The Mustang Diaries: Sunny - Groundwork Check In

Sunny's groundwork is coming along very well in the last week. She is beginning to lead much easier. She anticipates my cues, her head lowered and ears forward, focused on the subtle shifts in my posture and the gentle pressure of the lead.

Beyond the basics, we've delved into more complex exercises that have further solidified her skills. Her ability to yield her hindquarters, a crucial element of suppleness and body control, is developing beautifully. With a shift in body language directed at her hip, she steps away from the pressure and disengages by crossing her inside hind over her outside hind. This movement not only improves her physical flexibility but also fosters a deeper understanding of spatial awareness and body language.

Lunging, initially a challenge, has transformed into another avenue for communication. Sunny now willingly responds to my cues and body language, maintaining a consistent gait and circle. More importantly, she understands the concept of yielding her hindquarters while lunging, showcasing a growing understanding of body control and my ability to guide her from a distance. This exercise not only improves her fitness but also enhances her responsiveness to my commands, building a solid foundation for future training.

Sending Sunny back and forth along the fence line is a new skill that she is developing. This exercise requires her to focus, respond quickly, and maintain a consistent gait while changing directions. It challenges her mentally and physically, fostering a sense of discipline and responsiveness.

The most exciting development is her growing understanding of following pressure while wearing a halter and lead. This is a crucial step towards future mounted work, as it teaches her to bend her body in response to lateral pressure. Instead of blowing up at the feeling of the lead around her hocks and being asked to turn outward from me, Sunny quickly responds and figures out how to get herself out of that situation by following the lead.