Just came up from breakfast with Violet. I sat with her for 10 minutes or so then started the scratching routine. She accepting my touch much easier this morning and I did not have to disguise my hand. I always approach while sitting on the ground and rub her forehead and stroke her forelock. I can easily mover to her ears and eyes. Then down to her cheeks and up her neck along her mane, down the shoulder and on up to her withers. She is already looking better that she did last Sunday when she arrived, but still she is so bony. But she is on the road to recovery. What a gift!
Went back down with Jill to show her Violet. We did the scratching thing again then we played a little. She was very engaging and seemed to have fun. Playful little thing. I did the same thing and kept her away from the food and water. Ending the game is always me relaxing and picking at the food. She would then come in and I would allow her to eat. She loves to stand with me now while I am chatting with others. Our voices don't seem to bother her as much. I can now stand next to her and scratch her. I had my arms around her neck rubbing her and she was completely content. I can’t even put into words how meaningful this experience or what’s its doing for my horsemanship.
Bottomline: if you ever have a chance to gentle a young horse and you have the time an space, then do it, or partner with some one and do it together. It’s so worth it.
Later I wiped her all down with fly spray. Terry and Heidi said that they rubbed on her too. She is such a friendly little girl!
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