his back. Also all of his prancing around made his saddle settle and I discovered that the pommel was too low down on his withers for my liking. I will be returning the saddle for one with a better fit.

When we got home - literally the very moment we walking into our drive way, Teddy let out a sigh and was as relaxed and as calm as can be; head down, swanking along the drive by my side and licking his lips.

I should have realised that the pacing he did when he first got here was a good indication that he had difficulty with change and I should have eased him into it more; perhaps just taking him to the reserve in a halter and lead and played some games with him. Or maybe just riding him at home. I guess I have to live and learn. And I also have to consider the fact I want him as a trail riding horse which may prove a challenge.

I'm sure Teddy came into my life for a reason, that we are meant to help each other, but it's days like today that I wonder if I have bitten off more than I can chew.

At least I know that the saddle has to be returned.

Ah well, I love my big punky la la horse so I'm not giving up on us yet!

Teddy Log #19 - ready to ride! Well I am ...

Have bought a swinging fender stock saddle, riding boots and helmet now so I have all that I need to ride. Teddy has a bit more familiarization to do with the area and a check from the saddle fitter, but once that is done YIPEE!

I cant wait.

Teddy Log #18 - He should be in movies!

What a performer Teddy is! I went out to the back paddock yesterday to find him standing by the fence. I call him from the gate but he doesn't move which is very unusual seeing that he is often on the go. He looks at me and sings out a little neigh but doesn't budge from his spot. I think it's interesting that he's calling out to me but not moving. As I get closer I pull a carrot out of my pocket. His favourite! Teddy see's it, nods his head in my direction but still does not move an inch.

I wonder if he is alright and walk straight over to him. He's not evasive like he can be - just stands there. He's not even reacting at all. I offer the carrot and he takes a bite, but again he doesn't move his feet or body. The next bite I hold out of his reach. He stretches his neck but doesn't move his feet and doesn't get a bite of the carrot. He just stands there looking all, "Ah well no carrot for me then".

I start to freak, OMG he's injured himself! He cant walk! He must of hurt his leg! I check him all over but cant see anything. I straighten his rug which is covered in mud and which he hates me adjusting and would normally do a 180 about face, I think that maybe he's hurt himself rolling - he swishes his tail in disapproval but doesn't move. You're kidding - he must be bad.
He reaches his head around for another bite of carrot. Again I put it out of reach and he takes 1 pathetic step to get it. OMG he must be suffering the poor boy!

His ears are forward, his head is low, he's breathing fine... not exactly the signs of suffering. Well lets see then shall we... I walk away to the back fence. After a minute he takes a few steps towards me. He doesn't look like he's limping but maybe he's too slow, I think.

The neighbour in the property behind me pulls up in a car on their land. Teddy pricks his ears up and watches them. He looks find but I think that maybe that lazy stance is due to soreness. I decide that the only way I'm going to find out without causing issue is to ignore him, so I walk right away. He's still watching the neighbours but I catch him sneak a peak. I walk all the way to the front of the paddock and lean against a tree and wait.

I wait 5 minutes before he gives in and starts walking towards me. A nice leisurely walk mind you, no limping, no stiffness, just that cute horsey sway they have. Half way to me he sees me watching and stops and eats grass, almost like he was pretending he really hadn't moved!
I chuckle to myself and pretend to look the other way but watch him out the corner of my eye. His head pops up and he starts walking towards me again stopping about two body lengths away. The whole time he looks perfectly healthy and fine. I watch as he eats a semi circle of grass around me. I say, "Hey Teddy" his eyes shift in my direct as he continues to eat grass, but I get the distinct feeling that if he could speak he would have said, "Oh, its you, I hadn't noticed."

I finally move and give him a pat on the cheek. He lifts his head as if to say "A scratch here would be nice," so I give him a rub between the eyes.

Give the horse an Oscar! He played me like a fiddle!

Teddy Log #17 - saddling up

Teddy and I had a wonderful day trying his new saddle on for size and getting about all geared up. He was excellent in everyway and has even convinced Steve that he's really a 15.3 hh sweetheart. I cant wait to see what happens next.

Teddy Log #16 - wet, wet, wet

what more can I say. We slosh about in the rain but the best think is Teddy seeks me out more and more. He come to the front gate now when I pull up in the car and yesterday i wasn't paying attention to him, just talking to Steve and the dogs and he neighed out to me!

what an attention seeker! LOL!

Teddy Log #15 - Video of PNH games 1,2 & 3

Welcome to the first Teddy video log!

To make this video I took Teddy to our front paddock were I usually work with him as I get the commuting traffic in the evening and this is something I want him to get used to.

It was filmed by my partner Steve yesterday evening in the bitter cold (my fingers were so numb and I'm layer upon layer under that coat!).

Steve has serious trust issues with Teddy so it was good of him to do this for me.

I have edited the video but only the parts that aren't needed. All the work and errors we make are in the full length version at our website.

Preview below - to view 10 minute video go to www.steveandtania.com and click on Smarty Pants Productions.


Hints, tips, feedback is most welcome.

Teddy Log #14 - treatment going well

Kerry came and he is doing a lot better but still some why to go. I also went and tested some more saddles and I think I will go for the stock saddle. Just which one as they are all very expensive.

Teddy Log #13 - gezz he's a clever horse!

I had some undemanding time with Teddy and as soon as he saw me he wanted to be with me, walking straight up to me, which made me feel good. I went and sat on a tree and he came over looking for more pats, though still watchfully, and was busy sniffing my gum boots etc. He wandered off to the side and when I didn't follow he stopped and kept looking back at me. I just talked to him and he just stayed where he was but glanced back every minute or so.

I decided to go to the back of the property to see if I could find any roo's and he followed right behind me but wasn't in my face. And then off in the distance I saw him catch sight of the feed bucket I left on the other side of the front gate - so off he went. I didn't follow, just observed.

I have never seen a horse stretch his neck over a fence as far as Teddy did! He finally got his mouth on the bucket (just), picked it up and dragged it to him. What nimble lips he must have. I went over and took it from him leaving it on the other side of the fence so i could unlatch the gate and he got hold of the bucket again and moved it back! I just said "give it to me smarty" and he put it down. I unlatched the gate and stuck his head in to sneak a mouthful. I know it was naughty of him but it was funny!

It was a feel good horse day for me even if it was in the rain.

Teddy Log #12 - Play time

Headed out after work to Sunbury to check out some saddles. I think I'm more confused than I was before all this! LOL! No I was really just trying them on for size and with the size of my bum that was a good idea. I am looking for something average but OK and to tick boxes until I know what I am doing with Teddy and how things will pan out with him. It seems a wintec is the most likely as they are interchangeable gullets that will help with whatever fit.

After that, when I got home I went out and played with him in the little light that I had left. I can get him to play as long as I don't have a halter in my hand. At one stage he did get fed up with me and walked off. I got him to come back and got him following me in spirals. He was very cute about it. I took out a carrot and tempted him with it but he would not more his feet - trying once again to be the boss - so the more I moved away the more he stretched and stretched that long neck of his and then he went "Nope I'm not budging". When he did I gave him a nibble.

I know some people will say that playing with food isn't the way but I initially had him without it and then I think it was a good tool to keep him engaged.

It was a short and sweet play but positive none-the-less.

Teddy Log #11 - I did it my way

Ok, well the catching was an issue again. Forward, retreat, forward, retreat. 45 minutes later I got him to relax by my side and then I put the halter on. He was a bit nervous but fine. Simply led him around with the halter lead loose and did not let him past my shoulder or eat grass etc. I stopped each time he needed correction and just let him have a think about it after putting him in the position i wanted him - which was basically a step or two backward. I took him near the road so the cars could go past and just let him deal with it and have a think about it. He was pretty good really; lowering his head and getting a pat. I would watch until his bottom lip slackened then move on.. A long session but worth while. Gave me hope in him.

Will look up some techniques for catching for tomorrow.

Teddy Log #10 - Fearful horse may be the wrong horse for me

My Teddy is not the same horse that I bought, to the extent that the person I took with me to buy him, a horse rider/trainer/breaker/dressage/show person etc with over 30 years experience, asked me if I thought that he may have been drugged when I bought him.

I know deep down in my heart that he is a sweet and gentle guy but he just seems to be fearful and fretting more and more. He is started to show some unpredictable tendencies which concern me.

I searched the register and spoke to his breeder; the person who had him 9 years then sold him to the person I bought him from (the latter only had him 4 months). I believe what the breeder was saying to me as I think that she would have nothing to gain from telling me lies. By all accounts Teddy should be a well adjusted horse with extensive dressage, polo and jumping experience and no vices.

But since I've have him (3 months) I discovered that his shoes were not properly down giving him soreness in his frog and some lameness, which I am correcting. My farrier even asked if he was previously done by a qualified farrier! He also has girth, neck and back soreness from an ill fitting saddle that even I could see didn't fit when I went there. She also gave me his rugs that don't fit and he's gained weight since I've had him! I think he needs a companion even though she claimed his was a solo horse, as he passes and runs around a lot. He is also fearful for reasons unknown, which is my biggest concern.

I could take him back to the person I bought him from and demand my money back and have two people who could verify his issues, however I am not going to return him to that kind of treatment. He deserves better.

He may need a companion, better training or an understanding person and I will continue to try to do this but I have concerns that I will go to a great deal of time and expense for little gain. I am at a loss in so many ways about this problem.

What I have decided to do for now is to work with him much more extensively every day. Luckily I have a very supportive partner who will take on all the other things around the house while I do this. I will see if I can get him through this fretting and fear and at the same time look for an old school master to either be his companion or to have him learn from, or sell him on.

I really love my Teddy bear but I cant justify the expense of a horse that doesn't meet my requirements.