What marvellous progress our favourite friend Gaio is making. He's so lucky to have found a lovely forever home after the horrors of the bullfighting ring. Lovely to see, carry on the good work, Jesse! ❤❤
That last trot you did and he dropped low and relaxed was sooo good. Your so good for him Jesse. All I think of with him is the trauma and experiences of the bull fighting and how he needs someone gentle and patient with him and not someone to put pressure on him.
I laughed so loud when Gaio started doing Spanish Walks as soon as you said you're not trying to be show ready! He was like: "Excuse me speak for yourself. I'm show ready!" lol
The spanish use big heavy bits and a noseband with spikes which is a sereta. They are barbaric and cause a lot of pain!! Some horses are scarred for life. So its so nice that he can now live an a normal horse and get plenty of love. The bond will become unbreakable.❤❤
When you consider that Gaio had to be constantly on the alert and ready to react when facing a distressed bull, you can easily forgive any tension he manifests. I think you doing a wonderful job with him, Jesse.
So funny with Antares carrying on, when you were riding Gaio in the arena ... whilst none of the other horses were reacting. Unfortunate you don't have a larger property to allow for more horses ... as your mentally towards horses is akin to running an equestrian rescue. You display such compassion for horses in general ... similar to the man who now cares for Sureno. Both of you have a deep love and compassion for horses and a desire to be the kindest and least intrusive with respect to setting your will upon horses, while maintaining a sense of control with the horses' cooperation ... if that makes any sense. It seems to be the most popular equestrian RUclips channels are the ones whereby kindness and compassion is the priority ... whether it be through equestrian riding, husbandry and/or rescue. I think it'll be nice once Gaio comes to live at your facility ... hopefully he'll be able to chill more.
Gaio’s mouthing and lip play are at least loose and mostly relaxed, no tension or jaw clenching I can see - and his eyes are so expressive, no fear. I think he’s a very mentally active boy and looks for lots of mental / physical stimulation. Your idea of moving him home for a while sounds great, if you can get them all accepting each other! Best of luck with your gorgeous Gaio, Jesse!!
I love these videos because Jesse talks about the individual psychology of each horse in this very gentle, very intuitive way, but without falling into that awful, fluffy woo you get with a lot of "natural" trainers in the US. This is the kind of empathy I expect from somebody much older, and it's great. I actually subscribed to Horse World TV for just this reason, and was very glad to see that it appears there too. Thank you. :)
Oh I vote for you bringing this boy home. He needs a regular schedule of you touching him and reassuring him and letting him know that he can be the horse he knows he is under your careful kind hand. He is absolutely beautiful. He’s acting like a horse that is just barely broke
If anyone can show Gaio a happier life it's you Jesse. He's such a gorgeous horse, an I hope Gaio and Anteras can be friends. Thank you for taking us along, see you soon!
Gaio is such an intelligent dude, and burst my sides laughing when he broke into the spanish walk unaided ... he's a hoot. He looked so much more relaxed at the end of the session. You have such patience, understanding and love for all your animals, it's a joy to see. Loved, loved loved this video and can't wait to see more from this outstanding boy.
Accept Gaio as he is now. Trauma literally changes the way the brain is wired. The damages he went thro back then will leave permanent "scars". Some will be healed, some can be healed and some can not. So accept him as he is now because he is his best now with what he have ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Yes! 👍👏👏👏 Gaio really needs to learn he is finally safe & he doesn't need to be on high alert all the time now. Can only imagine what he went through at his Bull Fighting stable.... yelling, harsh bits, getting whipped, very sharp spurs, metal, sawtooth nose bands. 😱😱😱 TG, he's in for his Best Life with Jesse!!!
I say it every time I see him, but I’m going to say it again. Gaio is such a beautiful horse. His color is so beautiful contrasting with the black furnishings. I really hope he makes it home permanently one day.
Wow. He is such an amazing horse! I can't imagine how scary his life was when he had to fight bulls, no wonder he couldn't relax before. You have an amazing gift Jesse, your calm, loving presence is healing him. I'm so happy you are together! 🥰❤️
What a super intelligent horse! You can see his brain ticking all the time. Lovely seeing him relax into that trot and staying there. I like his head position too. He is so lucky to have a patient rider like you Jesse. He has come a long way already...
Jesse, what a wonderful horse Gaio is becoming with you now. ❤. So good to see him relaxing more under your empathy and patience. Perhaps liberty work will be good for him, he is so intelligent. Your property would suit him like you say quieter and chilled. People forget how far our energy fields around us expand to and hustle and bustle may still remind him about the bull fighting days. Wishing you both many happy memories with Gaio at home with you, ask the Universe to provide the way to achieve this........ dreams do come true .
Your patience with Gaio is absolutely admirable. He appears to be a horse that easily overwhelmed most people, so it is so nice to see him in your hands.
It will a lovely moment as you grow more confident in your empathy, knowledge and skill. What you are doing with Gaio is beautiful. He is developing from the inside out and people being critical of you are completely missing the point. Love watching your progress with this incredibly beautiful and smart Lusitano. Most people have no idea how sharp, athletic and sensitive a horse like Gaio is and he is blooming with you.
Kein einfaches Pferd, aber mit deiner Ruhe, Geduld und Einfühlungsvermögen wirst Du belohnt werden und stolz auf euch sein! 👍 Das Pferd wird es Dir danken. 🙏🤗
I rarely feel stressed out watching a horse but I can really *feel* his tension and lack of focus and how badly he wants to find things to feel better but his mind keeps resetting to nervousness. It was a huge relief when he finally started blowing, at least, and then really getting a bit more relaxed. He's still unfocused sometimes, but hopefully everything will improve as your connection grows. it's really nice seeing how much you want to take care of his mind. ❤️ Every horse deserves that.
Thankyou for sharing, the fact your so kind and patient with him speaks volumes, the more he comes home with you I'm very sure he will quickly settle becoming more relaxed, Don't listen to those who are negative towards you, as at the end of the day your the one who is training to reach for the goals you want to achieve. Crossing my fingers he will be home with you very soon ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I think its just wonderful you show how he really is/ the challenges he brings/ its really pointless to just show the perfected finished product.. Pointless for those of us that are trying to LEARN... AND Z to those 'perfect Pattys' that feel the'need' to make themselves seem.more important than they really are - they need to go make their own videos showing their particular version of perfection - and then see how it feels to get critical, demeaning comments... For me, im very happy to see your positivity, the process, and you are a very sweet guy - honest, enthusiastic, a joyvto watch, and any horse that ends up in your care is very lucky 😊😊🥰
The part when you're talking about him wanting to look around when you got there and brought him off the truck, so funny, he was like Mr. Ed (waaay before your time) the talking horse from the television show. His lips really got going. You could use him for a ventriloquist act one day! He's adorable. What a sweet boy. And such a boy he is! He's very ADHD until he's working and he really takes that seriously. He's the perfect amound of trouble maker and polished equine. He's just come so far thanks to Jesse. A perfect match.
GAIO is doing AWESOME! He is such a beautiful horse.He really trusts you Jesse,your love,kindness,and patience knows no bounds.I also had to laugh at Antares in the background.He for sure was wondering why his "Papa" was riding another horse. The flowers in front of the arena are called "Cosmos" and are quite pretty. Stay safe and well! xoxo😊😘❤👏🐴🍂🍁🌞🎃😊
I have recently discovered your training and horsemanship skills which are so gentle, kind and relaxing to watch, Gaio and you have an amazing relationship,softness, lengthening and stretching........keep going Jesse xxxxx
My gelding is mouthy the same way! I am just extra careful he doesn't accidentally get my finger or my hand. But I know exactly what you mean. I LOVE GAIO! I always have. He has had a tough background and your patient training is exactly what he needs. He is a beautiful boy. I love all the time you spent walking him. I could see him relaxing in the walk and already making progress. He is a wonderful project for you. I think you did amazing especially with Antares running around. He behaved really well considering Antares running. In the trot you made incredible progress. Responds well to the half halt. He trusts you. Incredible progress in the trot and transition down to walk. He is so talented, and you really look great on him! Love the relaxed reaching down long and low in the canter. Love the work to a bouncier trot and then back and forth and reward reaching down. You look wonderful on him. Thank you for doing this video. I am a bit worried if you turn him out with Antares they might fight. Be really careful no one gets hurt! That just scares me, but I know you will find a safe place for him to be out. You don't want him out with a horse that makes him more anxious. Let us know how that works for him in his turnout. You and Gaio have so much potential! Gaio trusts you. When he was reaching down long and low around 12:26 and on he looks like a happy horse. I don't know who Krun is but that is great if you can both get a lesson with one of Matt's trainers for training purposes and for fun and to get another opinion. But you are on the right track. Would like to see him steady on the outside rein and on your inside leg gently pushing him into the outside rein on corners when bending, so much so that you can hold him on the outside rein even if you let the inside rein loosen as a test to see if you can still hold him on the outside rein contact confirming he is truly in your hands on a true contact. Overall, he responds amazingly well to your training. You will both have so much fun together as he relaxes and continues to enjoy your training sessions. A pleasure to watch. I love watching him bitless. How does he respond to a dropped noseband and snaffle bit? If you want to ride him both ways? But if he is used to a double bridle that would be great for you to use in training also. I think starting him as you are bitless is working so well relaxing him, just follow your gut as to how to continue his training. Your instincts always seem to be 100% right on what the horse needs. Sorry, this was so long. I was just so impressed with your work with Gaio, it was a pleasure to watch.
You two are doing so great. Antares seems to be a little jealous...so much power. Gaio seemed to really like the neckrope. I also found it interesting how he completely calmed down, even more than with the bitless bridle.
He was traumatized and appears to be a very sensitive guy so baggage from the past will take awhile to be healed. I would love to hear what the horse communicator lady could get from him! You’re doing the best for him…don’t listen to critics 😁
@K. Keenan - Jesse is EXACTLY the right person for Gaio. Jesse will teach Gaio that he's a Good Boiii, & that is OK to have fun & relax on a ride. Poor Gaio had too much trauma as a young horse. I think he would really do better & be so much happier at their house, where it's quiet & peaceful. His mind is still very amped up, poor thing.
This video made me surprisingly emotional, uf consistent kind approach is so lovely to c and given his anxious mind I think living at ur home would suit him better than being in a big busy yard anx I'm sure you'll b able to make it work some day, well done to u and gaio
I have been in horses for 30 years, in dressage. You are doing a fantastic job with this very talented horse. Well done. I suspect that why he goes better in the frame when you do some higher level work is that he becomes more thru and over the back. I see a very promising future for you both. 😊
What a beautiful boy! My goodness Gaio is stunning. I feel so badly for him.. His past training and experiences. It makes my heart happy that you love Gaio. Jesse, with you now, Gaio is going to be calmer, less tense and a sweetheart. Please give Gaio lots of love and tenderness. What a beautiful head and face Gaio has. Kathryn from Arizona USA
What an amazing horse... You don't need to justify his behavior.. People who don't understand what is going on with him should read up about bull fighting horses and the traumas they face.. There will always be some people who think they no best despite the fact that they have no experience with horses like this or have no real life knowledge at all. If someone can't understand the journey and what it takes to build up a horse that has been destroyed mentally by humans they just have to scroll al long and keep there hands behind their backs so they can't type any nonsense comments.. You are doing a great job with this beautiful and special boy.. I hope one day your dream will come true and he will be living with you guys at home.. You never know!
Jesse - so happy that you're not so much focused on being show ready right now, but rather, getting Gaio's mind calmed down first. I think it's going to take Gaio quite awhile before he forgets about his Bull Fighting life - but I know you can help him! He's so gorgeous, and with so much power, but I can't wait until he's calm & happy in his stall, at the cross-ties & just chilling out in your pastures. (You can see his mind... and his mouth 🤣 going 1,000 mph, esp. when he's cross-tied, poor thing) Oh my, Antares was SOOOO JEALOUS! 😁 He was saying: "Jesse is MY human, Gaio & don't ever forget it!" Very cute. PS: WOW 🎈🎉🎈 - he did so great with the neck rope!!! Congrats 👏 👏 👏
He’s so sweet & loving & talented :) his prior life created a hyper vigilance wherever he is. You’re not soliciting but I offer my animal insight-To calm him & let him release his impending intense vigilance by a full body medium-soft caress greeting beginning at first sight, stand and breath into his face quietly. Call out to him before you see him to let him know you’re there for him, continue with long caresses while placing the saddle, bridal, arena training, cool down & the return to stall - avoid sharp pat/spanks while mounted or otherwise- not for him, continue the sweet treats - that was awesome. Let him show off & give you a treat with a dressage movement as much as he wants, reward with more treats, & ride bareback, w/out anything, and do your workout & routine. He will melt & you will develop a deep connection- he’s reaching out, you’re almost there, your pace at his direction.
What a beautiful horse. Well done Jesse. He's a doll and really deserves you and your knowledge, with no pressure and great leadership. He is very much like a Andalusian dun filly I am watching learn and grow in the UK. She is Dun and looks exactly like Gaio. Was bred in the UK. I'm enjoying watching your journey with Gaio.
Gaio sounds a lot like my boy. He was sold as a promising dressage horse at just 3 years old but was brought up too quickly and with a lot of trauma. Got to me at 12 and we had to start from scratch. poor guy couldn’t get the difference from walk and piaffe he was so stressed and scared of my aids, expecting them to be punishing and harsh. You’re doing such an incredible job and i’d love to see you work with my George so much 😭
I ride dressage few times a year on Lusitano ́s that do bullfights or have done in Portugal. The horses I have ridden are very relaxed, and only go on at the time of the fight. They are therefore very easy to ride and easy to handle. Some horses are simply not suitable and can indeed better have another life. However, the bullfighter I know is very friendly to his horses and takes very good care of them. He is therefore one of the biggest bullfighter in Portugal. It's a centuries-old tradition that most bullfighters have been doing all their lives and have grown up with. Lusitano ́s are also bred for this kind of work. What we will not soon or will not understand in our horseworld.
I love how you are so thoughtful and mindful of all the horses different personalities and allow them to work through their issues in a very calm positive way, you have help me to incorporate this awareness into my everyday routine with my own equine family, you are an excellent role model.
A perfect relaxing session and just the right amount of time too. We may never know what’s in his head but he certainly calmed down with this simple work-out. Well done Jesse.
Wow! Gaio is doing AMAZING! He has settled down so much and is so much more relaxed and trusting. I was really excited to see him instantly take to the neck rope. Seems with horses who have had forceful and painful aids like he did in such a scary world of ugh....bullfighting, he's really showing his appreciation for you Jesse. You truly are the perfect person for him to spend his life with. I think the next rope is going to be a great success with him after the harshness he had on his face and in his mouth for so long. They use Tom Thumb type bits I would imagine and those have been known to literally cut horses tongues off. Most Western reiners use Tom Thumb bits which is how they learn to go full throttle and stop on a dim with barely a squeeze of the reins. I hate all that stuff. It's so wonderful to watch you empathize with all the things that super impatient trainers would see as a problem. We all know those trainers who freak out the second the horse moves his head with lips open standing and they yank on the reins as hard as they can over and over and back the horse up or puck him or slap him in the face. It's awful. So seeing you UNTRAIN that type of fear and give Gaio a soft, understanding and empathetic relationship that he can trust he won't be hurt by you is HUGE for him. So he's learning quickly how to offer you his appreciation by softening and listening and feeling for you. He's an incredible animal and he's definitely in the right hands. I do hope you get to buy him. You two really belong together. Oh and I hope FEI will do a huge overhaul on their rules and start allowing bitless and even bridleless dressage and disallow spurs because they truly are not necessary if you know how to use your seat and the entire length of your legs. Dressage was always about not showing the aids you're using. You can't speak to your horse and the less movement with still hands and legs was what was so wonderful about it. But I grew up riding in the 80s and did eventing. I never got to the upper level dressage like what Matt does. I had to stop riding due to Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome which wasn't diagnosed until much later. It ripped my soul apart to be forced to make that decision. I didn't realize my injuries and fatigue were from illness. I thought I was burned out from nationals and showing every weekend and going to school full time. I'm 48 now and have just recently been able to watch other people ride and follow my passion and reach my goals and live my dreams. So your videos are so touching to me. You and Matt deserve ALL the amazing things you have coming and you're both well on your way to an extremely bright future. It's already been a whirlwind of greatness for you both and nobody deserves it like you do.
Oh my lord! That is a super cool horse! I love him. He’s so intelligent, yet rolls with what you want to do. You two are going to be stunning together! I thinks there’s a bit of love there too! You can see it in his eyes. He really digs you! 🥰
He is gorgeous, and you can see already the time you have spent with him has paid off. I think it would be the best thing for him to live with you all. Great goal to have.
Jesse, You’re an inspiration watching you effortlessly ride n communicate with Gaio was beautiful human to equine experience. Even if you felt it wasn’t as smooth, it looked so professional !
Thats such a good point about tension or chewing/busy mouth, people always have a comment only seeing a few minutes of a horses journey…it takes years to finish a horses training. Everyone is an expert..especially about other peoples horses😂
Hey Jesse, look up a video called the 24 behaviors indicating body pain by Equitopia and a few of their other educational videos on the subject… . He could very well have pain in his back, legs, and just the setup for riding could get him tense in anticipation of the pain. His willingness to please can hide this stuff. Maybe.. in dont know but its a thought. He certainly still has good bit of tension and that indeed I’m sure has a lot to do with his past. So his behaviors could very well be a combination of both character, past work and lingering pains in the body he tries to avoid… just super happy to see at the house. I really think would be easier to do some free lunging and make sure he burns some energy first You say that to the left he was making changes in canter.. that makes me think again there’s lingering pain more to one side than the other, and therefore he avoids it. I love that you are riding him bitless. Way to go. But I definitely see a lot of signs of lingering pain in his body language. Something to explore and maybe get some specific professional advice on it.
Sweet Gaio is a little neurotic from the harsh treatment he endured when bullfighting. It made him fidgety. Rather than try to “fix” his fidgeting you’re doing the right thing trying to get Gaio home with the herd. His fidgeting will go away on its own once he’s processed the past trauma. Gentle training and the company of other horses is best for that. Blessings!💛🙏🏼🧘🏻♀️
I absolutely love your training style, for lack of a better word. You are so patient and kind with your horses. Very humble. No big ego, driving you to get results as quickly as possible. You are a true horseman and inspiration to me and I'm sure to everyone that follows you. I also want to say that I love this horse!!! I'm assuming he's an Andalusian?
What marvellous progress our favourite friend Gaio is making. He's so lucky to have found a lovely forever home after the horrors of the bullfighting ring. Lovely to see, carry on the good work, Jesse! ❤❤
That last trot you did and he dropped low and relaxed was sooo good. Your so good for him Jesse. All I think of with him is the trauma and experiences of the bull fighting and how he needs someone gentle and patient with him and not someone to put pressure on him.
I laughed so loud when Gaio started doing Spanish Walks as soon as you said you're not trying to be show ready! He was like: "Excuse me speak for yourself. I'm show ready!" lol
👍😆👏👏👏
haha!
11:18
Oh my gosh, I know. SO pretty 💖
I know! What a fancy boy he is! "Did they ALL see me do it Jesse did they did they?!" He's such a childlike boy in that sense. I love his playfulness.
The spanish use big heavy bits and a noseband with spikes which is a sereta. They are barbaric and cause a lot of pain!! Some horses are scarred for life. So its so nice that he can now live an a normal horse and get plenty of love. The bond will become unbreakable.❤❤
When you consider that Gaio had to be constantly on the alert and ready to react when facing a distressed bull, you can easily forgive any tension he manifests. I think you doing a wonderful job with him, Jesse.
Was good to see he stayed engaged with you when the other horse kept running up.
Gaio is such a wonderful horse. He gives you all he has and tries so hard to please. Love that.
You have an incredible gift of love with your animals, it is beautiful to watch.
Gaio seems to be very expresive and honest about how he feels.
So funny with Antares carrying on, when you were riding Gaio in the arena ... whilst none of the other horses were reacting. Unfortunate you don't have a larger property to allow for more horses ... as your mentally towards horses is akin to running an equestrian rescue. You display such compassion for horses in general ... similar to the man who now cares for Sureno. Both of you have a deep love and compassion for horses and a desire to be the kindest and least intrusive with respect to setting your will upon horses, while maintaining a sense of control with the horses' cooperation ... if that makes any sense. It seems to be the most popular equestrian RUclips channels are the ones whereby kindness and compassion is the priority ... whether it be through equestrian riding, husbandry and/or rescue. I think it'll be nice once Gaio comes to live at your facility ... hopefully he'll be able to chill more.
Gaio’s mouthing and lip play are at least loose and mostly relaxed, no tension or jaw clenching I can see - and his eyes are so expressive, no fear. I think he’s a very mentally active boy and looks for lots of mental / physical stimulation. Your idea of moving him home for a while sounds great, if you can get them all accepting each other! Best of luck with your gorgeous Gaio, Jesse!!
Good to know!
I love these videos because Jesse talks about the individual psychology of each horse in this very gentle, very intuitive way, but without falling into that awful, fluffy woo you get with a lot of "natural" trainers in the US. This is the kind of empathy I expect from somebody much older, and it's great.
I actually subscribed to Horse World TV for just this reason, and was very glad to see that it appears there too.
Thank you. :)
Gaio looks so happy there.
Oh I vote for you bringing this boy home. He needs a regular schedule of you touching him and reassuring him and letting him know that he can be the horse he knows he is under your careful kind hand. He is absolutely beautiful. He’s acting like a horse that is just barely broke
If anyone can show Gaio a happier life it's you Jesse. He's such a gorgeous horse, an I hope Gaio and Anteras can be friends. Thank you for taking us along, see you soon!
Gaio is such an intelligent dude, and burst my sides laughing when he broke into the spanish walk unaided ... he's a hoot. He looked so much more relaxed at the end of the session. You have such patience, understanding and love for all your animals, it's a joy to see. Loved, loved loved this video and can't wait to see more from this outstanding boy.
Accept Gaio as he is now. Trauma literally changes the way the brain is wired. The damages he went thro back then will leave permanent "scars". Some will be healed, some can be healed and some can not. So accept him as he is now because he is his best now with what he have ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I love how calm and patient you are.
Jesse is such kind loving guy ...his patience and respectful interaction with the Horses is impressive 👏
Thanks Jesse 😊
Lovely, smart, goofy, ADHD baby! I imagine that he is talking really fast when he's wiggling his lip, and it cracks me up 😄🐎
i'm so glad you are working with him. we all have our pasts and its harder for horses to understand and let go. bravo to you.
Imagine always expecting a fierce bull to appear!! So glad u got him.
I cannot imagine what that must have been like for him. How wonderful that his life has taken a very different turn.
I love that you’re giving him time to relax his mind.
Yes! 👍👏👏👏 Gaio really needs to learn he is finally safe & he doesn't need to be on high alert all the time now. Can only imagine what he went through at his Bull Fighting stable.... yelling, harsh bits, getting whipped, very sharp spurs, metal, sawtooth nose bands. 😱😱😱 TG, he's in for his Best Life with Jesse!!!
I have huge respect for your style of teaching and riding! You really treat the horses with so much respect and it's a joy to watch! :)
I say it every time I see him, but I’m going to say it again. Gaio is such a beautiful horse. His color is so beautiful contrasting with the black furnishings. I really hope he makes it home permanently one day.
Wow. He is such an amazing horse! I can't imagine how scary his life was when he had to fight bulls, no wonder he couldn't relax before. You have an amazing gift Jesse, your calm, loving presence is healing him. I'm so happy you are together! 🥰❤️
What a super intelligent horse! You can see his brain ticking all the time. Lovely seeing him relax into that trot and staying there. I like his head position too. He is so lucky to have a patient rider like you Jesse. He has come a long way already...
What a beautiful red horse float 😍
He's beautiful. I'm so glad after his bull fighting days :( that he has now found himself with you Jesse:)
It was so funny when Gaio started eating the flowers! Hopefully Matt won't notice haha!
Jesse, what a wonderful horse Gaio is becoming with you now. ❤. So good to see him relaxing more under your empathy and patience. Perhaps liberty work will be good for him, he is so intelligent. Your property would suit him like you say quieter and chilled. People forget how far our energy fields around us expand to and hustle and bustle may still remind him about the bull fighting days. Wishing you both many happy memories with Gaio at home with you, ask the Universe to provide the way to achieve this........ dreams do come true .
Gaio looks so much more relaxed than your first video with him - you can tell he tries so hard to please. Such a good boy ❤️
Great job Jessie and Gaio! You two look like you’re developing a wonderful partnership❤ So happy for you both 😊
He's an extremely handsome boy 😍 bullfighting horse 🐴 no wonder he's stressed, poor baby 😍
So impressed by how calm and steady you are able to remain even through his anxious, edgey behaviors!
Seems like he is talking with his lips. What a character! Handsome as heck!
He's such a beautiful boy. I hope all your dreams come true with him.
Your patience with Gaio is absolutely admirable. He appears to be a horse that easily overwhelmed most people, so it is so nice to see him in your hands.
It will a lovely moment as you grow more confident in your empathy, knowledge and skill. What you are doing with Gaio is beautiful. He is developing from the inside out and people being critical of you are completely missing the point. Love watching your progress with this incredibly beautiful and smart Lusitano. Most people have no idea how sharp, athletic and sensitive a horse like Gaio is and he is blooming with you.
His lips moving are sooo cute 😭😭 I CAN'T
Kein einfaches Pferd, aber mit deiner Ruhe, Geduld und Einfühlungsvermögen wirst Du belohnt werden und stolz auf euch sein! 👍 Das Pferd wird es Dir danken. 🙏🤗
Love how you are with Gaio. He is so lucky to belong to you.
I rarely feel stressed out watching a horse but I can really *feel* his tension and lack of focus and how badly he wants to find things to feel better but his mind keeps resetting to nervousness. It was a huge relief when he finally started blowing, at least, and then really getting a bit more relaxed. He's still unfocused sometimes, but hopefully everything will improve as your connection grows. it's really nice seeing how much you want to take care of his mind. ❤️ Every horse deserves that.
Thankyou for sharing, the fact your so kind and patient with him speaks volumes, the more he comes home with you I'm very sure he will quickly settle becoming more relaxed,
Don't listen to those who are negative towards you, as at the end of the day your the one who is training to reach for the goals you want to achieve.
Crossing my fingers he will be home with you very soon ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Gaio really enjoys being with Jesse
It's soo nice to see horse and rider with a true friendship.
I love Jessa videos
I think its just wonderful you show how he really is/ the challenges he brings/ its really pointless to just show the perfected finished product..
Pointless for those of us that are trying to LEARN...
AND Z to those 'perfect Pattys' that feel the'need' to make themselves seem.more important than they really are - they need to go make their own videos showing their particular version of perfection - and then see how it feels to get critical, demeaning comments...
For me, im very happy to see your positivity, the process, and you are a very sweet guy - honest, enthusiastic, a joyvto watch, and any horse that ends up in your care is very lucky 😊😊🥰
You are such a great human being - I admire so much what you have done for this, frankly, abused horse, and how patient you are with him
The part when you're talking about him wanting to look around when you got there and brought him off the truck, so funny, he was like Mr. Ed (waaay before your time) the talking horse from the television show. His lips really got going. You could use him for a ventriloquist act one day! He's adorable. What a sweet boy. And such a boy he is! He's very ADHD until he's working and he really takes that seriously. He's the perfect amound of trouble maker and polished equine. He's just come so far thanks to Jesse. A perfect match.
GAIO is doing AWESOME! He is such a beautiful horse.He really trusts you Jesse,your love,kindness,and patience knows no bounds.I also had to laugh at Antares in the background.He for sure was wondering why his "Papa" was riding another horse. The flowers in front of the arena are called "Cosmos" and are quite pretty. Stay safe and well! xoxo😊😘❤👏🐴🍂🍁🌞🎃😊
I really enjoy Gaio's journey and this just proves he's worth it!! 🥰🥰
I have recently discovered your training and horsemanship skills which are so gentle, kind and relaxing to watch, Gaio and you have an amazing relationship,softness, lengthening and stretching........keep going Jesse xxxxx
My gelding is mouthy the same way! I am just extra careful he doesn't accidentally get my finger or my hand. But I know exactly what you mean. I LOVE GAIO! I always have. He has had a tough background and your patient training is exactly what he needs. He is a beautiful boy. I love all the time you spent walking him. I could see him relaxing in the walk and already making progress. He is a wonderful project for you. I think you did amazing especially with Antares running around. He behaved really well considering Antares running. In the trot you made incredible progress. Responds well to the half halt. He trusts you. Incredible progress in the trot and transition down to walk. He is so talented, and you really look great on him! Love the relaxed reaching down long and low in the canter. Love the work to a bouncier trot and then back and forth and reward reaching down. You look wonderful on him. Thank you for doing this video. I am a bit worried if you turn him out with Antares they might fight. Be really careful no one gets hurt! That just scares me, but I know you will find a safe place for him to be out. You don't want him out with a horse that makes him more anxious. Let us know how that works for him in his turnout. You and Gaio have so much potential! Gaio trusts you. When he was reaching down long and low around 12:26 and on he looks like a happy horse. I don't know who Krun is but that is great if you can both get a lesson with one of Matt's trainers for training purposes and for fun and to get another opinion. But you are on the right track. Would like to see him steady on the outside rein and on your inside leg gently pushing him into the outside rein on corners when bending, so much so that you can hold him on the outside rein even if you let the inside rein loosen as a test to see if you can still hold him on the outside rein contact confirming he is truly in your hands on a true contact. Overall, he responds amazingly well to your training. You will both have so much fun together as he relaxes and continues to enjoy your training sessions. A pleasure to watch. I love watching him bitless. How does he respond to a dropped noseband and snaffle bit? If you want to ride him both ways? But if he is used to a double bridle that would be great for you to use in training also. I think starting him as you are bitless is working so well relaxing him, just follow your gut as to how to continue his training. Your instincts always seem to be 100% right on what the horse needs. Sorry, this was so long. I was just so impressed with your work with Gaio, it was a pleasure to watch.
You two are doing so great. Antares seems to be a little jealous...so much power. Gaio seemed to really like the neckrope. I also found it interesting how he completely calmed down, even more than with the bitless bridle.
He was traumatized and appears to be a very sensitive guy so baggage from the past will take awhile to be healed. I would love to hear what the horse communicator lady could get from him! You’re doing the best for him…don’t listen to critics 😁
@K. Keenan - Jesse is EXACTLY the right person for Gaio. Jesse will teach Gaio that he's a Good Boiii, & that is OK to have fun & relax on a ride. Poor Gaio had too much trauma as a young horse. I think he would really do better & be so much happier at their house, where it's quiet & peaceful. His mind is still very amped up, poor thing.
This video made me surprisingly emotional, uf consistent kind approach is so lovely to c and given his anxious mind I think living at ur home would suit him better than being in a big busy yard anx I'm sure you'll b able to make it work some day, well done to u and gaio
Love THIS! Look at the difference in how he carries his head on the trot with only the neck rope... His whole face is calm. WOW!
I have been in horses for 30 years, in dressage. You are doing a fantastic job with this very talented horse. Well done. I suspect that why he goes better in the frame when you do some higher level work is that he becomes more thru and over the back. I see a very promising future for you both. 😊
What a beautiful boy! My goodness Gaio is stunning.
I feel so badly for him.. His past training and experiences. It makes my heart happy that you love Gaio. Jesse, with you now, Gaio is going to be calmer, less tense and a sweetheart. Please give Gaio lots of love and tenderness. What a beautiful head and face Gaio has. Kathryn from Arizona USA
I have such a soft spot for Gaio. He has such a huge personality.
What an amazing horse... You don't need to justify his behavior.. People who don't understand what is going on with him should read up about bull fighting horses and the traumas they face.. There will always be some people who think they no best despite the fact that they have no experience with horses like this or have no real life knowledge at all. If someone can't understand the journey and what it takes to build up a horse that has been destroyed mentally by humans they just have to scroll al long and keep there hands behind their backs so they can't type any nonsense comments.. You are doing a great job with this beautiful and special boy.. I hope one day your dream will come true and he will be living with you guys at home.. You never know!
Gaio is so expressive. One of a kind.
You are so patient with him. He is a changed horse.
When he does that Spanish Walk he’s so Handsome 😊❤
Jesse - so happy that you're not so much focused on being show ready right now, but rather, getting Gaio's mind calmed down first. I think it's going to take Gaio quite awhile before he forgets about his Bull Fighting life - but I know you can help him! He's so gorgeous, and with so much power, but I can't wait until he's calm & happy in his stall, at the cross-ties & just chilling out in your pastures. (You can see his mind... and his mouth 🤣 going 1,000 mph, esp. when he's cross-tied, poor thing) Oh my, Antares was SOOOO JEALOUS! 😁 He was saying: "Jesse is MY human, Gaio & don't ever forget it!" Very cute. PS: WOW 🎈🎉🎈 - he did so great with the neck rope!!! Congrats 👏 👏 👏
He’s so sweet & loving & talented :) his prior life created a hyper vigilance wherever he is. You’re not soliciting but I offer my animal insight-To calm him & let him release his impending intense vigilance by a full body medium-soft caress greeting beginning at first sight, stand and breath into his face quietly. Call out to him before you see him to let him know you’re there for him, continue with long caresses while placing the saddle, bridal, arena training, cool down & the return to stall - avoid sharp pat/spanks while mounted or otherwise- not for him, continue the sweet treats - that was awesome. Let him show off & give you a treat with a dressage movement as much as he wants, reward with more treats, & ride bareback, w/out anything, and do your workout & routine. He will melt & you will develop a deep connection- he’s reaching out, you’re almost there, your pace at his direction.
What a beautiful horse. Well done Jesse. He's a doll and really deserves you and your knowledge, with no pressure and great leadership. He is very much like a Andalusian dun filly I am watching learn and grow in the UK. She is Dun and looks exactly like Gaio. Was bred in the UK. I'm enjoying watching your journey with Gaio.
Lovely Lovely ! Gio is - inside and out . 💙🐎😎
Gaio sounds a lot like my boy. He was sold as a promising dressage horse at just 3 years old but was brought up too quickly and with a lot of trauma. Got to me at 12 and we had to start from scratch. poor guy couldn’t get the difference from walk and piaffe he was so stressed and scared of my aids, expecting them to be punishing and harsh. You’re doing such an incredible job and i’d love to see you work with my George so much 😭
Jesse if everyone would love their horses like you it would be wonderful.
Thank you
God bless you
It is such a privilege to get a small insight into your horsemanship philosophy. You lead your horses with such grace and empathy.
I ride dressage few times a year on Lusitano ́s that do bullfights or have done in Portugal.
The horses I have ridden are very relaxed, and only go on at the time of the fight. They are therefore very easy to ride and easy to handle.
Some horses are simply not suitable and can indeed better have another life.
However, the bullfighter I know is very friendly to his horses and takes very good care of them. He is therefore one of the biggest bullfighter in Portugal.
It's a centuries-old tradition that most bullfighters have been doing all their lives and have grown up with. Lusitano ́s are also bred for this kind of work.
What we will not soon or will not understand in our horseworld.
Magnificent horse! Beautiful, muscular build and his movement is gorgeous. He seems VERY intelligent, probably adds to the restlessness.
I love how you are so thoughtful and mindful of all the horses different personalities and allow them to work through their issues in a very calm positive way, you have help me to incorporate this awareness into my everyday routine with my own equine family, you are an excellent role model.
You are kind and understanding and take your time, lovely💕💕💕
A perfect relaxing session and just the right amount of time too. We may never know what’s in his head but he certainly calmed down with this simple work-out. Well done Jesse.
Wow! Gaio is doing AMAZING! He has settled down so much and is so much more relaxed and trusting. I was really excited to see him instantly take to the neck rope. Seems with horses who have had forceful and painful aids like he did in such a scary world of ugh....bullfighting, he's really showing his appreciation for you Jesse. You truly are the perfect person for him to spend his life with. I think the next rope is going to be a great success with him after the harshness he had on his face and in his mouth for so long. They use Tom Thumb type bits I would imagine and those have been known to literally cut horses tongues off. Most Western reiners use Tom Thumb bits which is how they learn to go full throttle and stop on a dim with barely a squeeze of the reins. I hate all that stuff.
It's so wonderful to watch you empathize with all the things that super impatient trainers would see as a problem. We all know those trainers who freak out the second the horse moves his head with lips open standing and they yank on the reins as hard as they can over and over and back the horse up or puck him or slap him in the face. It's awful.
So seeing you UNTRAIN that type of fear and give Gaio a soft, understanding and empathetic relationship that he can trust he won't be hurt by you is HUGE for him. So he's learning quickly how to offer you his appreciation by softening and listening and feeling for you. He's an incredible animal and he's definitely in the right hands. I do hope you get to buy him. You two really belong together.
Oh and I hope FEI will do a huge overhaul on their rules and start allowing bitless and even bridleless dressage and disallow spurs because they truly are not necessary if you know how to use your seat and the entire length of your legs. Dressage was always about not showing the aids you're using. You can't speak to your horse and the less movement with still hands and legs was what was so wonderful about it. But I grew up riding in the 80s and did eventing. I never got to the upper level dressage like what Matt does. I had to stop riding due to Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome which wasn't diagnosed until much later. It ripped my soul apart to be forced to make that decision. I didn't realize my injuries and fatigue were from illness. I thought I was burned out from nationals and showing every weekend and going to school full time.
I'm 48 now and have just recently been able to watch other people ride and follow my passion and reach my goals and live my dreams. So your videos are so touching to me. You and Matt deserve ALL the amazing things you have coming and you're both well on your way to an extremely bright future. It's already been a whirlwind of greatness for you both and nobody deserves it like you do.
Oh my lord! That is a super cool horse! I love him. He’s so intelligent, yet rolls with what you want to do. You two are going to be stunning together! I thinks there’s a bit of love there too! You can see it in his eyes. He really digs you! 🥰
You look great together 😊
He is gorgeous, and you can see already the time you have spent with him has paid off. I think it would be the best thing for him to live with you all. Great goal to have.
Giao is art in progress. He is lucky to have you. Your patience will, in time let him relax. Beautiful guy is his.
Gaio handled the neck rope well! Antares was a hoot!
I absolutely adore this boy - Love seeing him. Laughed watching Antares playing up to him.
Jesse, You’re an inspiration watching you effortlessly ride n communicate with Gaio was beautiful human to equine experience. Even if you felt it wasn’t as smooth, it looked so professional !
Thats such a good point about tension or chewing/busy mouth, people always have a comment only seeing a few minutes of a horses journey…it takes years to finish a horses training. Everyone is an expert..especially about other peoples horses😂
I just adore Gaio...reminds me of a horse book from kidhood about a buckskin saved from the bullring, too. "The Rogue".
Hey Jesse, look up a video called the 24 behaviors indicating body pain by Equitopia and a few of their other educational videos on the subject… . He could very well have pain in his back, legs, and just the setup for riding could get him tense in anticipation of the pain. His willingness to please can hide this stuff. Maybe.. in dont know but its a thought. He certainly still has good bit of tension and that indeed I’m sure has a lot to do with his past. So his behaviors could very well be a combination of both character, past work and lingering pains in the body he tries to avoid… just super happy to see at the house. I really think would be easier to do some free lunging and make sure he burns some energy first
You say that to the left he was making changes in canter.. that makes me think again there’s lingering pain more to one side than the other, and therefore he avoids it.
I love that you are riding him bitless. Way to go. But I definitely see a lot of signs of lingering pain in his body language. Something to explore and maybe get some specific professional advice on it.
Its so good showing all the process. The patience. The repetition. The love. He is lovely. Antares outraged!
“We’ll need to put pillows around them!”
Jesse - you are beyond Adorable!!
What an extremely lucky horse that you have taken him on Jesse you are and will be all he needs!! 🤩🤩👏👏🇦🇺🇦🇺
I also think he would appreciate it as it would relax him and you
He lost his mouthiness with the neck rein!! Awesome for him!!!!
WOW. What a gorgeous horse! I can see he's a busy horse, but it looks like a fun challenge!
He is beautiful ! I love his personality.
so glad your using a bitless bridle, how wonderful for giao
He’s a beautiful horse ❤.
Sweet Gaio is a little neurotic from the harsh treatment he endured when bullfighting. It made him fidgety. Rather than try to “fix” his fidgeting you’re doing the right thing trying to get Gaio home with the herd. His fidgeting will go away on its own once he’s processed the past trauma. Gentle training and the company of other horses is best for that. Blessings!💛🙏🏼🧘🏻♀️
💙🙏💙🙏💙🙏💙🙏💙🙏💙. Thank You Jesse, so exciting!
Wow that horse is so beautiful and what a character! I love his personality.
I absolutely love your training style, for lack of a better word. You are so patient and kind with your horses. Very humble. No big ego, driving you to get results as quickly as possible. You are a true horseman and inspiration to me and I'm sure to everyone that follows you. I also want to say that I love this horse!!! I'm assuming he's an Andalusian?
he's such a pretty horse