The Mustang Diaries: Atlas's First Saddling

Yesterday marked a significant milestone in Atlas's journey: his first time being saddled. Atlas has shown remarkable progress in his groundwork, accepting the surcingle and desensitization exercises with surprising ease. Yet, the saddle, with its unfamiliar weight and daunting presence, presented him with a new challenge.

We started with a walk, then progressed to a trot, and finally, the moment I had been anticipating, a canter. He let out a few bucks in protest at the first few canter transitions as he was getting used to the feeling of the saddle moving with him at a quicker pace. We worked in both directions, allowing him to adjust to the feel of the saddle and the balance of the weight. Gradually, his gait became more confident, more fluid. His movements were smooth, his transitions clean, and his overall attitude one of growing confidence and relaxation.

Watching Atlas move was a testament to the hours of patient groundwork, the building of trust, and the careful introduction of each new element. The initial bucks, though a moment of uncertainty, served as a reminder that progress is not always linear. It is a journey of understanding, patience, and a willingness to adapt. More than just a successful first saddling, yesterday represented a significant leap forward in our partnership and a milestone in Atlas's journey.

A little bucking protest