FOURTH DAY OF CLASS

Photo A Wow!~ Only lesson 4. It seems as if I've been with Fritz much more than that. I take a moment to say hello before we begin. Each lesson needs to start with assurance and safety for him.

Photo B Again, I start with familiar lessons. Fritz may become too emotional to connect right at first but asking for something already taught allows him to gain control over himself quickly.

Photo C Once he gains control of his feet, I review sacking him out. I throw things on him simulating the saddle, tighten things around him simulating the girth and slide things over his head simulating the bridle and reins. He does great!

Photo D Then we're on to bridle work, ground-driving from a rider's position. This way, I do not scare him or harm his mouth because I can more easily follow his movements.

Photo E This produces a wonderful feel in the rein and a great connection between Fritz and I as we learn to move together.

Photo F Before we end today's session, I introudce Fritz to the squirt bottle. By filling it with plain water, I can prepare him for fly spray without wasting pricey liquid. He hardly moves at all as I spray him all over.

Photo G In fact, he wants a drink so we have some for just that purpose.

Photo H When I remove his bridle, Fritz lays down and rolls. A fitting end to another good lesson. This continued slow progress, always focusing on the simple connections, will produce an awsome riding horse in Fritz someday.