I realized well before the clinic, that some of my personal challenges lie in the same ballpark as Cleo’s. So I figured we were either going to be a match made in heaven or both die trying.
It turns out — we were the former. We worked through a lot of things as individuals and in relationship to one another. Oh and neither of us came even close to dying and though Cleo may have thought otherwise, she has not mentioned a word to me or her paddock mates (that I know of).
My goal in groundwork was to hold space for us both. I worked toward a more calm and settled companionship. As each day unfolded we made progress in all the exercises we tried.
For Cleo to know that she is supported so she can move freely with confidence and calm in all circumstances is crucial for her education right now as it is far from second nature to her.
I took Joel’s words to heart: observe, remember, compare and adjust (ORCA ⁃ so I can remember.)
We both worked hard every day for three days.
I could see and moreover feel Cleo changing (as was I).
As she gained more calm and confidence she was able to respond in a less reactive way and could focus for longer on each exercise. Her footfall became less fractured with moments of balance through her body.
It became easier for her to trust me to support her. When triggered and worried she calmed more quickly and got back to work and connecting with me.
Cleo has so much try along with the sweetest temperament in spite of her angst. She has come a long way since she arrived at SAFE.
Cleo still needs time to feel comfortable in her own skin and know in her heart that she is safe and secure with humans.
She is a diamond in the rough with more and more sparkles shining through everyday.
Cleo has been a gift and I am so grateful to be working with her. She will be an amazing companion horse for someone who wants to consistently work with her so that a connection of love and respect can blossom fully.”
