COLT STARTING SERIES (Part 1 of 7)
In this first session on colt starting, I am working on getting that first touch with a colt that hasn't been handled. The first touch is critical - it sets the tone for the relationship going forward. It lets the horse know that he doesn't need to be petrified of me.
In this foundational lesson, I want my colt to learn that he gets a release when: 1. he gives to pressure, 2. when he faces me, and 3. when he's close to me.
I like to use a rope and a solid saddle horse as tools to help me when I'm starting a colt. Once I have my colt roped, I'll let him run around the pen a bit, being careful not to apply pressure at this point. Then, when I know he's going to stop, I'll ask him to turn toward me. When his eyes come to me, I'll release the pressure of the rope. Over time, I'll make the distance between me and the colt smaller and smaller. If he tries to bolt, I'll just stop him again and release pressure when he turns to me. I want to teach him that when he faces his fears, they go away. When I can get close to him, he stays calm in my presence, and he lets me touch him without running off, I'll take the rope off and call it a day.
Remember: TIMING is everything because your RELEASE is what is teaching the horse. I like to make sure I am searching for every opportunity to give the horse a release so that he'll be motivated to keep trying.
Be sure to watch the rest of this video series to learn how to progress from the first touch to the first ride!
Until next time, may God bless the trails you ride,
- Ken McNabb