2-Month-Old Dyana's First Trailer Loading Experience

After lots of time working on connection with Dyana, it was time for us to learn something new so we headed to the trailer for the first time.

There are a couple differences working with a foal than an adult horse that I should call out. First of all, I use the rope around her butt - something I would never use with a fully-grown horse. When working with a foal this is a very important handling technique as it avoids putting full pressure on the neck which is still more delicate. It is used in partnership with light pressure on the poll from the halter but helps provide a safer experience.

The second difference is that I move from my position more with Dyana. With an adult horse I never "change" but that is also because I expect that horse to have a much better understanding of pressure. For a foal I need to modify my ask from time to time to help clarify as my body language may not be as clear since the angles are different and the vantage point of me being above eye level changes the dynamic.

I was very proud of Dyana because after only one hesitant attempt, she proves she is confident enough to approach without hesitation on follow-up attempts. Notice how I also give her time to sniff and explore while focusing on keeping her head aimed and pointed where I want her to go, but I still have to be patient.