It’s great to see you admit that your horse may be stressed, many people don’t do that out of pride etc. but with you admitting is shows how much you care and can read your horses. Very lucky horse to have met you❤️
Agree nice to hear you say this. Most people don't know when a horse could be stressed. Great video Matt and Jesse. Great video can't wait to see more.
I can see the wonderful to see jusy how much Matt has progressed through the time that I have been watching him and would you look at Etro's head carrage. They all will go far I feel.
Yes, I was so relieved when they said that he’s not looking that well in his face expression and that he’s sensitive. My first thought when I saw him in the beginning of the video was that his eyes looked veeery sad, quit depressed and concerned with the big holes above of his eyes and his look
You have to stop including every spanish rider, you are selling that everybody do things like that, and its not true. In spain we have all that you have in your barn
Hey Matt! So I’m a Certified Equine Massage Therapist over in the US and you mentioned around 8:27 about his difficulty bending to the left but lack of give going to the right. That happens when the muscles in the right side of the neck are stiff or tight in some way making the stretching of those muscles (bending head to left) more difficult. That stiffness also leads to what you’re probably feeling with the lack of engagement/block on the right rein because those muscles aren’t able to activate and stretch out properly. I’ve seen it many times on horses I’ve worked on. Hope this helps! 😊
My physio always looks to the opposite side to where the issue seems. So my horse was tight on the left rib cage so making riding on the right rein harder as he had to stretch those muscles through the bend. A lay person would think the issue was on the right. X
When I got my mare she was blocked it’s almost like her soul was broken 11 years later she’s such a character and not broken anymore it’s amazing to see the change !
He is gorgeous! The mouth thing is stress. Seems pretty common for the breed to shut down and internalise stress, and have mouth issues like lip smacking, licking or putting their tongue out, and not just during riding. My PRE used to lick frantically when he felt scared or stressed. It is a self soothing behaviour, like kids sucking their thumb. 💙
Wonder how it would be to ride him bitless! He is clearly very sensitive and eager to please... the metal bit makes it harder for him to relax. It also contributed to his stress that you were talking non stop... on his first ride with you! His thoughts were : Matt is such a nice caring new master, but I wish he would just talk to me today and not to the whole world at the same time too! 😗
Etro (sp?) is definitely pretty chill for a stallion, but I can definitely see the block in his eyes. It's like he is there but he is not really responding to the two humans standing near him. Hopefully he will brighten up and become more responsive.
@@c5ster Yes! I’m from Spain, and most equestrian centres and breeding centres keep the horses isolated in a stall 24/7. There are rare cases of equestrian centres that turn out the horses during the day, but it’s not the most common thing. We are fighting for a change, and there are more and more people each year trying to make a difference for the horses wellbeing. Also, talking about PRE horses, south Spain (specifically Andalucia) is the most “traditional” area, and mistreating animals is normalized there. I’m from Galicia (northern Spain), and here we are getting a lot of poeple and centres where the horses live in liberty 24/7, with a herd, and are treated species accordingly! I hope we continue getting better!
The lip thing most likely is stress. I ride an Andalusian who also appears calm but is super sensitive and he tends to get chompy on the bit when he is stressed. I've known him for a while so I can get a good sense when there is a change in his energy. And as soon as he's stressed he does that same lip thing or heavily chews the bit.
Just wondering about his lip movement, have you tried riding him without the flash? Refreshing to hear you mention stress. It is so true for horses that have been purchased and had their world turned upside down to experience a lot of stress. I am sure he will grow in his confidence as you give him his space to do so💖
I absolutely love how you acknowledge the block that new horses have. It's so important to allow horses to feel free to communicate! All 3 of my horses had pasts that left them shut down. One took 2.5 years to unblock!
stress = self soothing, hence the lip smacking. Your awareness to this will be so helpful in unlocking his blocks. Exactly what you were talking about earlier.
Honest Question: Why still use the flash strap? Such an old remain from military times for inexpirienced rider. The little upsides it has comes with many downsides, laying on nerves, hindering breathing and opening the mouth/chewing unhindered. I know quite some spanish horses which are very very sensitive around the nose and hate the addition strap - also work way better with a mexican figure 8. Maybe it would feel better for him too?
the block you were talking about is pretty much exactly learned helplessness, many many riders accidently cause it to happen and imo all horses that are "bomb proof" are just horses in such deep learned helplessness that they just dont react to anything anymore.. Etro is such a beautiful horse and mad respect to you for admitting it might be stress why hes fiddling with his mouth, cant wait to see how he turns out in a few months time😍
People never talk about learned helplessness. In Horses dogs etc. In therapy you see it all the time. And when a bully says look I sorted this or that and you watch videos or first jhand and know the animal has shut down to objecting because no body listens to it. The fear is, with this kind of close down it can eruptt at any time
Aww, my first thought was how beautiful he is. Then my second thought was how sad and worried he looked. I’m so glad you guys acknowledged it! It makes me feel he’s in great hands, which I already knew, but anyway…. ❤
Jesse, the way you explained how horses put up blocks to protect themselves...I now realise I have seen that in nearly every single horse I've ever met. I was never sure what I was seeing until now. Just always knew the horse was not happy. Thank you, you have a golden heart and soul 💛
I noticed when J was rubbing his shoulder , he started chewing , that’s a sign of relief and relaxation .. my horses do that when they get adjustments and massages . I know then its working. Love the video today so interesting on what to do and look for in a new horse . Txs
The awesome bit here is educating people about physio dentist etc. I love that you shown that as so many people miss this part of horse ownership. Awesome Matt
I totally agree with the blockage in the horse itself. My mare had it too. She was there but not completely. Scared to open up and protecting herself from getting 'hurt / damaged' again. Now she is such a lovely horse, wants to work, makes mistakes and tells me when its all too much for her!❤
Matt is really good at explaining the potential underlying issues, the horse's current abilities, or lack thereof, and not just where he wants to get him - but WHAT he is doing to get there, and I am really excited to watch his progression, and his personality develop as he gets to be a loved and relaxed horse! So much potential in him, and I feel like I will learn a lot from watching these two work together!
He has such a kind eye Matt, he is so genuine and looks like he gives you everything he has. I know why you fell so hard for him. Honestly if we could have WEEKLY UPDATES THAT WOULD BE THE MOST AMAZING JOURNEY YOU COULD SHARE WITH EVERYONE!!! So very happy for you!!!!
This horse has landed on all 4 hooves coming to you guys- you're both so sensitive to the horse's character, way of going, and physical/mental needs. Wonderful to see such thoroughness, careful pace, and kindness combined with skill and knowledge. Lovely Lovely horse with amazing character and paces to match- what a find!! 👍👍⭐⭐
I actually REALLY like these videos where you tell us what you're doing. It's like eye candy, watching your beautiful dressage horses soften and strengthen.
He looks like a lovely horse! I feel that maybe his mouthyness would improve if you loosened the flash a little bit or removed it altogether. This was helpful with my mare at least. She used to have the same problem at first and having the freedom to open her mouth calmed her down significantly!
He is majestic. I love his size and fullness. Great composition. You all really have a gift and talent for horses and choosing them. I have not had horses in my life for over 45 years and I am thoroughly enjoying watching you around your horses on your travels to find your horses and everything that y'all do thank you for letting me be a part of it
Etro moves so beautifully and he is so powerfully built! I'm happy you understand he is also a sensitive horse, and yes, his eyes show that he is shut down to some extent, he seems concerned about what his new life will be like. I think you should ask the horse communicator with whom you have worked to come and communicate with him, she was so amazing, and the info she discovered by communicating with your other horses seemed so helpful! Etro is an amazing special horse, I see why you chose him!
I’m a psychic who counsels people, but I occasionally communicate with animals - mostly dogs with behavior issues. My friend is a veterinary chiropractor who works with the police horses in our city, and I have accompanied her in her work to do some communicating there, especially after a horse has been in a traumatic situation. So I’ve had a little experience communicating with horses. I would like to second Katya’s suggestion that you involve your animal communicator (the one who spoke with Emporio) in getting to know Etro deeply, and communicating your intentions to him. She could also do a bit of healing. She doesn’t have to be there to do her work. Your gorgeous horse has a story to tell. I believe he has had some negative experiences in his past that have been deliberately hidden. Those inspired him to release a powerful desire to be owned and ridden by a kind, patient, compassionate, skilled person like you. That desire matched your desire for a horse like him, and the universe created the rendezvous. “A match made in heaven” so to speak. He’s still anxious and wary, as you noted. Eventually he should relax and be able to enjoy himself fully with you, but the process would be SO much faster and easier with that lovely lady’sA assistance. Congratulations on Etro. I love your videos. It’s such a joy to see animals with good people like you and Jesse.
I have used an Animal Communicator for one senior dog who had physical issues and I needed her to "communicate" to me about her situation. Her answers steered me in the proper direction and we ended up doing acupuncture which gave her tremendous relief. I also called upon the AC to help with my cat who had not shown up for 2 days. I knew something out of the ordinary had happened. She explained; I listened. Issue resolved 2 days later when he came home with an injured paw and nose ... exactly what I had been told. I'm going to be contacting her again very soon to have her communicate with one of my horses who was seriously mistreated. Need as many details as Mac is willing to provide and verification regarding his assailant. Matt does have an Animal Communicator that he uses for his horses and I feel certain that he will go this route if he feels it's necessary. He wouldn't hesitate. He would give his last dime for the betterment of his beloved horses!!
Etro is an amazing horse. I love his compact build and the way his neck gracefully arches. I can imagine it on a coin. His brown coloring reminds me of a glass of cognac. It is a misnomer to say it's just brown as there is light, dark and reddish hues. I was mesmerized by it during the ride. I also cannot wait to see his personality emerge. But with all the love and attention you bring, he can't help but come around quickly. Thanks for sharing your journey!
Fairytale ending! I’m so happy for you, that everything worked and you finally got your dream horse. The two of you look beautiful together and he is absolutely stunning 😍 I can’t wait to watch his progress. And yes, please show Emporio! It feels like forever ♾ since you’ve showed a riding update and what you have been working on.
Even with your first ride, it already looks like you’ve made such a great start towards working through the things that Etro struggles with. Words can’t even begin to describe how happy it makes me that both you and Jesse have such a soft and patient approach when it comes to training and retraining your horses. The partnerships you both have with your animals is truly incredible to see! I look forward to seeing the rest of your journey with him 🙌
It’s wonderful to see Jesse back in your videos. I always appreciate the input is incredible wisdom. Together you two are magic 🪄 I really enjoyed seeing Etro! Such a magnificent horse!
Jesse was also sharing that he has some ticks, too….HE is also sensitive! Etro is a gorgeous bay…you both look marvelous and I look forward to your journey.
Hi Matt, I don't have a horse or ride but watching you work with your horses is memorising. I found myself concentrating on every movement you did as you were talking through it. Thank you for being such a caring person to your animals. Loving them as your children. The only way it should be. You and Jesse are amazing role models. xx PS I am an Australian and I can see just how much you love it when you get a bit a summer weather.
I love this type of video, in depth training play-by-play and what you’re trying to achieve. More of this, please! Edit: forgot to say, he’s a freakin’ beautiful horse and I’m so happy you found each other. I just hope Emporio doesn’t get too jealous or insecure. Please keep on loving him too!
Matt, he's a lovely horse. Congratulations for getting him. One observation if I might...he isn't chill, he is very subdued. It's almost as though he's afraid. I wonder if he was treated harshly if not actually abused where he came from. If so, it will take time for him to learn to trust you. Fortunately, you and Jesse are the best possible horse owners.
Yeah that's the impression I got as well, a lot of PREs from Spain seem to be this way sadly, they don't treat them very well, often keeping them isolated 24/7. Their spirits get broken that way, where they don't even react to anything around them, aka "learned helplessness". I hope it goes well for them, Etro is in good hands!
Thank you both for explaining the block. With time and allowing the horse to self release at his own pace is a beautiful thing to witness. Just go on with your day together as you normally would with any of your other equines and watch then blossom. You and Jesse are a good team
Love the video and already looking forward to your monthly updates! please don't forget to let us see Emporio, too. We fell in love with him when you got him and would love to see how he's getting on!
Yes, the horse has a look in his eyes that I thought was sadness, and now you say it, he has shut himself down. Poor fella, he is finding the change to new home a lot to cope with? I hope he settles in asap and becomes a happier horse. I'm sure he will with such lovely care from you and Jesse.
Matt, such a great first ride. I’m learning so much through watching your videos. Looking forward to following Etro’s progress- thank you from Australia for sharing all things equine from all over the world. ( Africa was great by the way- I really loved that you filmed your trip including all the inside details along the way, from the flight, to seeing where the horses are kept in their Lion-proof enclosure, to Jesse’s insect phobia. It’s your great rapport and sense of fun that really bring your videos to life. Thank you.
He’s sooooo gorgeous Matt. It warms my heart the way you both see into the horses soul. You both get it !!!!?? I showed horses and dogs. I would love sitting with a litter of puppies to learn all their different personalities. With one of my Belgian Drafts, Ginger ,was blocked. Then one day I figured it out. Her previous owner use to go out into the barn and play his fiddle for them. He was a very kind soul. So I bought a CD player and some fiddle music. It was like magic, she missed him so much. That’s when she opened up to me. You both are a true blessing💕💓💗
Matt, Your horse is so beautiful. You can see he truely is trying to do what you are asking. Thank you so much for sharing your journey.I wish you many blessings with your new partner!😊
He's a beautiful horse Matt and I wish you well with him. I look forward to seeing both of you getting to know each other and becoming a great partnership. It's so informative when you tell us as your schooling what you're doing and what you're hoping to achieve. Must say you have a lovely easy to understand way of imparting knowledge and could very easily make an excellent instructor if you choose to train to do it professionally. I so admire both of you the way you love and care for your horses. You are both very thoughtful kind men who always put the care and comfort of your horses first.
Jesse giving his honest opinion "he could be a nice police horse . . ." Matt on his premium priced spanish thoroughbred, in disbelief and slightly offended "What do you mean ? Hes a powerhouse dressage horse . . . . !" Lmao !
absolutely love how you explain everything you're doing with him!! incredibly educational, and also great to see how you work with and care for your horses! can't wait to see his progress!
Hes Gorgeous! Hes just nervous being in a new environment in a strange place and suddenly he has a new owner/ RIDER . I noticed you put a dropped nose band on his bridle. I believe the flapping his lips together is most likely a nervous habit or avoiding the bit in his mouth. You look good on him. He definitely has a lot of potential after seeing him move He LOOKS like he has a good attitude and very willing to please, he needs a gentle rider he does look very sensitive and a little fearful because he doesn't know what you expect of him yet Unfortunately, most young horses have aggressive trainers when they start out that push them to hard to get quick results .He needs a gentle sensitive, patient trainer, take your time getting to know him on the ground and build Trust with him he will reward you for it HE has a big heart. BLESSINGS to you and your new adventure with you wonderful HORSE !
Wow. He has such great movements. I'm curious to see, if you've worked with him and helped him to get through the body problems with the flexibility. And how it would looks like, if he is fully "recovered" and has his full body control. You're such a sensitive man and you do everything for your horses. That's amazing... Thank you for the update and the coming ones. And for showing us the first ride...🙏🏼 He's such a cuty. And you look great together.... 🥰
Hi Matt. My Tennessee walking horse came to me constantly playing with/chomping the bit a year ago. I got him to stop by riding him on a loose rein, no contact. I can ride him with light contact and get him to have a quiet mouth but only with a cooper/sweet iron bit(I got the advise to try this type of bit from a bit expert in the US, I live in Canada). It is was definitely my horse being nervous. He did it terribly when I sent him to training board but immediately stopped when I got him back home and it was me riding him again. Etro reminds me so much of my gelding, he is a sweetheart, very laid back, a 1/10 temperament, but he is a very sensitive horse too, he's also a very intelligent horse but a lazy guy who prefers to walk/gait only. I believe he had a hard life before he was my horse and it took awhile for me to figure him out and get him to trust me but he is just a great horse and I believe he is very happy in his new home with me now.
Excellent video Matt! I really enjoyed seeing the training be done with your new horse. It was informative and your explanations were detailed and understandable. Looking forward to watching this partnership grow.
Matt, I also have a very sensitive horse. He is also very stoic, so it was difficult to read him. He has an amazing brain. He wants so very much to please that sometimes I can feel him holding his breath and will give a big sigh when we are consentrating on, and finish a particular exercise. I have to stay super relaxed, which is not always easy! It took us a good year, and while he will never be a pocket pony, we are now buddies and I even get an occasional nudge from him. 😊 I can promise you that your patience and kindness will pay off. He is absolutely beautiful and I wish you both the best!
You can see the love you have for your horse. Both of you are amazing people to be able to have the sensitivity to understand and give gentle guidance. What a lucky horse to be in your care.
He’s just gorgeous. And you can tell he’s intelligent, and listening. And you don’t look big on him at all. I think you two are a really nice fit. I’m so happy you finally got to ride him. I bet it was like having a gift that you had to wait weeks to unwrap. Many blessings!
I just listened to a talk about horses being extroverts and introverts. Horses that often appear very quiet on the outside are introverts. They can hide their stress well. They can be very stoic. I love how sensitive you are to his emotional state. Everything is new and I'm sure he will relax after bonding with you.
Cool comment about the block….the disconnect. I love seeing the difference in the eye when a horse has never closed. Intentionally born and raised with coherence and connection, my ‘A’ team are the essence of presence and engagement. It’s all in the eyes!
I hope you’re going to compete. He’s fabulous. Once he’s settled and you build your relationship together I think you’ll be winners ❤️. Not sure you even needed the flash he’s such a good boy.
Matt, what I really notice about this video is how much you have progressed as a rider, trainer, and horseman. You have gained so much knowledge, and with that greater compassion and understanding for your horses. Watching your training and riding is beautiful because it is kind. It's not cruel, or rushed, or prideful, and I love seeing the environment you are creating for your horses.
Hi Matt, i am an equine therapist. Craniosacral therapy is great for sensitive horses and horses with traumas (including emotional traumas). I have many videos on IG showing how they feel totally relaxed when receiving this type of treatment. ( almost falling asleep) Really great thought that you let equine therapist to feel him through before starting to work with him 👍 You mentioned you have trouble bending to the left and stuck on the right, its because there is tension on the right side of the neck which doest allow him to bend to the left nor work properly on the right reign. Definetly good to let the equine therapist work on him "few" more sessions 😊👍 Also great to do some stretching exercises - as the bend to the left and to the right with a carrot. Also great to do some work from the ground - ex double lounging etc :)
Heel erg interessant om te zien. En ook om te horen hoe je denkt terwijl je rijd. Dan kunnen wij zien wat jij voelt. Je rijd ook heel paard vriendelijk en daar kijk ik graag naar.
I really enjoyed this type of video from you. The breaking down what you are doing and thinking is INCREDIBLY interesting. I'm excited about watching Etro's progress from his origin story and beyond!
Only just started watching your youtube channel so I have a lot to catch up on but totally love this! I'm spending FOREVER watching you and your horses. So interesting. You're so wise for your years.
Matt, if you haven’t done it already, you might book an appointment with that animal communicator who read your horses for you before. She can probably help you clear up his issues more easily. He probably doesn’t understand why he’s been taken from the only home he’s ever known. Also, he will want to know if you’re planning to sell him again. When I got a new dog, she had some issues, but the animal communicator who talked to her helped me to clear up her issues. We check in with her whenever some issues come up.
I'm glad you mentioned the part about him not wanting to bend his neck a certain way. My horse does not like to bend his neck to the right, but he likes to turn right
Beautiful boy! I love his carriage! He is a perfect size for you Matt. I do miss Emporio also. I live in California and love your videos and also Jesse, Also want to see more of the doggies playing - they are so adorable. Thanks, Joyce
Matt thank you so very much for sharing this beautiful ride with your new horse. He I very smart and beautiful. Very happy for you that you wee able to acquire him. He is in the best hands and the kindest person to work with him. Hope you both enjoy your journey together. Es love you input as well, it's good that Matt has someone he can rely on for honest answers. Wish you both the best always, Rusty in Oklahoma. Looking forward to next video. 😀
Matt very sorry how this comment of mine came out. So many misspelled word, I was honestly trying to watch for mistakes but boy they got by me tonight. I truly apologize Matt. You do have a very smart and beautiful horse, and I enjoyed watching you work with him. Jess misspelled your name as well very sorry also for that. Guess it was just an off night for this gal. Again truly apologize for bad wording and hope you both have a great weekend. Miss seeing Emporio and Serrano too, hope they are doing well. It's 11:25pm here so will go for now. Take care Rusty 🙂
Thank you for sharing this video Matt and Jesse...it's really interesting to hear your insights and how you are dealing with the new horse so thoughtfully and intuitively. Will definitely keep watching your journey!
Matt, all your horses are amazing. This one looks great yes he needs some work but you being his person I know he will be the ultimate dressage horse. Congrats on this new boy.
Matt knows what he is doing! I am a dressage rider, foaming at the Mouth is a sign of relaxation from Doing the flexion work. It is not The bridle. If you look at dressage Videos of Olympic riders and their Horses, you will see mouth foaming, In a double bridle. Over time the lip smacking will Quiet down when he becomes more Flexible in his poll and base of neck. When he has more self carriage up And over his back From the gut. Flexibility is key. He was ridden stiffly in Spain and Boxed in..Matt is correcting it ever So kindly! Great horse!
You both look amazing together! The first ride is always very special. I love how much you think about the horse. He definitely seems to be a bit apprehensive. And so can’t wait his true personality to shine through, too! With you he has the chance to do so. Many dressage horses (and in other disciplines, too) the horses simply have to function. And after some time they know how to do that. In my eyes this could lead to not really authentic riding and horse reactions. So it’s great to see you looking so much after him and his challenges that he simply brings with him. He needs to adjust to the new way of riding. And I am very sure he will catch on quickly! Edit: Pleeeease updates on Emporio, too!
Beautiful horse. I’ve noticed when he stands ‘square’ that he is quite camped under. The neck might not be your issue. I used to have bending issues with my horse. Tried to train it out of him when actually it was kissing spines and hoof related issues all along despite him not looking lame!. Dealing with hoof balance actually changed him quite a bit so if things don’t improve, I would definitely consider a physical issue rather than training. He really is such a beautiful horse but reminds me so much like my own. X
When Jesse explained as you mentioned how horses get blocked. I have seen this many times and its very true! The amount of work that you do with your horses together is amazing! Credit to you both will be very interesting to see how he goes as he is a very beautiful horse and very quiet too. Great work both of you.
My mare swings her bottom lip when she's worried Matt.. much much better though over time. He's looking great , really looking forward to watching your journey together xx
Great new horse. He is beautiful 😍. Still have Soreno? I haven't seen anything lately mentioned about him, just Emporio. Thanks for the video, I love seeing updates from you & Jesse.
This has been a very interesting video. I really like how you talk us through it. The horse seems so relaxed and in sync with you. I’m looking forward to you getting into real dressage moves. 🥰☕️
Gorgeous neck & arch - can’t wait to see head held higher. Notice he has left shoulder rotator pinch that extends whither to hoof. His right side accommodates, thus neck stiffness - opposite side presented first, now balance a good stretch left& right daily for 15 min. A good all out gallop on a track rather than inside, for about a week & a 1/2 will elongate the gate & relieve muscle ache with the large muscle workout. Continue daily with trot/cantor/indoor exercise so he feels your body length/weight & command communication. He’s beautiful and you look handsome on him. Start with big muscle stretch exercise and then work your way slowly to the finer finesse of dressage. He must have had a long stressful journey- good he’s had 2 weeks to acclimate to the stable- now you, and the right overall - purely horse activity as if he were a wild stallion (all out track exercises) will be a perfect start for developing the deep soulmate connection for you both. He’ll show beautifully. Best of luck mate.
