Jessica Flaherty Horsemanship

06/19/2024

Tomorrow morning I leave for Tennessee, but after so much thought I’ve decided that Spudnik will not be joining me on this trip 💔

About a week ago I decided to officially withdraw from the Tennessee Extreme Mustang Makeover. Spud is doing great, he has come so far both mentally and physically in just a few short months.

However, he still has some quirks and he is not as confident as I would like him to be. Competition wise, I think he would perform fine for me, he has been riding for a few months now and is really shaping up to be a great riding partner. My biggest hold up was the auction. All competing horses are required to go through the auction at the end of the event, and I don’t feel confident that he will excel in just “any” home. Spud can be reactive and nervous, and he is a horse that takes a lot of confidence from his rider, and even with a confident rider he still can get nervous and unsure often. My biggest fear was him going through the auction and ending up with an adopter that isn’t aware of his quirks, and might not be a good fit for him.

All my past EMM horses that sold through the auction, I felt confident that any level of rider could end up with them, and the horses were solid enough that they could be successful in many different situations. Unfortunately with Spud, I feel he requires a more specific person that I know will feel happy and confident with him.

Spud has taught me so much in the short time I’ve had him, and he has been so different than any other mustang I’ve worked with. He has been quite the challenge because he has a hard time trusting and finding confidence. I have worked so hard to bring him to a better place where he feels comfortable in domestic life and confident around people, but ultimately 120 days just isn’t long enough for him to blossom into everything I know he can be.

With all that, Spud will be looking for his forever family back at home. I plan to keep him in full training until his perfect person comes along for him.

I know this is just the beginning for this potato 💙🥔 I will continue to share Spuds story on my page!

05/15/2024

Handsome Spudnik 😍
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Spud is a 6 year old, 15 hand gelding from Devils Garden. He is looking for his forever home. Pm for more details!

05/12/2024

As the name implies, Spudnik is indeed a couch potato 🥔 💙

05/10/2024

I am long over due for an update on my TN EMM draw, Spudnik!

Spud has been doing well, however we have had our fair share of challenges- starting with the physical issues in month 1, and recently unbagging some mental challenges. Spud is your classic “good boy”, he’s never been aggressive, he’s goofy, and he tries so hard- but he does not trust easily and can still be quite fearful.

He is especially fearful of other people and horses- both of which he needs to be comfortable with to compete! He has a very hard time with things going into his blind spots, and despite working on this multiple times a day, everyday, for a few months now, he still gets jumpy.

When he is in hand, he is much more comfortable and looks to his person for confidence, but when riding he can often get paranoid about his surroundings.

We have been pushing forward and he has over come so much in the short time I’ve had him. He has fantastic ground manners, and loves to be groomed and loved on. Undersaddle he knows everything he needs to know for the makeover- he is soft on the bit, moves off leg, knows how to sidepass, pivot, and has a sharp stop. Now we just need to get past this obstacle of his fear.

If Spud needs more time then the makeover timeline allows to work past his fears to become a solid and confident partner in a show environment, then I plan to withdraw him from the competition. I do not feel comfortable allowing an un finished horse to go through the auction where he could end up in the wrong place too easily. If we withdraw, I will continue his training and he will be available for adoption when he finds his perfect match!

We are certainly not giving up yet though and will be working hard to get him to a point that he trusts and isn’t so fearful. We have a busy schedule ahead to get him prepared!

All this being said, Spud will be available, either here in Maine or in Tennessee if he is ready for the competition! The time is ticking down and we are certainly feeling the pressure.

I am so proud of this sweet boy for all the challenges he’s overcome this far, and have so much to share with everyone over the next few weeks!

Check out this 3 month transformation!

02/04/2024

Meet tag #8896!
This 6 year old bay gelding will be my partner for the Tennessee Extreme Mustang Makeover!

#8896 spent the first 5, almost 6 years of his life as a stallion in the Devils Garden HMA in California. He was just recently rounded up and gelded a few months ago. He is in need of some serious TLC to get him in better condition for the show.

I was draw 45 of 46 trainers to select my mustang while I was in Tennessee- so he certainly wasn’t my first pick (actually was my 16th pick 🙈) but I’m already growing a bit of a soft spot for him. We haven’t had a real session yet, but this sweet guy seems to have a great head on his shoulders.

I am so excited to get him cleaned up and comfortable in domestic life as we prepare for the Extreme Mustang Makeover! Stay tuned for more updates 💙

02/03/2024

Here we go again! Excited to be competing in the TN Extreme Mustang Makeover this year! I will be sharing this mustangs journey on this page here so you can watch it’s transformation from wild to willing 💙

I just got home from selection and will be picking up this new partner tomorrow afternoon! Stay tuned!

01/26/2024

A great article featuring Waffles!🧇💛

Trainers from 13 states had 100 days to prepare untamed horses to compete in front of thousands at the Will Rogers Coliseum. Now, those horses are headed to new pastures.

01/24/2024

Waffles and I made it back to Maine late last night!

It has been a long journey spending almost 3 weeks traveling to new places, 35+ hours each way on the trailer, no pasture while on the road, and expecting her to perform her best- She has made me soo proud and deserves to have some time to be a horse and run and play 💛
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This video is from our layover in PA, I just love the moment that she realizes she is free after a hectic few weeks of work!

01/21/2024

Mustang Magic 2024-
I am over the moon with Waffles 🧇💛

Waffles and I finished 5th in the finals and she was the highest seller in the auction! The finals are a combined score of compulsory and freestyle. She tried her heart out for me, and I am SO happy with her.

Most importantly, Waffles got an AMAZING home and is on her way back to MAINE! Waffles was purchased by a lady that had already met and rode her and fell in love with her while we were back home. I couldn’t be happier for this special mustang- her journey is just beginning and I feel so lucky I’ll be able to watch it locally 💛

I’ll be sharing many more photos and videos once we finish the long drive home! I feel so incredibly lucky to have had SO much support in Texas. Waffles has so much love from all over the country, and I am so thankful.

01/20/2024

Waffles and I made it to the top 10 at the Mustang Magic! 🧇💛

Tonight we move onto the finals! I am so proud of this mustang, she has tried her heart out for me his week. Yesterday we won our trail class, and placed sixth in our compulsory pattern.

I feel so honored to stand alongside such a talented group of trainers at a event that’s been in my dreams since I was a kid.

01/19/2024

Mustang magic day 1 ✅

I am soo proud of miss Waffles! We got settled into the Will Rogers yesterday, and had a great first two classes today! She is trying so hard for me and staying level headed through this new, busy show setting.

We tied for 1st in handling and conditioning class, and tied for 4th in our maneuvers class. Tomorrow we have trail and compulsory pattern.

I couldn’t be happier with Waffles 🧇 💛

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Waffles is a 6 year old, 15 hand mare from Oregon. She will be available at the Mustang Magic. PM me if you are interested!

01/17/2024

The Project Equestrian made a fantastic video featuring miss Waffles! 🧇💛

Pm me if you are interested in her 🙂

The Mustang Magic is just around the corner! Here's your chance to adopt a trained mustang, or just come for some fun! Many prominent trainers will be at thi...

01/08/2024

Waffles had a bit of an idenity change 🧇 A couple weeks ago she got a body clip and it totally changed her appearance!

This new, brighter, clean look she has is much more comfortable for her when she gets sweaty in workouts, and is so much easier for me to keep clean for the show.

Waffles and I have already started our trip south, currently laying over in PA for a couple days to let her rest before we make the rest of the trip to TX.
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Waffles is a 6 year old, 15 hand buckskin mare from Oregon. She is available for adoption at the Mustang Magic in Fort Worth TX.

12/21/2023

Waffles 😍

Waffles is a 6 year old, 15 hand, buckskin mustang mare from Oregon. She is the total epitome of a “dream” horse- Well built, tall and thick, pretty coloring, AND a smart, safe, easy going mind!

Seriously- I think this is the horse I used to ask for on my Christmas list.

Waffles will be available at the Mustang Magic EMM Ft Worth. PM me for details.

12/19/2023

Waffles went to her first horse show this weekend and she did phenomenal!

This was only her second time ever in English tack, but she is a natural and tries so hard. Don’t let Waffles typical western attire fool you- this girl looks FABULOUS and can really excel English!

I am SO proud of how well she did, she stayed level headed through all the horse show chaos and new environment- her first time with a loud speaker, crowded arenas, and a audience.

I just love the brain on this girl.

Waffles is a 15 hand, 6 year old buckskin mare from Oregon. She will be available for adoption at the Mustang Magic in January.

12/12/2023

There is a very short list of 6 year olds I would feel comfortable cantering bridless down the beach. The list is even shorter of 6 year old mustangs just 90 days out of holding. But Waffles makes the top of those lists.

You’re gonna go far, Waff 💛

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Waffles is a 6 year old, 15 hand buckskin mustang mare from Oregon. She will be available for adoption at the Mustang Magic in January. Send me a message if you are interested.

11/30/2023

Mustang Magic, Waffles update 🧇💛

I’m loving this mare! We are cruising through to competition, somehow we will begin our journey to TX in only 6 weeks!

Waffles has been a star student! She has fit seamlessly into domestic life. She’s had her teeth floated by the vet, feet trimmed by the farrier, she’s been on small trails and ridden off property. This week she took on two new riders and never took a wrong step. In just a few days, we will make a move to a new barn with an indoor to escape Maines weather ⛄️

Waffles is a 6 year old, 15 hand, buckskin mare from Oregon. She will be available for adoption at the Mustang Magic in Fort Worth, TX in January. If you are an interested adopter and would like to meet Waffles before we head to TX, please reach out!

11/02/2023

Mustang Magic day 49 🧇 💛

Waffles and I decided to take part in no bridle November today!

I am absolutely amazed by this mustang, just 49 days out of holding. Everything about her is so special, she is going to make someone an incredible partner.

Waffles is a 15 hand, 6 year old buckskin mare from Oregon. She will be looking for her forever home at the Mustang Magic in Fort Worth, TX in January. Message me for more info!

10/19/2023

My Mustang Magic draw has a name ‼️

#6237 is not just a number anymore- Meet Waffles!

She is easy going, and so well minded. She is goofy, she loves scratches, and she just wants to be included in everything (and reminds me with a nicker anytime she sees me in the barn yard). She is extremely food motivated, and would do just about anything for an extra pebble of alfalfa. The only time you will see her moving quickly, is to get to more food.

Her cleft lip, fluffy forelock, and well rounded tummy match her personality and name perfectly.

I had the name chosen as soon as I met her- I was hoping something more elegant or meaningful would pop into mind, but after getting to know this special mare, Waffles suits her perfectly.

This mare has been doing so well- she is totally different than my other makeover draws and settled into domestic life effortlessly.

She’s just perfect, just like waffles 🧇
(Second photo sums her up best 😆💛)

10/04/2023

Day 21 with Mustang Magic draw #6237 💛

This mare is coming along great! She seems to love her domestic life- every time I go by her pen she gives me a few nickers and meets me at the gate ready for her halter. She has been so different then my other mustang draws- I am working on putting together a one month video to share some in between training clips with you all!

Still working on a name for this girl- I have a few ideas though!

#6237 is a 6 year old, 15 hand buckskin mare from Oregon. She will be available for adoption in January at the Mustang Magic in Fort Worth, TX.

09/27/2023

Mustang magic update 💛 Day 15

#6237 is doing great! She is a total dream horse- easy going, fast learner, brave and curious, big (15 hands and thick!), and BEAUTIFUL!

I absolutely adore this mare already. Here are some photos from our first 2 weeks together!

#6237 will be available for adoption at the Mustang Magic in Fort Worth TX. She is a 6 year old, 15 hand, buckskin mare from Oregon.

09/22/2023

I found #7835!

I have never found any photos of my previous mustangs in the wild, not even during roundup or in holding. I was SO excited to find these photos of #7835 from roundup!

The day before she was posted for adoption, I was saying that I want my next mustang to be atleast 5 years old, tall, athletic, colored, a mare, and have photos from the wild- at the time, I knew I was really looking for a unicorn 🦄

Then the next morning, my 5 year old, 15 hand, firecracker, pinto mare with roundup photos was posted at the closest storefront to Maine - I knew I had to adopt her!

#7835 was rounded up as a 3 year old from Conger, Utah, and she had a foal with her! At the time, there were 350 mustangs in her HMA, the BLM deemed the land was only suitable to sustain 40-80 horses.

I thought it was amazing to see the difference in her body condition after spending just 1.5 years in holding pens vs. on the range.

I’m so happy I got to find a little piece of this mares history💙

Photos from American Wild Horse Campaign

09/20/2023

First session with #7835!

This girl has been extremely reactive. She bolts at any squeak, breeze, or uncertainty- not just around humans, but even when she is “relaxing” in her paddock.

She takes no chances or risks and had been showing no curiosity towards her new life.

I was SO thrilled that during our first real session together, using a soft approach she was able to gain enough confidence to seek me out and finally engage in some way with me.

She has such a sweet demeanor, just so scared and unsure. I am very glad I’ll have her for at least a year, I have no doubt she will challenge me in new ways and teach me so much. I can’t wait to see this mare blossom into her full potential and find trust and confidence in herself and humans 💙

09/13/2023

I adopted ANOTHER mustang this week 🤦🏼‍♀️

Meet #7835, a 5 year old pinto mare from Conger, Utah.

I had made plans to adopt another mustang later in the year, as a potential candidate for the Mustang Classic 2024- if the right one came along. After some plan changes and with all MHF storefronts shutting down at the end of the month, I figured while I was already traveling north I would stop in Ohio to pick this mare up.

She is extremely reactive and scared. She made me concerned enough to raise my 6ft round pen to 7ft before unloading her 😆

Fortunately I have a longer time frame with her, and my plan is to give her some downtime while I focus on my magic mustang and client horses to let her settle in.

I am so excited to get to know her, I have a busy and exciting 2024 planned around this special mare ❤️

I will be posting training updates on this page!

09/12/2023

✨ Meet my 2024 Mustang Magic draw! ✨

#6237 is a 6 year old buckskin mare from Oregon who will be my partner for the 2024 invitational Mustang Magic!

I was lucky enough to have first draw out of the trainers- this mare instantly caught my eye with her conformation, coloring, and calm demeanor.

I am absolutely smitten over her already and can’t wait to finish our 2,500 mile journey home to Maine and start her training.

#6237 will be available for adoption at the Mustang Magic in Fort Worth, Texas in January 2024. Follow this page to watch her journey ❤️

09/06/2023

I am so excited to announce that I was invited to the Mustang Magic 2024!

The Mustang Magic is an invitational event for top mustang trainers. In just a couple days, I will be heading to Fort Worth, Texas to pick my horse for this event. I will have 120 days to gentle my mustang before we travel 1,900 miles back to Fort Worth in January to compete against Americas top mustang trainers at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo.

I feel so honored to be invited for a second year in a row. I will do my best to keep this page updated on my journey, starting with the Mustang Magic Matchup event on Thursday evening!