I trailered Jetta up north to a boarding stable to visit the equine dentist. We arrived as scheduled, but had to wait an hour for our appointment. I took advantage of the time to play with her in their big covered arena, showing her the jumps, the tarps, tires, tractors, and equipment laying around. She took it all in stride--no big deal. I did some ground work with her, lunging her and asking her to yield and follow a feel. She is super smart and willing to learn. She now lunges pretty well on the 12' lead and is even learning voice commands for walk and trot. I will start her on the regular lunge line tomorrow.
She handled seeing the vet like a pro. I know as a race horse she has been through some of this kind of stuff before, although this was the first time her teeth have been taken care of. She had a wolf tooth that needed to be pulled, one cap chip, and lots of sharp points to be filed. The dentist also did bit seats so she will be comfortable with the bit. I won't ride her for another week or so while the girth itch is clearing, but we'll be ready when it is healed! She is now vaccinated and ready for action.
I really like this girl. She seems quiet and kind and sweet. Yesterday she finally decided she could take a horse treat from my hand. Actually six of them! She has since taken a piece of apple as well. When I first brought her home, she was much too shy to take anything by hand, but I think she is relaxing and deciding I might be OK.
I think she's a keeper. I do want to ride her before I make a final decision, but I am sure hoping she is as nice under saddle as she is on the ground. If so, it's a done deal.
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