A number of people ask us what training Nicole did to capitalise on the increased co-operation she got from Dylan when his diet was changed. So here is what she sent us:

"What we tried

- friend put him on lead rope & led us on small 20 min hacks! 

- then after doing same routes we dropped the lead rope and she would walk at the side. Then we progressed to her walking behind

- my instructor walked on foot & gave me some tips. When he backs up, I was tap him on shoulder until he stopped. Really important to get timing right.  

If he tried to rear or spin. Lift one arm up in air.  So one hand is up, the other in normal position. Both these things really helped. The arm up is really good if your horse is quick/spins etc. 

 

My instructor also got me to contact EquiFeast as she said he was still not right. 

 

After speaking to Malcolm, we changed his diet and haven't looked back.

He just had a change in attitude. Yes, he would still try to nap at times but he was now listening and willing to work with me. He seemed happier in himself and instead of spinning, he would stop. I would take a few minutes to let him process and ask him to go again and he did. He really started to feel less anxious about things.

We continued with getting someone to walk on foot on hacks, then getting them to go behind and  let Dylan go in front. We also got him to start leading in company. Taking it slowly & building his confidence. He leads really well now.

Then built it up to taking him out alone on rides he knew best. I let him eat some forage at times to make it a nice experience. 

He is now hacking solo & we continue to build his confidence but the changes in him are amazing. I truly believe that getting his diet right was the turning point. EquiFeast feed has really worked for us.

Time & patience is also a big key. I never got annoyed or told him off. For me, it's always been making sure he is OK in himself.  

We also do a lot of in hand work including a bit of liberty now. This has really helped deepen our relationship

I also recommend to keep a daily log, just a one liner. It's great tool to be able to refer to & see progress."

Nicole