Young Horse Education- Mental Availability vs Physical Obedience

"Just" a horse standing in front of an open gate...

When I met this two-year-old Andalusian he was bolting off, kicking, biting, and striking when led by his owner.
His answer to everything was to get big, flamboyant, and have his legs go in four different directions at the same time.
He was literally trying to climb out of the round pen the first few times I did sessions with him.
He saw no value in the human and was very defensive towards them, trying to avoid them at all costs.
He had no ability to think through any scenario, therefore everything and anything was overwhelming.
Because his mind was everywhere except where his body was, he was dangerous, because he would literally run through or into things for lack of being able to see them.
Did I ever critique him? No.
Did I ever judge the way he was emotionally responding? No.
Did I ever chase him, drive him, or try to teach him a lesson? No.
My only goal was to create mental availability. Why?
Because if he could first acknowledge my presence near him, he could learn to let go of defensive towards my communication. Then I would have a chance to influence where his mind was focused, in turn affecting the physical behaviors he offered so he could understand what worked and those behaviors that did not, without it evoking fear.
Did we give him time? Yes.
Did we adapt so that the information offered to him was appropriate for his capacity in the individual session? Yes. How often did I work with him? Once or twice a week for several months.
How is he today? A completely changed horse.
No more bolting, fleeing, being overwhelmed by the world. Now curious when something new changes, searching for how the human is asking something rather than avoiding or becoming defensive, is willing to keep trying, finds a "safe place" in being near the human, and offers physical softness. He is now able to do everyday tasks whether at liberty or on the rope in an uneventful, non-emotionally stressed manner.
Setting the horse up for success...

Have you heard about the upcoming learning opportunity? All new exclusive access to weekly LIVE videos with Q & A click here to learn more