May 2010 Update

Carl and Suzanne Thurgood took the time to update us on their experience with the horses during their first couple of weeks back at the Ranch in mid- to late-May. Here's some good information to keep in mind:

Hi all -

We wanted to give a quick report on the new horses. We have been able to be up at the ranch the past two weekends, and have had the chance to do a little riding. Here is a brief overview of what we are learning about our new additions as well as updates on our tried and true horses.

Keena - Keena will be with us one more summer. She is quite old and is showing the wear and tear of a long and useful life. The vet has said that it is OK to ride her, but the rides should not be difficult and riders should not be large. Let's just keep in mind her many years of wonderful service to the Land Company, and treat her with consideration and respect.

Pare and Flint - Pare and Flint are continuing on as usual. Flint has his normal relaxed attitude and is great for any rider. Pare still has her spunk and fun attitude, and is great with anyone for a walk, but can get a little wound up and feisty after a little loping. Maybe a little more experienced rider.

Jack - Jack is a big beautiful paint. He loves to be the leader, and has a faster confident walk. He seems to want to test out his rider at the beginning of the ride to see if he can go where he wants to go, but with a little firmness he will give his rider a great ride. Loping is fun and controllable, but keep in mind this is a strong horse. He has not been worried about water, big trees, or really anything as we have tried to take him through a variety of different situations.

Seana - Seana (reddish brown with a pretty white stripe down her nose and one white sock) is young and getting used to her new place and situation. She is a little nervous about branches in her face and crossing streams, but with each ride she seemed more and more settled. Seana is very eager to please her rider and wants to do what is being asked, but sometimes gets a little confused. As mentioned by Gen, she has been trained to draw rein rather than neck rein which is just a little different. If you are on her and she seems a little confused, just gently reach down and take the rein on the side that you want to turn, and give it a little pull in the direction you want to go. She is a great follower for now, and will not lead yet as she is still figuring out her area and gaining confidence. She has a good personality, and never seems to get uptight even when trying new things. Her lope is smooth and nice. Seana is a little hard to catch once in the corral, but should settle down more and more as she gains confidence and experience. I don't know that I would put a beginner on her to start with, but just fine for intermediates.

Please let us know if there are questions. As always, treat the horses with gentleness and respect and they will be great.

See you all at the Ranch!

(This is Genn again:) I'll take some pictures soon and get them posted to the blog. Thanks!