29/07/2025
Not every detail can be pointed out in these short videos, but the last one I posted with Eagle (Relevant vs Irrelevant) warrants highlighting the first 15 seconds. I slowed it down here because it goes by so quickly. Notice how he flinches at the approach of the flag on his right side (energy approaching his right side has been the most problematic—especially as it elevates). My approach is not to target desensitizing but to teach him relevance vs irrelevance. I do this by asking him to back up while keeping the distracting flag energy (which tends to cause him concern). Can he find AND prioritize my question? Then I did it again, but this time after asking him to walk forward—because having to stop and then back up requires even more of his effort and concentration. He passed the test with an A+. These details are not always obvious, yet I think they are the most important—for the human to test and the horse to understand.
