Rooster seems to have lost a few pounds since his arrival, which I'm OK with. He was a little pudgy. I was surprised to receive such a well-fed animal just months off of the range and had anticipated an underweight, scraggly thing I'd need to get weight on. In fact, Rooster was just the opposite.
As you may have noticed, I haven't spent much time under saddle with him lately. I felt after the last couple rides, I needed to step back and continue his ground work and confidence level in me as he just didn't feel quite ready. After our field trip last week, he really impressed me and I think it's time we get back in the saddle again. He's come a long way and it's amazing to think how wild he was just over a month ago.
Yesterday was the first time Rooster has actually whinnied at me. Usually my other horses knicker when I come outside and Rooster is quick to follow up with a call. This time, Rooster looked right at me as I walked outside and let out a big whinny. I went out to see him and his feeder still had plenty of hay... so it wasn't food-motivated. I have to think he's finally starting to enjoy my company and look forward to our visits and training sessions. It's a another huge milestone for us.
