Day Six with a Wild Mustang//Player's Choice Mustang Makeover 2020

[@OdahviingSpirit]

I’m loving the 20 or longer minute videos. You are doing such a phenomenal job with her and I love watching as much footage as possible. Even the little things someone might not think are important are teaching me something! Keep it up girl, you are really doing great. She’s going to be incredible.

[@hannahmelton5331]

It would be such a shame to cut out any of the details. The longer videos are great. They show a better idea of just how much time and effort it takes to train a mustang.

[@smugbugs7031]

Hannah Melton yess!! Agree, this is so educational for me

[@shannonxx9494]

I agree I like the longer videos

[@paigek9355]

Same here, I feel like the more details the better even if some of it it repetitive. 🙂

[@UriskOfTheFae]

These videos seem like the perfect length. I don't even realize it's been twenty minutes, I'm not bored, and I don't feel like I'm missing stuff.

[@elowyndemontigny544]

This horse is going to be bomb proof by the end. I vote for the name "Kestrel" A.K.A. "Kessie". She's brave and strong and fierce. Loving these long videos! You're killing it!

[@Boarchy]

Elowyn DeMontigny I love that name ❤️❤️❤️

[@fleetskipper1810]

And I join the votes for the name kestrel.

[@lisafoster4468]

Agreed

[@jayneenjorgensen1141]

Thank you! I love your videos. I have had my horse for 21 years now but until I found you and your channel, I have not made great progress in training. By training, I mean mostly for myself. Horse trainers I learned from taught me the "old fashioned cowboy" way. Sadly, I lost a lot of years in a special friendship that I never knew was possible. Your methods work extremely well on my anxious and smart (not naughty) horse and I love how you break down every step for me to see my horse through a different lens. I am so thankful for you. When I head to the pasture with a halter, I yell my horses name and he comes running. I look forward to our time together, and I feel like he enjoys the time too...now that he has an owner who is willing to listen to him, be patient and consistent. It makes the world of difference! I came home crying tears of joy after my first session of trying your method! I may only have a few years left with him but I know they will be the most sweet! You are a great leader! I wish you the best! If you are ever out in Washington state I'd love to visit a clinic!

[@SamVanFleet]

Thank you!

[@jeanfish7]

20- 30 minutes is NOT long! Some of us do have attention spans longer than 10 minutes....I'd rather experience the entire training experience...let people know that gentleing is not an intstragram minute...people who have this fairy tale vision of " oh, I'll love and cuddle my mustang and we'll be soul mates" is SO dangerous.!

[@mouthofthesouth4267]

Amen to that girl ❤️❤️

[@doththesloth2022]

I totally agree! I am learning so much from these 20-30min videos!

[@migelikali7265]

If ANYBODY thinks that they can just snuggle up to a 1000 pound wild animal and become "good ole buddies" or "soul mates" over night or even in just a couple of days, is nothing but a fool. A horse can kill you just as fast and a rattle snake or faster really. Boot hill is full of all kinds of idiots that took for granted they could just walk up to a wild animal (Horse) and pet them like they were domesticated before they met. If you have never had a 1000 pound horse on top of you then you will never fully realize the danger involved with training horses. I have and its not very pleasant, in fact its one of the most scariest things you I have encountered. I have had several near death experiences in my life but, bar none, having a horse on top of me or being attacked by one is the scariest thing I have ever encountered; mostly because I was in an enclosed structure when it happened and I had no place to hide or run to for protection.

[@migelikali7265]

Just another note......she is doing as good a job of training that horse as any professional trainer I have ever watched handle a horse - and shes being smart about it too, not taking for granted that at any moment that horse could get tired of being handled or driven and turn on her. She is giving the horse a leader (leader of the pack) that it can respect and follow, knowing that she will never purposely harm or attack as a PREDATOR. Also keep in mind that ALL PREDATORS have 2 eyes in front, so she has to overcome that auto-response in the horse that has been in their genetics for thousands of years - that doesn't just happen overnight ya know.

[@Joshua-pv5li]

in fairness, she IS explaining how long she does this and why. I dont think that having a 20-30 minute videos where she explains how to do it properly will lead to anyone thinking what you are (rightly) worried about. Also as a person with ADD, I couldnt even watch it if it was the full thing uncommented or with rare comments lol, and im guessing whilst views arent the most important thing, as a creator, one would still want to be able to have as many people watching as possible?

[@clariceventer9643]

I love this series and I don't actually mind watching 20min videos because I like to see all the details. Awesome job!

[@mouthofthesouth4267]

I like the extra details 👍❤️ and as for your "scary" tools whoever said that obviously hasn't ever tried to train a wild horse! Especially one as bold and forward as this mare is 🙄 if you didn't have scary tools she would definitely have tried to put you in the hospital ☹️ you are doing an amazing job with her as you always do with all your horses don't worry about what the haters say keep up the amazing work 💪💪❤️❤️ my neighbors the same way when I'm working with mine always going on about how that's not nice and this isn't fair and blah blah blah but the other day I was in the saddle on my pushy forward mare and she was calm and quiet for the first time with me on her back in the saddle so my self titled "horsey advocate" neighbor decided to take a wash cloth and try to SWAT a fly away from her face from across the fence!! Well needless to say if I hadn't used all my "scary mean tools" before this moment then I'd probably be in traction right now........ But thankfully I'm not🙏🙏 and my mare did great with handling a stupid human action and she stood there as quiet as can be..... As for me well........ I won't say what my reaction was 🤭🤫🤣

[@LynneDemonQueen1]

She is coming along very nicely. You're doing a wonderful job. I just feel that she just isn't dealing well with the loss of her freedom but seems to be tolerating it better and even accepting it. You're going to make her into a wonderful partner for someone if you don't keep her after the challenge. You explain everything you do and why you do it, don't let the the negative comments get to you. Apparently those people making these comments haven't followed this mare's story and realize that she was a wild horse never been touched by humans and survived a very horrible and traumatic round up process losing her freedom just before coming to you. If your videos were 40 minutes long, I'd still watch them all. I think the length of your videos are great as they are, they're very informative and honest.

[@darlenebracken5482]

The "tools" are extremely important! I've seen someone get really hurt from a horse that lost his mind from a piece of tarp that blew across the trail we were on!! So yes, everything you do to prepare a horse do it! You can never do enough.. don't set them up for failure! I so enjoy your videos..keep them coming, you go girl!!

[@drewtaggart9101]

Horse training is not a quick process. Neither should the videos! Really enjoy all the content! Great job

[@alyssafountain7797]

Killing it with her. I love her and your training very insightful. Please keep up the long videos. I’d watch live streams of you training this horse. So awesome.

[@trouts4]

Sam, I'd watch hour long videos. I love how in-depth you are. I know nothing of horses or the training of them so there are a lot of things that are obvious to people who work with horses but not for me. The way you're explaining how you had to change some things just because this horse reacts differently is really interesting to me. To me it's amazing how you got a horse to yield their hindquarters or go the way you want it to go just by your stance and slight movements. That is probably simple stuff in the horse world, but for someone like me that's wizardry. You're having a wild animal react to your gestures and move exactly how you wanted it to without touching it or saying a word. Keep up the good work, I adore these videos. You've come a long way with the quality of your videos and your channel in general. The voice overs are ace and really aid the watchability (if that's a word).

[@eqsharps]

PLEASE LONGGG OR EVEN LONGERRR. I WOULD TOTALLY WATCH A 40 MINUTES TRAINING VIDEO TOO

[@heidibarons1801]

I kinda love how she keeps you on your toes, I think the name Spicy fits her perfectly.

[@Sarah-fd5lt]

Don't shorten them! I love seeing it all and people can fast forward if they don't want to watch it all. You are so much fun to watch! Love that you have such a different personality in this horse this time. Makes the anticipation high!

[@haydensampson1571]

Great job showing how it is done and explaining what you are doing and why. Each horse has different personalities and I'm so glad you show the harder situations so we can all learn together. I appreciate you explain horses body language. Could see this mare your working with flattening lots of coyotes out in the wild and not thinking twice about it. I would like to train a mustang and burro, I'm learning so much from you. Thanks for taking all the hours and hours making these videos to share.

[@SamVanFleet]

Thank you so much!

[@vomrabenauge]

... Whoever said you're just scaring the horses doesn't understand a) counterconditioning, b) desensitization, c) how negative reinforcement works, if any of the quadrants, and d) what learned helplessness looks like. Seeing her soften up and become more willing and pliable with each video is a joy. I always look forward to the next one!

[@bseely772]

Keep it in. Very enjoyable. If people find them too long they can fast forward. Good job :)

[@Giddiupgalloping]

I agree, long videos are my preference, as well. I'm really enjoying watching you work with this mare. She's a real challenge and you are handling her quite well! For the first time, I find myself checking to see if you've uploaded an update every other day or so. I'm so looking forward to watching your friendship bloom.

[@maryellenbarak3946]

I like the longer videos because it shows the follow through and continuity of the lessons. Great job with a very mareish mare!

[@davestuart1581]

20 or 30+ videos are fine. It gives us, out here, to watch the horses body language also. Thank you and keep up your good works with horses. I probably learn more than your horses do, and that's plenty!!!

[@inspiredclips8245]

Please keep as much as possible in your videos! 10K people have viewed this video alone and are seeing your confident, compassionate, wise, horsemanship that so blatantly designed for how the horse, and each particular horse thinks. It does not matter to me, that because I was busy, I watched it in two segments. Keep up the great work for horses and people! Laural

[@alexboies1227]

Sam, I will watch any video you make...short or long I’m happy. You are so in tune to her and all the others. You must have been a horse in another life time. Love your corrections too...short and sweet. I am falling in love with her...thanks to you. These sessions are great. Thank you so much!

[@JeanGulden]

I love watching 20 minute long videos. It is important to see the nuances of change. May I say I truly appreciate your honesty with the slight delay in your response; this happens to me on occasion and more so now that I am 'rusty' in my training skills. Thank you SO very much for sharing these videos. You are doing a wonderful service to many many mustangs by helping in this way.

[@kerielwatson3197]

"good girl, I know that wasn't fair." when the tarp blew over. She reacted very well. You're right in telling her she's brave. I knew a litl QH filly who was so so condident with almost everything, until one day while nibbling a plastic bag, the wind blew it back on her face... Poor girl panicked and bolted. In her panic she forgot to open her mouth and let the bag go though. If we had of been training this entire situation would have been avoided... But there was training, just her in the paddock with the herd being a horse. The good thing though she trusted people enough she came to us for help and we were able to calm her and remove the bag, followed Imediately by showing her it was safe. Within a few minutes of getting the bag out of her mouth, we could tie Said bag to her halter and have her lunging with it attached no worries. She's going to be bomb proof when she's finally started. I feel sorry for whoever has to train her though because she makes your mare here look submissive.

[@brynecol]

the most work i've ever done with horses is some really minor stuff while i volunteered for trail rides and with a friend who owned horses. i have, however, trained dogs, feral cats, deer, and some wild birds, and i can say with confidence that the best way to get an exceptionally reactive and dangerous animal is to never expose them to things that scare them. especially with fear aggression, you have to assert that you are in charge, and that most importantly you are not their enemy. that doesn't mean avoiding everything that scares them, it means exposing them to scary things in a controlled environment so they understand it's not that scary. it also means not backing down when they challenge you, because they aren't in control. you are. they follow your lead, not the other way around. i really love watching your videos, especially with this beautiful mare. it's incredible the progress you've made in just six days, and you can bet that i'm taking notes for when i can afford a (hopefully much tamer!) horse myself. thank you so much.

[@annapollitt9160]

I love watching these long videos. I'm don't even work with horses, but your videos have taught me so much about teaching and life. Plus it's just amazing to watch the horses come along. :)

[@halled8296]

The long videos are awesome! Your doing amazing w her!

[@davethomas9435]

For a non-horse person this is just amazing! I really enjoy your detailed explanations for all the actions you take and what you expect the horse to do. Any animal training endeavor requires the patience of Job, and an understanding of the animal beyond the norm. You girl, are an expert! I will be a viewer for a long time! Thank you, Dave

[@juliaA_1985]

LOVE the long videos. I would watch even if they were longer! I love to study horse behavior and there’s lots of good stuff here. Thank you for sharing the videos and your voice over descriptions. She actually reminds me of my own mare in some ways.

[@joyofthehorse]

Love the longer videos with details left in! The more I see, the more I learn! Thank you 😘❤️

[@Lorgayle1]

I love the longer videos that show so much more. I learn so much from watching you.

[@ravereyes6851]

Keep the 20 min vids!!! I enjoy the voiceovers and details cx

[@Ahmgcats]

I love how you explain your training methods when people are upset about them without being condescending, there's really not enough of that in horsmanship communities online in particular.

[@Kr1st1n4.H]

I LOOOVE all the footage. Please don’t shorten them! I’m all for more footage, more details 👌 I thoroughly enjoy watching this mare blossom. She’s a lil firecracker! 🧨 Prayers & Love & Light!! 💜

[@TheWatanna]

I like the long videos', I find them interesting. To say that she did not trust you at all in the beginning would be an understatement, to see her now is just amazing. You are doing an fantastic job with teaching this Mare and I am looking forward to the next video. Thank you for posting.

[@theendofanerror4173]

The longer the better. I truly enjoy watching the highs and most especially the lows of working with this horse.

[@miaprice9244]

You so amazing with your Mustangs, Sam!

[@juliagray207]

I actually think you handled the halter thing well . You can see that the first time she went for a nibble she thought better of it and pulled her head back right after doing it. I don't think it was necessarily the wrong approach to ignore that/try again the way you did. It is such a balance of knowing when to ignore and when to address. No one gets it right 100% of the time(I know I feel like I struggle with it a lot,)but I think you absolutely did here. It is cool to see overall how much more she is looking to you for guidance. I like the way she thinks things through most of the time, she seems to like to learn new things which is great. Like everyone else, I love the longer videos. They are so informative and honestly when watching them they seem to go by in a flash!

[@adventuresofSandL]

I am learning so much watching your videos. Thank you so much for making these videos. I can’t wait to get a horse and practice what I’ve learned.

[@tiiuvanwinckle7880]

I enjoy the long videos; it show each time you do it the more relaxed she gets. Also it shows the true sense of the training and not just the good parts. I am amazed at how far she has come in less then a week. Looking forward to the future episodes. I also like the name Kestrel.

[@jakerisher4000]

Please leave in all in. It is very informative.

[@cadencebyrne5478]

I'm loving this series so much! And I don't mind how they are edited or how long they go for!

[@cadencebyrne5478]

Also a name suggestion is Nala, I have no clue if someone else has named their horse that but ya know

[@fleetskipper1810]

This is the one of the most beautiful, most athletic, and smartest mustangs I’ve ever seen anyone work with. You’re doing a fantastic job. She’s going to be one heck of a partner by the end of your training.

[@poisonapple6138]

I'm so in love with her and her sass.

[@hannahmattie8955]

you are doing such a good job with her!

[@s_android]

20 mins is great! We have two amazing horses, yet I learn helpful tips every time I watch your videos. Thanks. And never listen to this who don't understand, but it's also nice of you to explain your side of things to help those who want to learn.

[@libbyrohrer1850]

Keep the videos long! I really enjoy watching them! The details and little things that I see when watching these videos give me ideas for what to do with my horses. They are super interesting and always different so it keeps you intrigued. I would easily watch 2 days combined in a 40 minute video. Lol.

[@emk7132]

I appreciate your videos just like they are. Hard to describe how much i am learning from your amazing horsemanship and training skills!

[@emk7132]

Sassafras

[@rebeccamartin9664]

I enjoy the longer videos. Like the ribbon whip interesting . She definitely doesn't mind letting you know when you are getting on her nerves, sassy she is forsure. ☝️♥️🙏

[@nperry77]

The only negative feedback you should listen to is from the horse. You're doing a great job cowgirl.

[@TKEnduroo]

Sam you have the inner glow♥️

[@territn8871]

I could watch you and her work all day long, so please keep the 20-minute (and longer I'd like)!! She's a smart girl and is going to be a fantastic girl!! I agree with a commenter down below to name her "Sassafras" cause she's sassy and full of spunk!😊 She's also a beauty to watch. Maybe whoever said to shorten the vids or the tools are too scary just doesn't love these wild horses as much as the rest of us! To be a great companion horse, you have to break that spirit of wanting to charge or bite when they're wanting to be dominant. Keep up the great work, you're a wonderful trainer!❤👍🐎😊

[@bryanbsa8927]

This is called Gentling and is being done at one of the highest and most experienced horse women I have ever seen. She is calm yet extremely aware of what the horse is going through. You have to remember, this is a 1000 lb. animal learning new things and Sam is doing a great job. I've been around Horses for 58 of my 66 years, trust me, she's doing the Mustang a Solid! I would say the mustang was the alpha female in the herd so she is sometimes a bit aggressive toward Sam. Sam, The video length is about 5 min. long, but to see you and your method is worth it. : )

[@danaschubert5930]

She is going to make one badass mare. She already looks so much better without so much of that "hay belly". You can tell she's going to be awesome.

[@daniellenicole6092]

I love watching your videos please consider keeping in everything and adding some other clips like of her reactions or you picking things up. It’s fun learning how you are training her and seeing how she reacts!

[@davidmoreton6424]

Thank you Sam for your excellent vidioes -you have filled in a few gaps in my own learning about horses - you explain every hing so well - and your patience is amazing !!

[@Birddog1227Blogspot]

Thanks for the Long Videos👍Very good to see as much as possible to give context and meaning✊🐴Great Job Sam

[@Bodiy]

The longer the better that way you get to see all their reactions what a great feeling it has to be to take take all that fear out of a wild animal and teach them human trust and love

[@juliebrekke3822]

Sam, please continue the demonstrative videos. They are very informative and helpful.

[@robcobattlezone7201]

I really love the long in depth videos. They’re super helpful and I love seeing y’all progress

[@ridendurance]

I think the length of the video is fine. Each session will have different and important points so I can see where it would be hard to leave things out. Nice videos. 🐎

[@jenniferbell4571]

She is starting to look at you for reassurance now. I like that she is asking for the release, or rather asking if it is okay to release.

[@joanneturnbull5640]

I could watch you work with her all day sam💗

[@taylorvondrak5671]

I love seeing all of the things you do to her so plz don’t leave out anything! Thx😊

[@paterkatown1324]

Ahh, you're doing so well with her! Love watching and learning from you and your horses! It does make me pretty sad to hear how much criticism you're getting and how it is affecting you. Perhaps turn off/don't look at KZbin comments for a bit? There's no reason to defend the wonderful things you do with and for the animals that come into your life.

[@mgharvey3657]

Long videos are great. Keep em coming.

[@inakamikaze1529]

She is a strong mare......but really nice .She show you much. I like the long videos. She is a wonderful.😍 You did a great job.....every day.👏 A big hey from Germany💙

[@cassullivan1375]

I really don't mind watching 20 minute videos ^^ I just find some time and sit down and watch them and I enjoy seeing all the progress you make with her

[@moniqueb2558]

Longer videos, you are such a great teacher for those of us that its our first mustang! I'm sad I'm blowing though your videos so quick they are they good!! Thank you for the time you put into your videos!!!

[@dianehutcheson5931]

I’m so proud of you Sam , don’t worry about what others say about the tools , they probably don’t train horses 🐴or even own a horse . They don’t see how the training has to be done . I’m amazed at your training because I’m from old school n I’ve seen a lot of bad bad abusive training , the mare is doing good . She’s gonna be an awesome horse when you get finished 👍🏻🙏🏻😊🐴🙌🏻 PS I personally like the long video sessions !!!!!! 🐴🙌🏻😊👍🏻

[@smugbugs7031]

Well i think you got your answer 😂😍 we definatly want 20 min or longer videos!! Love this sassy mare 😂 i hope you can keep her, i think you two would become a dreamteam. She isnt aftaid of anything!

[@roniddyett]

Details matter. Please don't cut. Lol. Love watching this mare progress.🐎

[@SprainyZ]

Deffo dont leave out any detail! The detail is what makes these video's great :DD

[@cadencesomers9898]

Early! You are an amazing trainer and I really look up to your methods and what you do. Thank you ♥️

[@weaverbee2808]

This girl really is amazing! I saw you on Camille’s stream when you bought her. Glad I did, cause I am REALLY enjoying watching you work with her! She is gorgeous.

[@weaverbee2808]

If you’ve ever seen Man from Snowy River, she reminds me of Jim’s brumby, Danny.

[@rowdyhunt5938]

Your video's are easy to watch if anything we would enjoy longer videos. your understanding and skill at working with these horses is rare and while there are, to be fair, several trainers that do a very good job at training mustangs you excel with your temperament, patients and willingness to work with each horses abilities and adjust to fit the current level of training. I also believe you work to earn the trust and respect from each horse, not try to force it thru fear and intimidation. I can honestly say that if I was in need of a trainer you would be the first one I would seek out, I have every confidence that you would return a horse that would have an excellent foundation to build on and take in any direction. I am not sure why but something in my gut tells me this is one mustang that by the end of this competition you will want to hold onto, having only seen her in video's I think she has that something special. Excellent job!!

[@1badbadgergirl]

Look at how shiny shes getting. Definitely a looker. Keep up the great work

[@chellwedance]

you're doing great with her! I too don't mind the longer videos! :) love watching you work w/the wild ones!, heck even the tame ones! :) great job Sam!

[@uniqueriding5631]

Don't change the way you upload these video's. I love watchung all of it and am learning so much! Love how you explain everything that happens and why you decide to do something!

[@Nyquil5]

I enjoy the longer videos, It's fascinating to watch her body language. She will be something special in the future. (I like the name Kestrel as well)

[@jenrobinson6395]

I like your long and detailed videos! So interesting! Don’t shorten them. You are so amazing with these horses.

[@patientv]

Dont leave anything out, because she's the type of horse that people need to understand better. The whole time, I was wondering if her slight ear pin was due to the wind or her being defensive? I was thinking she's the type that will haul off & bite you b4 you realize it.. She got way better half way through the vid then you gave her liberty & she snapped right back to her true self which is why she tested the bite. She is a thinker, very smart & still testing HOW to get over on you. Way to stay patient! I really like this horse! Cant wait for the breakthrough because her lack of fear will enable you to do wonders with her... How is she fairing with the other horses? Great stuff. Super excited for this one!!

[@susandelemus5376]

Love the length! In order for me to learn it's important to have lots of repetition. Thanks for putting these up for us. Even though my horse is not a mustang she's got a tendency to be rude and pushy and spooky. Obviously I need to go back to basics and incorporate more of your methods.

[@rfrazier140]

I like the videos as you are doing them. The content is great and the length is appropriate for the amount of training you cover.

[@minmin91187]

I really like the longer format videos with lots of detail! I would not even mind if they were longer.

[@kaylalemire2503]

I love the length of the videos and how detailed you explain what your doing !

[@alisonevans5507]

I agree, the longer videos let us see more and learn more. Horses aren't the only ones that need repition, lol.

[@gailkarabell5733]

I enjoy watching the progression and going through different steps with her. I don’t mind the long videos. She still seems to be tougher and more un trusting, then your other horses, but do see progress. I like the fact your patient, calm & using different tools, sound & movement. Great job, luv your videos 👏🏻👏🏻

[@kandiwooldridge8219]

You are doing a fabulous job...🥰

[@WinterStar38]

I'm sorry you feel you have to defend yourself about your tools and such. But if you did not do as you are doing this horse could hurt your or whoever is around. I believe you are doing a AWESOME job!! Keep you the good work.

[@SamVanFleet]

Thank you!

[@reeseperfect775]

I really enjoy the long, in detail videos, I'm learning lots...keep up the good work!

[@daveoutdoors9664]

Don't make the videos shorter. I like seeing the process and progress that you and this mare are having.

[@jackiedejoe956]

I like the longer detailed videos ... thanks for sharing.

[@lynette50]

Real time is best. We all know the slow way is the right way with horses.. I'd rather a longer video every time as I'm learning so much from you

[@Beachbum3579]

Maybe you should name her Sassafrass:) she’s full of sass! Love the vids. Length is perfect

[@territn8871]

I like that name! Indeed she is full of a sassy personality!👍

[@lifelover558]

i like ur tattoo😍👍

[@daledundee466]

Don’t shorten videos ,film everything, for such a young lady you are doing a fantastic job with your horses.

[@lisaleilich5357]

Prefer the longer videos. So much to learn from! You are a very talented young woman!

[@russellesimonetta3835]

People are goofy. You aren't hurting the animals. You are building trust and compliance! In the herd she would be a leader.