*** thank you for the advice but… I have people I get advice from that I trust and know 😉 no, this mustang will not end up in a bad place, no I’m not quitting on him. Yes medical things have been considered, but cannot be checked right now. No, he’s not getting alfalfa. No, he will not take supplements. No, the sounds of the world can’t go away. Yes, I have done some slowed down acknowledgement sessions. Yes, there have been lesser pressured training sessions. Yes R+ has been played around with. I’ll be putting a community post up soon, answering more of your questions… or assumptions 😂
OMGosh, Sam, you are a better person than me. When I've had people suggest I do a YT channel (I'm a health coach), I'm like NO. I'd be deleting all the armchair warriors.😂 You know, not every horse can, or is meant, to be gentled. You've done enough horses to know that. If the world was perfect, you'd have your own place and give him as long as it takes to come along, or at least see if he can come along and be gentled.
Sam, you are absolutely the best! So calm, considerate, thoughtful and observant, and also gentle even with people who don't deserve it! This boy is SO fortunate to be in your care!!!
A few years ago I found your channel because of the mustang challenge. Seeing you work with these horses just absolutely amazes me, and I love seeing you explain the process every time. Really cool to see even the frustrating parts of the process!
This is really interesting! I have a mustang similar to this one. I’ve taken a ton of time with each step along the way. I do not have a deadline and another horse to ride. Taking the necessary time is a luxury I have. I hope you get to keep him and take us along the journey.
He is a really nice looking horse. He may take extra time to settle down but I think he is worth it. One cannot help but like his spirit. I like the way you train, even though it is very different from my 1950s days of working cattle horses. Hopefully you win him over!
Great to see you posting again. I actually thought a couple days ago if maybe you’d transitioned to a journey where you were done showing folks your passion. Happy Holidays.
Might be worth treating for ulcers just to see if thats it. My mustang will get like that and suddenly act wild again and I know it's time to do another round of omeprazole.
I’m grateful for you sharing the ups and downs! I’m working on gentling my 5th Mustang and she is SO MUCH more challenging than the previous ones and sometimes it’s like what is your deal, horse?! They are all individuals, it is helpful to see even the pros run into road blocks from time to time. So thank you. 😊
I watch Todd Pierce on Crossroads and I noticed a difference in training style. Not big things necessarily but I highly recommend Todd for impute. I think you're doing a pretty good job overall,.
I would be highly suspicious of ulcers in this horse. Theyre actually incredibly common in horses and they will be brought on my stressful events like moving barns, new places, etc.. and they will typically become extra spooky/snorty. My horse has a tendency to get them and im very familiar with the signs. The typical feeding a horse 2x's a day in a boarding situation doesn’t help (dont worry i need to do this too with mine, sometimes you can only control so much) but it means being hyper vigilant in other ways. I treated mine with nexium and a daily supplement (u-gard) and use a slow feed net in his stall at night to prolong the consumption of his hay. Hope this helps. ❤
I also have a Mustang like this. I bought him green broke to ride. I’ve had him for 6 months and he is still doing the electric shock reaction when I first touch him. I have had improvement with the John Lyons round pen method.
Sometimes with these types of horses that I e found out in my years of training horses , the more you make them just stand around the worst they get .. I would make him trot a lot canter till he shows you a slight change , an if he does blow up let him , but still have a soft presence like you are here . I’d work him 2-3 short sessions a day . I really like how calm you are , that will definitely help , but some horses just really never settle down completely until you move them around , and they actually relax quicker like that . Best of luck !
I really hope that he comes around or that you can find a sanctuary for him. I pray this guy doesn't end up going to slaughter in Mexico. He is in the best hands with you and I hope you are able to keep him safe. Thank you for giving him a chance since he was taken from the wild where he was probably living a good life.
Despite of, or maybe because of, your huge experience with mustangs, it's great to see you looking to consult with other very experienced mustang trainers. He's certainly proving extremely difficult and the option to take it slower with him and keep him but get another mustang for the next competition sounds a good one, though that will put even more financial and time restraints on you. But he is beautiful and could turn into a great horse in the long term.
I would be interested in helping financially( it would be great if the followers could all contribute to his care so you wouldnt have to worry about paying board on him) so that even if you decide to get another mustang if you would have the time to continue training him as well so we can see how and what you do with a special horse like him. As this is training gold, figuring out how to progress with him.
Thank you very much for this video! That was exactly what i thought while watching yesterday's video that there is something weird in his slow progress. I was wondering how do you manage it, I can imagine it must be frustrating. I really like that you respect him.
This is what I imagine my Icelandic horse would have looked like when he was younger. I have heard from those that "broke" him that it took a loong time for him to trust people, and he still does today, 9 years later. I have now owned him for two years and he is still nervous and reactive sometimes, but is definitely more calm. I thought he was confident with his new self but last winter he changed over a week. From being ridden on trail alone and doing everything with joy he became more reactive, explosive and nervous than I have ever seen him. The vet and equitherapeut found nothing, I started giving him supplements to help with his nervous system and basically going back to basics. It took several months for him to build up that trust again and then we moved to a calmer place, where he seems to relax. I still don't know if anything was physically wrong with him but we are on track again at least :) During this time I got a bachelor in animal behavior so I got some tools to help my horse. It is clear that your horse is stressed (the breathing, and overall behavior), but I'm sure that if you give it time he will loosen up. Love to you both 😊
As I raised,broke n trained for 30 yrs I will say U R doing great! I never worked with Mustangs but this guy looks to be a bit of a wise guy or knot head! I always found the old saying a wet saddle blanket cures a lot of ills 😊! I know U R not there yet but round pen on lunge line to get him thinking might be in order! ❤ A soft n gentle blow into the nostrils is a good calming technique I found!
@@NoThankUBeQuietI doubt that’s what they were saying, sometimes blowing off some steam and joining up helps a lot with antsy horses they aren’t meant to just stay in a round pen and get fat until you decide you want to go for a ride around the block. And there are many ways to train horses some good some bad but just because it’s not your style doesn’t make it abusive calm down.
Judging from your videos i feel that yes he is very reactive and more difficult however he seems like he does want to follow you and learn. I believe he's worth it. Just need a lot of patience with this one. Also the crows and plane seemed to have been freaking him out while he was trying to focus on the flag. Seemed to be too much in that moment for him. Good luck he's a beautiful horse.
Apologies if the opinion is unsolicited - I know that these videos are typically behind in time so not sure where you're at current day, however he seems like he really wants to be receptive and involved (particularly him accepting the head pats) but has a block. Based on what you've shown and explained, I really would be suspicious of something medical going on. I mean you haven't had him that long and the fact you could get the dentist to have a brief look at him this early on is still pretty impressive. I am a professional equine behaviourist and whilst I don't have mustang experience, he does make me suspicious of something medical or physical discomfort related. Potentially hormone related with his stud-y tendencies, a poor gelding job? I don't know, hard to judge from a few videos of course. "Overeaction", sensitivity and regression are quite common with hormone related issues. Wishing you the best with him.
He was like, "You know, the people in the comments said awesome things about me, so I'd like to invoke my Jinx card now." XD You'll be fine, with time. He might take a while to trust, but when he gets there, he'll be gold.
I wonder if you feel he's at all similar to Brutus, Camille's horse from several years ago. Hang in there and don't let these setbacks mess with your head. You're great with these horses.
Hi Sam. Question. Have you ever worked with one from Antelope valley ? We have two mares that were 3 when caught and holding for two years. They were a bit difficult. They were in 2021 roundup. Maybe it just may take time for him to have your trust ? We had a lot of backslide with them. Granted we are not experienced like you.
Yeah, he definitely looks tricky...the way his energy is...a couple of ideas....am assuming he has been vetted and have ruled out like eyesight issues and stuff like that....though if you are in lyme disease country, I would get his bloodwork done for that...I once had a solid broke pony who all of a sudden got quite erratic and started shying at things like his feed bucket! when I knew something was off, it turned out his lyme numbers were very, very high. He was treated and got better. Another suggestion, is maybe try an animal communicator, one with good word of mouth etc. sometimes a good one can give you and indicator what is going on physical or emotional, is worth a shot they usually are not terribly expensive. Also, if there are some good body workers...I would start by just getting him to lower his head and work on stuff that would deal with trauma release. Getting him to just relax around you....I know some people that love 'the trust technique", I have also seen impressive stuff with that technique...would be really good to learn regardless for any horse or animal especially the mustangs. All the best, really like your channel....horses are puzzles.
I know you probably dont want tips but this is what i try to remember when i get stuck. Animal training is animal training. If horse techniques arent working for you look at marine mammals or dogs or cats or whatever at the end of the day you may find an idea that leads to a break through for you.
I have two suggestions. As you say, one minute he is fine, then he reverts. Seems to be a metabolic issue. First I would treat with a 5 day power pac. Giardia is extremely difficult to see in fecal tests. Dogs in the shelter I worked with would become more tractable after treatment even though there was a negative test. Having had chronic lyme way back when it was still not acknowledged as a thing, I can tell you parasites in your blood make you flaky. Second, change his diet. Lower his protein intake. No alfalfa. I know someone that took a 3 striker and put him on cow hay and weeds and the horse had a complete turnaround (maintained body score too). He went on to be a lesson pony. Mustangs are not used to the levels of protein we provide otherwise they wouldn't survive in the wild. JMO. I would hate to see him go back. Best of luck!
Thank you for being realistic, I have a mare who reacts similar to this horse and no not a mustang but she’s always taken insult to repetition once she’s done something right. She’s hot, sensitive and over smart because of this I’ve never put her up for sale worrying that in impatient or insensitive hands she would hurt someone. She’s been my riding horse for 15 years and she hasn’t changed much but we understand each other through good and bad. Hope you find a solution for this guy and completely understand of not being able to afford long term!
Ik think it was you who said he kept breaking out of his pen. Could it be that he got stuck and is sore? I am working with a young horse currently and she got stuck in the stable she was also all of a sudden very tense and off. After we had body work done she was her old self again. Hope you find out what is bothering hem. He is gorgeous
@tayandtaff Agreed. If she decides to keep that horse ( which I hope she does), it will take time, but love and training will help the horse accept the airplanes without fear. jmho.
Beautiful gentleman in that pony... The Low-energy approach doesn't work for all horses. He's obviously well acquainted with yielding to the Long-line and the Flagging stick while giving to the halter pressure. At this point, I would stop Dry-Training and introduce him to really working on a longe-line and get the Wet-Training started... Make him work more so he looks forward to being still while you do the desensitizing work...
I really feel like he's been through some trauma he can't let go of... poor boy. I wonder what happened. Steve Young is heading to USA next year. I know you are VERY competent but even that aggressive gelding you did a few years ago calmed quicker this, anyway.. would love to see a collab with Steve
Oh that would be so amazing! They both have such a gift of reading the horses and also respecting the horses where they are at, but helping them get to where they will be happier with humans.
I also love Steve… but I think these mustangs need people that are specific in training wild Mustangs. I’m totally in awe when I see how competent ones like Sam and Camille are at knowing how these wild horses think and respond to their handling. I personally think it’s a totally different approach to how Steve would be. I’d love to see him work with Sam… but I also think she is far more experienced and knowledgeable with wild mustangs… and I wonder if his approach would just cause confrontation with a wild mustang.
@sherrieaton6444 I disagree. I've seen Steve work with totally unhandled, aggressive and abused horses. He has a gift of reading the horse and being able to communicate with the horses at their unique level. I think Sam also has this gift of lightning quick reading of the horses. I think they would like each other. I see many similarities in how they interact with the horses. They make it look easy, but I think there are many things going on between them and the horses that cannot be adequately explained in lightning quick moments. Plus, then they take the time to explain to us while they are doing it. Both are absolutely amazing and a gift to both people who love horses and to horses and help so many.
he is a horse, dont take that way from him. stick with it (he is) what i mean is he hasnt left the country and even if he did get out thres still nothing to worry about because theres ocean on both sides
Don't mind me, I see you've heard plenty of opinions. While you always do such a great job, and you have probably already considered it and have other ideas for dealing with this lovely boy, I'm wondering if his "stallion mind" remains suspicious because you're slow and kind. It seems he needs wet blankets, that is, increased action with directional changes and intermittent desensitization to show him you are the boss of his care and movement. No doubt it will increase anxiety at first, but getting tired over and over, with all proper consideration for his health of course, could be the initial approach this boy needs.
Normally those kinds of crow calls would put a wild horse on alert. Plenty of things can set a wild animal off or make them hyper-vigilent. Is he better on quiet days or is he worse on days with more things happening. Like crows, squirrels chattering, or dogs barking.
He sounds wheezy from the first few videos I watched in the past, he didnt sound like that? The first few videos he was coming along well... maybe he just isnt feeling well? I wish I knew more about horses. I dont have any idea why he would sound like he is wheezing
Was he gathered in 2022 during the first week of July? If so, he could easily be traumatized just from that roundup. It was horrible. (Ten other horses died grusome deaths during that week, per the BLM's own gather reports.) There is video footage of that gather posted online as well because it was so disturbing, and I would happily send you a link if you'd like some insight into what he might have been exposed to. I just rewatched it to make sure it was the same HMA. There were several horses in that footage that look so much like him. If he came from that gather, you should really see that footage for yourself to help inform your decisions on how to best help him. :( I'm not trying to discourage you at all! He's absolutely beautiful and could turn out to be an amazing horse if you can just get him to trust you. I have faith that you can help him through whatever traumas he has. It might extra time, but it could be so worth it. I absolutely love all your videos, but this horse has especially won over my heart! Thank you for sharing your sessions with him. Also, happy thanksgiving!
Everything I see with him getting better than worse points to inflamed and sensitive nerves. I’ve had several with the same behaviour if you want to PM me, I’ll give you my take on the cause and cure. It may not be something you’ve thought of, but will make total sense to you.
I am not a horse trainer- not even close! So, I have a genuine question about horse training in general. Why do you not use treats like you do with a dog? 😅 I feel like they’d like you super quick haha but I’m sure there’s a reason you don’t!
Sam, are you allowed to give them supplements? I know there’s usually that big show at the end where you have the option to sell the mustangs, are show legal supplements allowed? Maybe a magnesium supplement could help him just to ease his mind. I’m not a big supplement person, but two of my go-to’s are a gut and magnesium combo, especially cause of my guy. I feel like our horses share some history. He has a bit of a traumatic past and isn’t so trusting of humans either. He’s been in a good home for two years now but is still jumpy and will flinch if you move your hands near his face too fast at times. I hope you can figure out what’s going on with your guy❤❤
I just worked with one of these horses last month. IT'S NOT WORTH it. I love horses and want the best for them... But there are too many good ones. Sometimes you get one that just can't think. They will not work it out for themself.
If you love horses and want the best for them, then you should understand why it is important for a trainer as gifted as Sam is not to give up on them. Every other trainer/owner afterwards will just make things worse for the horse. That is how horses get started into the slaughter pipeline.
@@marilynbridges8697 The accountability of the internet is a lesson. We live in a fallen world and we’re called to be wise and good stewards to all of creation equally. Parents, spouses, children, animals, land, nations… are all interdependent. In Hindu India, batteries of drugs are given to suffering cows, but the pain never ends and the economy suffers. While, in Kazakhstan, they ride and love their horses, and then humanely relieve their suffering to feed their families with them. There is a cycle to life. This is reality, and it always drives us to face God’s order and judgment.
As I mentioned earlier, you have to establish a trustful relationship first. He is, after a week, still afraid of your hand. Never look in his eyes. It's the behavior of predators. I think you are not able to give him a natural environment with other horses, much of space. You seem to make the same mistakes as generations of horse trainers have made before starting young horses. As they call it, "to break a horse". For what do you need a post in the middle? I think you should ask for professional help, as the training goes in a wrong direction. Ethological approach needs much of knowledge, experience and a concept according to the philosophy of Horsemanship. It's a pity for this promising and sensible horse.
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
*** thank you for the advice but… I have people I get advice from that I trust and know 😉 no, this mustang will not end up in a bad place, no I’m not quitting on him. Yes medical things have been considered, but cannot be checked right now. No, he’s not getting alfalfa. No, he will not take supplements. No, the sounds of the world can’t go away. Yes, I have done some slowed down acknowledgement sessions. Yes, there have been lesser pressured training sessions. Yes R+ has been played around with. I’ll be putting a community post up soon, answering more of your questions… or assumptions 😂
OMGosh, Sam, you are a better person than me. When I've had people suggest I do a YT channel (I'm a health coach), I'm like NO. I'd be deleting all the armchair warriors.😂 You know, not every horse can, or is meant, to be gentled. You've done enough horses to know that. If the world was perfect, you'd have your own place and give him as long as it takes to come along, or at least see if he can come along and be gentled.
Sam, you are absolutely the best! So calm, considerate, thoughtful and observant, and also gentle even with people who don't deserve it! This boy is SO fortunate to be in your care!!!
A few years ago I found your channel because of the mustang challenge. Seeing you work with these horses just absolutely amazes me, and I love seeing you explain the process every time. Really cool to see even the frustrating parts of the process!
I appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts with us. I'll be here cheering you on regardless of what the best solution might be
He is so gorgeous.. I hope you stick it out with him. He needs you.
This is really interesting! I have a mustang similar to this one. I’ve taken a ton of time with each step along the way. I do not have a deadline and another horse to ride. Taking the necessary time is a luxury I have. I hope you get to keep him and take us along the journey.
He is a really nice looking horse. He may take extra time to settle down but I think he is worth it. One cannot help but like his spirit. I like the way you train, even though it is very different from my 1950s days of working cattle horses. Hopefully you win him over!
Great to see you posting again. I actually thought a couple days ago if maybe you’d transitioned to a journey where you were done showing folks your passion. Happy Holidays.
The end of his tail looks pretty in the sunlight. It's red. ♥️
You’re doing a phenomenal job as always! This guy is so blessed that you’re his trainer! Hope everything smooths out soon…❤️
Might be worth treating for ulcers just to see if thats it. My mustang will get like that and suddenly act wild again and I know it's time to do another round of omeprazole.
I really appreciate this! this is soo like a little mustang I got in June! But I have yet to get the halter on
He’s a beautiful horse. I hope you can work it out with him. You are an amazing trainer.
I’m grateful for you sharing the ups and downs! I’m working on gentling my 5th Mustang and she is SO MUCH more challenging than the previous ones and sometimes it’s like what is your deal, horse?! They are all individuals, it is helpful to see even the pros run into road blocks from time to time. So thank you. 😊
I watch Todd Pierce on Crossroads and I noticed a difference in training style. Not big things necessarily but I highly recommend Todd for impute.
I think you're doing a pretty good job overall,.
I would be highly suspicious of ulcers in this horse. Theyre actually incredibly common in horses and they will be brought on my stressful events like moving barns, new places, etc.. and they will typically become extra spooky/snorty. My horse has a tendency to get them and im very familiar with the signs. The typical feeding a horse 2x's a day in a boarding situation doesn’t help (dont worry i need to do this too with mine, sometimes you can only control so much) but it means being hyper vigilant in other ways. I treated mine with nexium and a daily supplement (u-gard) and use a slow feed net in his stall at night to prolong the consumption of his hay. Hope this helps. ❤
@@EstiSara all of my horses have been getting treated as new arrivals for ulcers for years
@SamVanFleet that's amazing! Thank you for doing that for them, you don't see that too often.
I also have a Mustang like this. I bought him green broke to ride. I’ve had him for 6 months and he is still doing the electric shock reaction when I first touch him. I have had improvement with the John Lyons round pen method.
Best health & safety for the new year and beyond❣
Sometimes with these types of horses that I e found out in my years of training horses , the more you make them just stand around the worst they get ..
I would make him trot a lot canter till he shows you a slight change , an if he does blow up let him , but still have a soft presence like you are here .
I’d work him 2-3 short sessions a day .
I really like how calm you are , that will definitely help , but some horses just really never settle down completely until you move them around , and they actually relax quicker like that . Best of luck !
That's been my experience and just doing a lot of regular movements around them let them get use to you ❤
Hope he comes around and it all works out! ❤
I really hope that he comes around or that you can find a sanctuary for him. I pray this guy doesn't end up going to slaughter in Mexico. He is in the best hands with you and I hope you are able to keep him safe.
Thank you for giving him a chance since he was taken from the wild where he was probably living a good life.
Despite of, or maybe because of, your huge experience with mustangs, it's great to see you looking to consult with other very experienced mustang trainers. He's certainly proving extremely difficult and the option to take it slower with him and keep him but get another mustang for the next competition sounds a good one, though that will put even more financial and time restraints on you. But he is beautiful and could turn into a great horse in the long term.
I would be interested in helping financially( it would be great if the followers could all contribute to his care so you wouldnt have to worry about paying board on him) so that even if you decide to get another mustang if you would have the time to continue training him as well so we can see how and what you do with a special horse like him. As this is training gold, figuring out how to progress with him.
Thank you very much for this video! That was exactly what i thought while watching yesterday's video that there is something weird in his slow progress. I was wondering how do you manage it, I can imagine it must be frustrating. I really like that you respect him.
They are all so different, aren’t they? Hard to know what to do - you will make the right call. ❤❤❤
This is what I imagine my Icelandic horse would have looked like when he was younger. I have heard from those that "broke" him that it took a loong time for him to trust people, and he still does today, 9 years later. I have now owned him for two years and he is still nervous and reactive sometimes, but is definitely more calm. I thought he was confident with his new self but last winter he changed over a week. From being ridden on trail alone and doing everything with joy he became more reactive, explosive and nervous than I have ever seen him. The vet and equitherapeut found nothing, I started giving him supplements to help with his nervous system and basically going back to basics. It took several months for him to build up that trust again and then we moved to a calmer place, where he seems to relax. I still don't know if anything was physically wrong with him but we are on track again at least :) During this time I got a bachelor in animal behavior so I got some tools to help my horse. It is clear that your horse is stressed (the breathing, and overall behavior), but I'm sure that if you give it time he will loosen up. Love to you both 😊
Tim Anderson in Mississippi works blm mustangs. You're doing great . He's lucky he found you!
You are doing great he is beautiful
As I raised,broke n trained for 30 yrs I will say U R doing great! I never worked with Mustangs but this guy looks to be a bit of a wise guy or knot head! I always found the old saying a wet saddle blanket cures a lot of ills 😊! I know U R not there yet but round pen on lunge line to get him thinking might be in order! ❤ A soft n gentle blow into the nostrils is a good calming technique I found!
Its 2024 we don't run horses into the ground and call it training anymore
Never did that myself!
@@NoThankUBeQuiet He might just mean a Join-Up (a very gentle training technique) . Chill out hon 😘
@@NoThankUBeQuietI doubt that’s what they were saying, sometimes blowing off some steam and joining up helps a lot with antsy horses they aren’t meant to just stay in a round pen and get fat until you decide you want to go for a ride around the block. And there are many ways to train horses some good some bad but just because it’s not your style doesn’t make it abusive calm down.
Judging from your videos i feel that yes he is very reactive and more difficult however he seems like he does want to follow you and learn. I believe he's worth it. Just need a lot of patience with this one.
Also the crows and plane seemed to have been freaking him out while he was trying to focus on the flag. Seemed to be too much in that moment for him. Good luck he's a beautiful horse.
Apologies if the opinion is unsolicited - I know that these videos are typically behind in time so not sure where you're at current day, however he seems like he really wants to be receptive and involved (particularly him accepting the head pats) but has a block. Based on what you've shown and explained, I really would be suspicious of something medical going on. I mean you haven't had him that long and the fact you could get the dentist to have a brief look at him this early on is still pretty impressive. I am a professional equine behaviourist and whilst I don't have mustang experience, he does make me suspicious of something medical or physical discomfort related. Potentially hormone related with his stud-y tendencies, a poor gelding job? I don't know, hard to judge from a few videos of course. "Overeaction", sensitivity and regression are quite common with hormone related issues. Wishing you the best with him.
@@Lilee177 hoping to get stuff checked out once I can get a vet near him!
@SamVanFleet Completely understandable! So many domestic horses have issues with vets, I don't imagine the wildies find it much easier.
He was like, "You know, the people in the comments said awesome things about me, so I'd like to invoke my Jinx card now." XD You'll be fine, with time. He might take a while to trust, but when he gets there, he'll be gold.
@@SilverFlame819 😆😆
I wonder if you feel he's at all similar to Brutus, Camille's horse from several years ago. Hang in there and don't let these setbacks mess with your head. You're great with these horses.
Hi Sam. Question.
Have you ever worked with one from Antelope valley ? We have two mares that were 3 when caught and holding for two years. They were a bit difficult. They were in 2021 roundup. Maybe it just may take time for him to have your trust ? We had a lot of backslide with them. Granted we are not experienced like you.
Yeah, he definitely looks tricky...the way his energy is...a couple of ideas....am assuming he has been vetted and have ruled out like eyesight issues and stuff like that....though if you are in lyme disease country, I would get his bloodwork done for that...I once had a solid broke pony who all of a sudden got quite erratic and started shying at things like his feed bucket! when I knew something was off, it turned out his lyme numbers were very, very high. He was treated and got better.
Another suggestion, is maybe try an animal communicator, one with good word of mouth etc. sometimes a good one can give you and indicator what is going on physical or emotional, is worth a shot they usually are not terribly expensive. Also, if there are some good body workers...I would start by just getting him to lower his head and work on stuff that would deal with trauma release. Getting him to just relax around you....I know some people that love 'the trust technique", I have also seen impressive stuff with that technique...would be really good to learn regardless for any horse or animal especially the mustangs.
All the best, really like your channel....horses are puzzles.
I don't know anything about horses, but what about putting him with another calm seasoned horse to help learn calm behaviors?
I know you probably dont want tips but this is what i try to remember when i get stuck. Animal training is animal training. If horse techniques arent working for you look at marine mammals or dogs or cats or whatever at the end of the day you may find an idea that leads to a break through for you.
He needs you Sam.
I have two suggestions. As you say, one minute he is fine, then he reverts. Seems to be a metabolic issue.
First I would treat with a 5 day power pac. Giardia is extremely difficult to see in fecal tests. Dogs in the shelter I worked with would become more tractable after treatment even though there was a negative test. Having had chronic lyme way back when it was still not acknowledged as a thing, I can tell you parasites in your blood make you flaky.
Second, change his diet. Lower his protein intake. No alfalfa. I know someone that took a 3 striker and put him on cow hay and weeds and the horse had a complete turnaround (maintained body score too). He went on to be a lesson pony. Mustangs are not used to the levels of protein we provide otherwise they wouldn't survive in the wild.
JMO. I would hate to see him go back. Best of luck!
He doesn’t get any alfalfa
Thank you for being realistic, I have a mare who reacts similar to this horse and no not a mustang but she’s always taken insult to repetition once she’s done something right. She’s hot, sensitive and over smart because of this I’ve never put her up for sale worrying that in impatient or insensitive hands she would hurt someone. She’s been my riding horse for 15 years and she hasn’t changed much but we understand each other through good and bad. Hope you find a solution for this guy and completely understand of not being able to afford long term!
Thank you for not giving up on your mare.
Ik think it was you who said he kept breaking out of his pen. Could it be that he got stuck and is sore?
I am working with a young horse currently and she got stuck in the stable she was also all of a sudden very tense and off. After we had body work done she was her old self again. Hope you find out what is bothering hem. He is gorgeous
Very possible!
Hey, question: when was he gathered & gelded?
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Simplemente hay caballos mentalmente incompletos, así como hay muchos humanos así.
P. S. If he was caught in a roundup those airplane noises could be upsetting him
Good point.
You cant really make that go away tho
@tayandtaff Agreed. If she decides to keep that horse ( which I hope she does), it will take time, but love and training will help the horse accept the airplanes without fear. jmho.
Beautiful gentleman in that pony... The Low-energy approach doesn't work for all horses. He's obviously well acquainted with yielding to the Long-line and the Flagging stick while giving to the halter pressure.
At this point, I would stop Dry-Training and introduce him to really working on a longe-line and get the Wet-Training started... Make him work more so he looks forward to being still while you do the desensitizing work...
I have the feeling that this little guy, once won over, will go through fire for those he loves..
I really feel like he's been through some trauma he can't let go of... poor boy. I wonder what happened. Steve Young is heading to USA next year. I know you are VERY competent but even that aggressive gelding you did a few years ago calmed quicker this, anyway.. would love to see a collab with Steve
Oh that would be so amazing! They both have such a gift of reading the horses and also respecting the horses where they are at, but helping them get to where they will be happier with humans.
I also love Steve… but I think these mustangs need people that are specific in training wild Mustangs. I’m totally in awe when I see how competent ones like Sam and Camille are at knowing how these wild horses think and respond to their handling. I personally think it’s a totally different approach to how Steve would be. I’d love to see him work with Sam… but I also think she is far more experienced and knowledgeable with wild mustangs… and I wonder if his approach would just cause confrontation with a wild mustang.
@sherrieaton6444 I disagree. I've seen Steve work with totally unhandled, aggressive and abused horses. He has a gift of reading the horse and being able to communicate with the horses at their unique level. I think Sam also has this gift of lightning quick reading of the horses. I think they would like each other. I see many similarities in how they interact with the horses. They make it look easy, but I think there are many things going on between them and the horses that cannot be adequately explained in lightning quick moments. Plus, then they take the time to explain to us while they are doing it. Both are absolutely amazing and a gift to both people who love horses and to horses and help so many.
@@sherrieaton6444I agree with you. I ride for 50 years, but had to learn a lot when I adopted a mustang last year.
he is a horse, dont take that way from him. stick with it (he is) what i mean is he hasnt left the country and even if he did get out thres still nothing to worry about because theres ocean on both sides
Sam, have you considered a short lay down? His attention span might improve.
Don't mind me, I see you've heard plenty of opinions. While you always do such a great job, and you have probably already considered it and have other ideas for dealing with this lovely boy, I'm wondering if his "stallion mind" remains suspicious because you're slow and kind. It seems he needs wet blankets, that is, increased action with directional changes and intermittent desensitization to show him you are the boss of his care and movement. No doubt it will increase anxiety at first, but getting tired over and over, with all proper consideration for his health of course, could be the initial approach this boy needs.
Normally those kinds of crow calls would put a wild horse on alert. Plenty of things can set a wild animal off or make them hyper-vigilent. Is he better on quiet days or is he worse on days with more things happening. Like crows, squirrels chattering, or dogs barking.
Definitely!
He may just calm down suddenly persevere I believe he will settle he’s scared as he trust he will bond
Wonder if he’s crypt?
I also wondered that.
He sounds wheezy from the first few videos I watched in the past, he didnt sound like that? The first few videos he was coming along well... maybe he just isnt feeling well? I wish I knew more about horses. I dont have any idea why he would sound like he is wheezing
It's so strange. It's almost like someone else messed with him in between seeing you. Is there any way that could happen?
Was he gathered in 2022 during the first week of July? If so, he could easily be traumatized just from that roundup. It was horrible. (Ten other horses died grusome deaths during that week, per the BLM's own gather reports.) There is video footage of that gather posted online as well because it was so disturbing, and I would happily send you a link if you'd like some insight into what he might have been exposed to. I just rewatched it to make sure it was the same HMA. There were several horses in that footage that look so much like him. If he came from that gather, you should really see that footage for yourself to help inform your decisions on how to best help him. :(
I'm not trying to discourage you at all! He's absolutely beautiful and could turn out to be an amazing horse if you can just get him to trust you. I have faith that you can help him through whatever traumas he has. It might extra time, but it could be so worth it. I absolutely love all your videos, but this horse has especially won over my heart! Thank you for sharing your sessions with him. Also, happy thanksgiving!
Maybe he still have one boy berry? That could be why he is still acting like a stud horse. Just an idea.
Everything I see with him getting better than worse points to inflamed and sensitive nerves. I’ve had several with the same behaviour if you want to PM me, I’ll give you my take on the cause and cure. It may not be something you’ve thought of, but will make total sense to you.
He does seem quite a bit more uncomfortable with you petting him. Hopefully he is ok and nothing medical. Praying it’s just a off day ❤️
@@RubyFoster-q5j I hope so too!
Could there be a neurological problem or him be partially blind in a way?
Mmmm, you are working him in the shadows. Some horses are titchy when in shadows. Is he the same in no shadows..
I am not a horse trainer- not even close! So, I have a genuine question about horse training in general. Why do you not use treats like you do with a dog? 😅 I feel like they’d like you super quick haha but I’m sure there’s a reason you don’t!
Treats don't help horses, they make dominance much worse.
@ thank you! Very interesting
Sam, are you allowed to give them supplements? I know there’s usually that big show at the end where you have the option to sell the mustangs, are show legal supplements allowed? Maybe a magnesium supplement could help him just to ease his mind. I’m not a big supplement person, but two of my go-to’s are a gut and magnesium combo, especially cause of my guy. I feel like our horses share some history. He has a bit of a traumatic past and isn’t so trusting of humans either. He’s been in a good home for two years now but is still jumpy and will flinch if you move your hands near his face too fast at times. I hope you can figure out what’s going on with your guy❤❤
Tooth pain.
I just worked with one of these horses last month. IT'S NOT WORTH it. I love horses and want the best for them... But there are too many good ones. Sometimes you get one that just can't think. They will not work it out for themself.
If you love horses and want the best for them, then you should understand why it is important for a trainer as gifted as Sam is not to give up on them. Every other trainer/owner afterwards will just make things worse for the horse. That is how horses get started into the slaughter pipeline.
@@marilynbridges8697 The accountability of the internet is a lesson. We live in a fallen world and we’re called to be wise and good stewards to all of creation equally. Parents, spouses, children, animals, land, nations… are all interdependent. In Hindu India, batteries of drugs are given to suffering cows, but the pain never ends and the economy suffers. While, in Kazakhstan, they ride and love their horses, and then humanely relieve their suffering to feed their families with them. There is a cycle to life. This is reality, and it always drives us to face God’s order and judgment.
As I mentioned earlier, you have to establish a trustful relationship first. He is, after a week, still afraid of your hand. Never look in his eyes. It's the behavior of predators. I think you are not able to give him a natural environment with other horses, much of space. You seem to make the same mistakes as generations of horse trainers have made before starting young horses. As they call it, "to break a horse". For what do you need a post in the middle? I think you should ask for professional help, as the training goes in a wrong direction. Ethological approach needs much of knowledge, experience and a concept according to the philosophy of Horsemanship. It's a pity for this promising and sensible horse.
I love horses, but this, This Drama Queen is a bad purchase. Your ROI on this Thing isn't going to pay off as you want at all.
A lot of love works wonders it's a daily process ❤️🫂