I took my harness out to the barn today and put is on Paisano. It’s been nearly three years since he wore it. He took it all well, even the crupper. I took him in the indoor first and tried his rump bells. They are really loud. (Here’s a video from soon after I got them.) The horses in stalls next to the arena were a little spooked, so I took them off. Paisano could have cared less. He was great! He responded well to voice commands and willingly kept to his trot, doing circles and serpentines. Next we went outside to get some better photos.
The harness needs fine tuning for fit. I would also like to get a new bridle. This one is a bit crudely made. I saw a beautiful Zilco driving bridle at the Driving Essentials booth at the Inavale CDE. I’ll also be shopping for a driving bit for him. And what I really need is a session with a driving trainer and a cart to hitch him. I think that he is very ready!
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He looks so good. Have you had him in training shafts yet? How did he do there?
Yes, I made a set out of PVC. He was fine with them. I’ve also had him drag a tire and even tied a sack of cans dragging behind that. There is a video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAg5-5wNVac&feature=PlayList&p=A447EDC58D716040
He looks great! I’ve purchased from both Driving Essentials back east and Carriage Driving Essentials in California (the one at Inavale) and they’re both very nice vendors. Celine carries some wonderful products and it was so nice to get to see her twice this year.
I have done business with both as well. I think that my bridle should work okay on Vinnie. I just have to get him comforable with a bit first.
Paisano ships to Utah on 11/7, so I’m not working on driving with him any longer.