Shadow is now one of the first to seek out cuddles and affection, these small steps show me he feels confident enough to leave the safety of the herd and seek out human affection from me (a relative stranger).
I decided to see how Shadow would react to a bridle; Lunar led him into the training field and he came straight over and waited for the lead rope to be attached. I showed him the bridle and he froze; his eyes were full of fear and he threw his head in the air and ran. I followed him and gave plenty of reassurance, he followed me back. I tried again and again, but each time the browband went anywhere near his ears he was gone. Each time I brought him back he would put his head in my arms and stare deep into my eyes seeking reassurance and guidance, both of which he got by the bucket load.
I’m not one to give up easily so I spent time handling his ears to desensitise him to the feeling of the bridle, I removed the browband and then managed to get the bit in his mouth and the throat lash done up. I spent time with Shadow walking him around so he’d forget the bridle and concentrate on walking with me, he did this calmly and comfortably. Lots of praise for a positive experience.