The Mustang Diaries: Atlas Day 3&4

Tuesday was Atlas's 4th day with us out of holding. We had to separate him visually from Hades almost immediately by covering the panels between their corrals with canvas. These boys were so inseparable that getting their attention or even safely mucking out their corrals was nearly impossible, as they only wanted to stand next to each other no matter what. I was curious and went through their paperwork, though they were not herd mates as they were not rounded up on the same day, they came from the same HMA (both rounded in September of 2020), and they have the same dates for all shots, trims, and other vet work since. This leads me to believe that these two have been together for a long time. What a coincidence that they both ended up at the same home!

After the panel covers went up, both boys had a significant change in attitude. Hades is more fearful and reactive, but has made immense progress and will eat hay from my hand. While Atlas, on the other hand, I'm almost convinced was never even wild! This boy is not afraid of people, and I was able to get his tag off on day 3 and halter him on day 4. I can also already scratch all over his neck, shoulders, down onto his back, and between his front legs. This boy won't even flinch!

The only downside to his bravery is that I cannot rely on his fear for safety. He doesn't seem to back down and has no problem walking directly at me. He has displayed some aggressive tendencies, such as gritting his teeth, pinning his ears, and trying to kick out with his front feet while I'm hand-feeding him hay. I'm weary of him trying to charge or run people over, so for now, Joe and I tag team mucking and feeding time.

Hoping to get Atlas in the roundpen soon to establish personal space and boundaries.