Suzanne and Othon Garcia own two beautiful Kiger Mustangs named Dorado and Bolero. Kigers are a very special type of mustang. Click here to learn more about Kiger Mustangs. Did you watch the Dreamworks movie "Spirit"? "Spirit" was a real Kiger mustang. His sire is the foundation stallion for the Kiger's...his name is Steen's Kiger. Steen's Kiger sired another stallion named Silverado. Silverado is Dorado's sire...so Spirit (or Donner as he was named by the breeder) would be Dorado's uncle. So you can see, these are some very special horses.
Suzanne and Othon love their horses dearly, but desperately wished that they could haul them in a horse trailer so that they could go trail riding with their friends. Unfortunately, due to some very traumatic trailer experiences in their past, Dorado and Bolero absolutely refused to get near the trailer. Different trainers tried different methods to try to teach the horses to load, but these experiences did nothing but leave the horses even more fearful than before. But then, Suzanne happened to see Chelsie working with horses at a clinic. She was very impressed by her gentle manner and her training methods. So, she asked Chelsie to help her with her trailer loading problem. Chelsie happily agreed to hold a trailer loading workshop at Suzanne's home. Here are some pictures and notes from the workshop:
Othon and "Dorado"
(It's pretty easy to see how he feels about this horse!)
Special Thanks to Matt Santos Photography and James Hait for providing these great photos.
Suzanne and Othon sharing their trailer loading troubles with the audience before the workshop began.
"Dorado"
Chelsie begins by playing with the horses using obstacles to help build their confidence and trust in her as a leader.
"Bolero's" confidence is already growing and he is demonstrating some playful curiosity!
As the day progressed, the horses developed more and more confidence as Chelsie practiced "advance and retreat" principles.
Chelsie strongly believes that it is very important for the owner to be able to accomplish the tasks as well. Here, Chelsie is spending time teaching Suzanne how to communicate effectivly and load her horses by herself.
Mission accomplished!
Confident, calm....
and ready to go trail riding!!!!
We extend our hearty thanks to Suzanne and Othon for inviting us to their beautiful property to play with their fabulous Kiger Mustangs! It was a great experiance for all!
Don't forget to reward the slightest try.
When he would get worried or nervous, Chelsie would encourage him to come back out. He began to realize that no one was going to slam the door shut on him. He gained confidence because he knew that if he needed to get out, he'd be able to.
Of course, lot's of lovin' is always important!
Before long, both horses would load with confidence, stand inside the trailer with the door open, and unload calmly. This new found confidence will carry over into all aspects of their lives!
"Bolero"
Notice "Bolero's" ear...pointing right a Chelsie. He's saying, "I'm listening."
Helping your beloved horses overcome their fears can be a very powerful experience.
"Bolero" is now looking to Suzanne for leadership, which she is learning to provide.
Trailer Loading Workshop 10-20-07
