Angel is finally cantering!

Angel is almost 3 years old, and we have finally begun the canter work. After only a few sessions,  she is learning to relax and develop rhythm, while also learning collection and softness at the faster gait.   See videos below for the progression to this point.

First experience with trail competition skills!

As you can see, Angel is not bothered by the log dragging behind her, or the rope rubbing against her legs & hindquarters.  This can be tricky for many horses, but 3 year old Angel is handling it like a pro thanks to the great foundation she has received from Dudley!

Groundwork to First Rides

The methods of Natural Horsemanship make the
progression from Groundwork to First Rides a remarkable experience.
Dudley & "Angel", a 2 year old palomino filly.

Laying the foundation with Groundwork

Using a surcingle as an introduction to the cinch.

Then.... the saddle.

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First Rider- Angel is now 2, and the work in the saddle has begun.
After practicing mounting and dismounting several times, MJ is now in the saddle with Dudley nearby in case Angel jumps away or becomes frightened.  In that case he would pull MJ off to safety.  We will just take a few steps to help Angel become comfortable with balancing a rider on her back.  During the first rides Angel is taking her cues from Dudley, and with each future ride she will gradually learn to respond to rein, leg and voice cues from her rider.  We use a rope hackamore so as not to pull on her mouth inadvertently, graduating to a snaffle bit in the later sessions.

First Solo Ride
We take it slowly, introducing each new phase once she is comfortable with the previous steps.

Walk & Trot
We graduate to the big arena once she is comfortable in the round pen, using an experienced horse partner for comfort. 
This was Angel's 8th ride, but her first time in the big arena.