Sometimes, Good Things Take Time

This youngster came to AAE with a group of youngsters in June of 2016.  Rio was a about nine months old.  He had minimal handling and was pretty much terrified of humans.  He took considerable time to get comfortable with a halter, and he was one those we say every introduction seemed like 50 first dates.  It was just as scary the 50th time as it was the first, no matter every time was uneventful.  Every introduction to something new was the same reaction, no matter how consistent we tried to be, and even if we changed things up altering our approach.

Rio needed a very experienced person to help him conquer his fears, and someone with the patience of a saint.  Rio was a friendly and inquisitive toddler. He was very athletic and a nice mover. He could excel in any discipline, and he could be a wonderful all around mount, if only he could conquer his fears. In time (lots of time), Rio learned all the young horse basics. He was halterable in pasture, he could be led, lunged, and learned to tie. He picked up his feet, and he was good with a calm and patient farrier.  He loved water, enjoyed other horses, and really tried hard to please.  If only he had courage.

He needed lots of positive exposure and lots of positive experiences to develop confidence. He was respectful of people and for the most part stays out of his handlers space even when spooked (which was quite often).

Rio needed a confident leader that could support him and help him through learning new things.

In May of this year, Rio found just what he needed!!

A forever home with the perfect family!