|
Diane adopted Zottara at the late summer, 1999, adoption at Burns, Ore. Diane
spotted Zottara earlier in the week and was at the adoption at 5:30 AM to make
sure she had her bidder's number and got her bid placed. Fortunately
most of the attention was on the Steens Mountain Kigers being offered the previous day, so Zottara, a
very Sorraia-like horse out of Beatty Butte was not in the heavy bidding.
Diane acquired "Z" and her foal and brought them to California.
In November, 1999, it was time to wean the foal and Diane wanted to get started
gentling "Z." She brought her over to KBR in order to use the mustang pen and
facilities. The mentors also gave her pointers as she started her adventure.
Diane primarily used John Sharp's pole method to get started. In a short while
she could get her hands all over "Z" and was starting to pick up her feet.
By the 4th day she could be haltered in an open pen (never had to use the chute) and Diane led her from the mustang
pen and across the stable to the round corral.
By the 6th day, "Z" was ready to try the horse course. Patty and Mary took CJ out
to "demonstrate" the obstacles. "Z" stalled out for an brief moment before crossing
the wooden bridge, then settled down to tackling every one of the obstacles, including
walking over culverts, up and down the stairs and even through the scary pit!
"Z" displays a quiet sensibility, but is also a bright mare who is very eager to please. She learns
fast so she and Diane will probably go far.
More images and accounts will be posted as her gentling proceeds.
|
Haltering is a breeze
Enjoying a nice scratch
Learning to pick up feet
|
