Dodger’s First Groundwork Session! It’s Time To Start Training

[@freespiritequestrian]

Hey Horse Lovers! To celebrate 🎉 Dodger coming out of QT we are offering our ✨NEW✨ Buckskin Body Care Kit! All Dodger themed and perfect for winter. This bundle includes a newly scented Sugar Scrub (brown sugar muffin), Body Butter, and Buckskin Lip Balm! Only available till they sell out! We will ship out ASAP to get them you before Christmas as well. 🎁🐴 thespiritedhorseboutique.com/products/arlo-s-sweet-tooth-body-butter-copy

[@CallMehSwiftie]

I'm gonna buy it!

[@CapriUni]

I think I'd have "issues" too, if I'd been locked in a stall for that long (and when not in a stall, being ridden by people who don't know what they're doing).

[@FrenchFrog-mk6uw]

I will try to buy it! It looks amazing. Also dodger is sooooo cute ☺️

[@graffic13]

He almost acts like he was bottle raised😂😂

[@NovaST4Rv]

I’m buying it ❤❤❤

[@watrgrl2]

I think you picked a winner there with Dodger. Gorgeous conformation, very intelligent, desires to please, learns fast. He’s a sweetheart.

[@s.g.8010]

Sweethearts pick Sweethearts❤❤❤❤💥💥💥❤🤍💙

[@ida.starsong_21]

Fr! I think she struck gold!

[@heartlesskitten88]

He really is a gorgeous horse, a beautiful example of a classic America Quarter Horse. I look forward to seeing him develop. You can tell his attentive and intelligent, he wants to work and be loved by his person and have his horse family. He's a lucky horse to be at FSE.

[@lotsamoxie]

After following you for close to 3 years, I'm still deeply moved by the way you're so sensitive to the needs of each individual horse. Every single one of them at FSE is so fortunate to be in your loving care. 💗

[@Pheonix43]

I really think you are one of the best people to calm a horse that´s nervous because you can give them a routine to give them security and just calm them with your personality, experience and tenacity in helping horses, I´m so glad that Dodger arrived at free spirit farm!!❤❤

[@georgia_blueland]

Exactly sometimes horses need to feel the emotions instead of them being shutdown love this.

[@annjohnson8437]

I agree wholeheartedly! ❤

[@inmyopinion9844]

I love how he seems to point his toes (hooves) when he canters or runs!! Maybe I’m just seeing things! 😉

[@KimSpurre104]

Agree💯💯💯

[@TheCatsthyme]

Like many canine companions, were bred to do a job and then expect to do a job! People need to think about their horses and canines who have these expectations! All 3 of my dogs have job expectations and so sad to report I'm not a hunter!

[@Roibolt]

I love Dodger's face - his eyes and ears express more curiosity than fear. It is a joy to watch him explore his new environment both physically and emotionally. Thanks Shea for choosing him and for letting us come along on his journey.

[@kathlynterry8196]

I love a horse that’s a sniffer. To me, that means curiosity and intelligence as they process their surroundings. You got a good one - as usual!

[@sherigrow6480]

You can see how smart he is. He notices everything, every little thing. He'll figure it all out.

[@maggieb5326]

Dodger is a gorgeous horse. His breedy head shows the Arabian influence on the Quarter Horse. He has good bone and he doesn’t have those tiny feet that you see on some QHs. He is not irritable at all but still a little unsettled in his new surroundings. He managed to get a bite of hay while trotting freely in the riding ring. That was a good sign. I love this horse. With the excellent management at FSE he will settle and be a real nice horse for the program.

[@NovaST4Rv]

36s ago ❤

[@cherylvantil6918]

I was thinking the same thing about his head - the Arabian influence. His head is so gorgeous. And in Shae's last video when he was running I could see Arabian, too.

[@claudiadickerman4218]

Yes, I forgot to mention in my comment that he is a great example of the QH and yes you can see a bit of that Arabian influence in his head and face. I am a fan of the Polish Arabians myself.

[@CherylAnderson-qs4iq]

I felt better when you let him explore the area by himself. Once he walked up to look at those objects around him, he was able to put his fears of the unknown aside. You understood his behavior and gave him time to sort himself out. ❤

[@cherylvantil6918]

That's one of the traits I love about Shae: she works hard to understand the personality of her horses.

[@maryvallas772]

How funny that he wasn't afraid of the back of the arena like everyone else, but the front! 😂 He moves gorgeously, I can't wait to see him move after you've had time to work with him!

[@catherinee.millard1831]

I thought the same thing! The back area has always been the scary spot, but he went right over there with no problem. I figured it was because he smelled the hay! 😄

[@lizlogsdon6441]

My dad raised quarter horses when I was a kid, Dodger is going to be amazing when he adds muscle mass. He is warming up to you, he is learning how to trust you and know love. I love you let him explore the arena and he was feeling safe enough to do it! Every time I see his head though, I think Arabian, not the size but something in the shape I guess….i love it! ❤️❤️❤️

[@TheLindagdetroit]

He's gonna shine with consistency, stability, & understanding. ❤

[@cherylvantil6918]

And with being showered with love and treats!

[@hs5167]

When I see Dodger, I think he’d eventually be good for athletic events for intermediates. He gets up and goes and has a good mind, is very smart, and is kind.

[@tinafuller5022]

My QH mare could be his twin. Her name is Gracie. I have owned her since she was three and she is now 13. We have done lots of ground work, shows, many many trail rides and lessons to help me be a better rider together. I am 58 and she has taken very good care of me. My years of learning have given me confidence and she benefits from that because she is confident on the trail and we have so much fun together. My last mare was 32 when she passed away, so I have many great years left with Gracie:)

[@lynfairchild1836]

He did very well for the first workout, you can see in his eyes he trusts you like all your babies, great momma xxx

[@susanbockh5071]

He’s coming closer to you kind of crowding you for support because he feels safer with you so when he’s closer to you, he feels like he’ll be OK. What a cutie pie.

[@terrifiorelli9819]

Crowding is dangerous as they must respect our space. I have been run over and it isn’t fun.

[@cherylvantil6918]

@@terrifiorelli9819 There's a horse trainer out of England I also watch on KZbin (can't recall his name off the top of my head. I believe Steve is his first name. He also highly stresses the fact that horses must be trained to respect your space to prevent injury. I think as Shae trains Dodger to respect her space and as he gets to know her he'll feel safe without having to be so close.

[@claudiadickerman4218]

@@cherylvantil6918 I have watched tons of that trainer Steve Young in the UK you speak of. He knows horses like the palm of his hand. I have seen him with some pretty unstable horses that certainly have signs of trauma and or lack of training. He sorts them out pretty darn quickly.

[@alishal6031]

I really wish all horses were lucky enough to have a human like you. Far too many people immediately resort to hitting or yanking the horse for acting anxiously, it’s really sad. So glad Dodger found his way to you 💕

[@Grimmbaessu]

I'm so so glad that Dodger landed with you, literally the best place he could've ended up to build his confidence!

[@SallyLaBaume]

I couldn't believe how quick Dodger picked up your cues.

[@Kim-lc3fv]

I'm a total inexperienced horse person, but just knowing that equines are flight /prey/ herd animals would explain why Dodger would be nervous in a strange, enclosed space. It was impressive how quickly he was building trust with Shae. ❤

[@poppy_pixie]

as someone who trained to work with dogs for a few years with a focus on positive reinforcement, I find it so fascinating how similar it is to your horse training! The way you pick up on subtle body language and release signals is incredibly similar to how I learned to look out for the most subtle, yet expressive,, dog body language. Such a great watch! Dodger really tried his best, even if it was a bit scary :)

[@cherylvantil6918]

What a nice post, @poppy_pixie!

[@terrifiorelli9819]

He has nice confirmation. A lovely looking and moving boy.

[@claudiam5358]

I love seeing you work with a horse with some issues. It really shows how you build the confidence in each horse from the beginning

[@shawnabeach1732]

I love seeing her work with them and explain to those of us the reason behind doing so. So we can learn as well.

[@cherylvantil6918]

@@shawnabeach1732 I totally agree. I've never owned a horse but have been a horse fanatic since I was 12 (I'm now - ahem - 64!) and I have learned SO much from Shae's videos.

[@shawnabeach1732]

@cherylvantil6918 I'm 48. My daughter is on the Autism spectrum and has been in an equine therapy program for almost a year. She does so well in it. They have a program for folks 50 and over called the Silver Saddles. I am ticking down the days until I hit 50, so I can actually learn to ride

[@claudiadickerman4218]

@@shawnabeach1732 Good for you!

[@shawnabeach1732]

@claudiadickerman4218 not too old to give my dream a shot!

[@the.nerdy.mermaid]

He is GORGEOUS. He also has extremely intelligent eyes 👀

[@ginavoneiff1575]

Dodger is looking so much better Shae! He couldn't be in better hands to come into himself.

[@suzanne9622]

You are just who Dodger needs in his life right now. You will go as slow as he needs and be extra careful.

[@lynettefrench2358]

I wish your channel would have been around 30 yrs ago when I was in my 30/40s. When I watch your videos I can't help but get that feeling of excitement I used to get when my sister and I would go trail riding and the county shows just for the fun of it. My last horse was a registered thoroughbred/trakenher (not sure of spelling) and had been trained for jumping. I've never had lessons in any riding disciplines (just by the seat of my pants riding), but got the nerve to jump him. It was just a small jump, but I lifted a little high out of the saddle and he jumped it like it was 3/4 ft. It was so thrilling and scary at the same time! Lad was 16.2 hands and when he jumped it I felt like I was on a plane during takeoff. It was sooo great. Anyway, I feel the same joy watching your videos and I've learned so much when it comes to your training and understanding the way a horses mind works. So in my long winded comment here I wish I had your knowledge when I was younger and I'm positive my life's path would have gone in a different direction. I feel so inspired by your videos and I feel exhausted at the same time because of your drive. Your family must be so proud of you. I know I am and I don't even know you.

[@patriciavoigt6389]

Dodger seems so sweet and smart, and he’s just a gorgeous boy. He is going to blossom with you and I can’t wait to see his journey.

[@Faelani38]

❤ thank you for letting us see his first session.

[@easttexan2933]

At 16:19 he shows off his conformation really well. His mane and tail are beautiful. Such a magnificient animal. You did good.

[@juliastrzyga2274]

This boy is elegant and graceful 💖 He is such a anxious sweetheart! I'm sure with Shae he will thrive and gain trust quickly. ❤️🐎

[@24grateful]

He is gorgeous. Can’t wait to see his first ride. Bless you for your patience and discerning what he needs.

[@christinegivens9048]

If only every child in the world had parents as patient as Shea. Imagine what a wonderful world that would be! Go Dodger! You’re a very lucky boy. ❤❤❤

[@elizabethb3769]

He looks very handsome. He looks like he's trying hard through the nervousness.

[@ninakaiser2930]

Dodger did well, he really tried to listen - even scared and unsure. It will be easy to work him through it with regular work, giving him the reassurance and building up his confidence. Some Interesting behaviors he has! Fortunately nothing that can’t be worked out. Going slow now will build the trust and foundation so much stronger for later on! And he will quickly learn that nothing bad is going to happen. I remember well how scared and unsure Belle was at the beginning. Dodger is really beautiful and his face is so expressive! You could really see with that side eye what he was thinking about the „scary corner“ at the beginning 😂

[@marthaagnew6022]

I am so greatful for all the efforts you clearly put into sharing many of your daily experiences with us. Your confident/compassionate leadership with your horses is such a much needed and appreciated knowledge to be shared with the world! So greatful to Kyle for encouraging you to start a KZbin channel.❤

[@crypticmessenger]

Dodger is so beautiful!! 🐴 I think he did great for his first ground work session. Can't wait for whats to come with Dodger's training.❤

[@mariannecormier3021]

You're the perfect horse mom because you're wise enough to love him where's at.

[@emilyfrigge]

As someone who volunteers with rescue horses, I think Dodger is doing absolutely fantastic. Can't wait to see him gain confidence and a bit of muscle over time 😊 Always such an absolute pleasure to see how well you train and take care of all your horses 🐎💖

[@lisasullivan8261]

It’s nice watching Dodger visibly and quickly process all the newness in his new environment. A pleasure to see how quickly he shows his willingness to acclimate to your non stressful handling. He can only bloom and prosper! ❤

[@Dwsrs24]

Dodger is gorgeous! His mane & tail look like black silk and they flow beautifully. 🐴😍

[@tammygannan3518]

I love him. With your love & patience he's going to be wonderful

[@joancruickshank7771]

me too.

[@TomUnderwood-lv8xm]

Agree! 😊 L

[@jennifervanderyacht9709]

While I was watching you with Dodger, I got goosebumps. I’m not sure why but I’m looking at the way you handled him, and you showed no fear at his nervousness, and your calmness brought out the best of him. I can see where his body needs more work and I’ve never felt that. Great video of a horse who is becoming an excellent athlete. I am very impressed!

[@Dwsrs24]

Dodger, gorgeous boy❣️ You have so many fans cheering you on. Being new to the farm he does show nervousness, esp away from his herd where he feels safe. Hence his whinny to his herd saying, "Where are you? Whinny back to let me know where you are." But Shae will help him build his confidence, esp away from the herd. EXCITED to watch his journey at FSF! 🐴😍

[@BrendaHaltom]

Wonderful job Dodger! What beautiful shaped head!❤❤😊

[@heatherchampion3634]

Dodger is smart, and his curiosity is beginning to show. It didn't take long for him to feel safe and know he would survive the day. You're such an amazing horsewoman, and I look forward to seeing Dodger's journey unfold. ❤

[@carinslayton3147]

He's really nice and smooth!! Nice horse for students to show

[@Debbie-kt6ck]

He’s a lovely boy who wants affection and an aim in life, he’s at the perfect place for that ❤

[@MichelleSuggs-ls1ki]

The little head shake when you praised him during his initial lunge session so cute

[@tiffanygreen2359]

Thank God, he’s with Shay

[@AudreySuchoplas]

Dodger has a gorgeous tail!

[@slyfox4909]

I do love quarter horses. They have good minds and are so versatile. I had one with similar confirmation that was such a great horse. He should be a wonderful addition to your program.

[@cheriastrahan8453]

He's very well appointed for a quarter horse. He is a little under muscled but his movement looks treat and for QH conformation he's really good. I've only dealt wit QH horses for the the last 34 years. Great family horses when trained w/o force and given lots of praise. We've had 5 QH horses.

[@bcgrote]

Every horse should know cookies and pats. Love and trust. Faith and fun work. Dodger is safe and understood, he will thrive!

[@mistwalker11]

This video is probably the best illustration of your mission. Dodger is so lucky to be with you. I am fairly confident that with your care and guidance he'll thrive and then find the best possible forever home while already being a well-trained, well-behaved happy horse with no issues. :) It is so touching to see how loving you are. :)

[@cherylvantil6918]

That's why I am so drawn to Shae's videos - she trains and cares for her horses with an overwhelming sense of love.

[@virginiataylor330]

I am so in love with this beautiful boy. So happy he is with you, a person who not only understands horses but is willing to take their time and work with the horse with where they’re at.

[@LegendHold1]

Dodger's personality reminds me of a border collie....lots of nervous energy if they are not working. Working and everything is fine. But then again, Quarter Horses are ranch and working horse so it makes sense he needs a job to be happy, just like a border collie.

[@NatureLovers5610]

Poor Dodger! He's absolutely adorable! 🥺 He did so well, and you could tell he is really trying his best. ❤️ Love how you are so patient with him. 😊

[@sheilajensen555]

Definitely a smart, well trained horse. He is even more beautiful when I see him moving around. He is really smooth.

[@kathymazey1299]

You have such a good understanding of what you see each horse needs. He seems like he settles down while you talk to him, and is willing to learn. He’s doing great.

[@timikopacek716]

He is such a handsome boy. I love watching his personality start coming through.

[@bettiehass4091]

You are the horse whisperer I love your methods and the response you get from your horses. You never rush them. I think they would follow you anywhere. Or go anywhere with you.

[@dredra7160]

I really think Dodger is a beautiful horse. I'm not a big quarter horse person, but his build and color are gorgeous. His personality is unique and I like it. Go Dodger❤

[@marymacgregor6952]

You’re so good at helping horses deal with their issues. Your calmness and gentle nature is amazing and knowing what to expect.

[@cassiezimmerman8124]

Just came here to say I LOVE the way you explained everything. I feel like so many uneducated people buy a horse and just expect it to be like a machine. You are amazing! 🥰

[@nicsxnin6786]

So nice to watch horse videos here and know that I never have to worry about abuse or ignorance. Very relaxing. Dodger is going to be wonderful. I’m sure grateful he landed here.

[@erinestep6882]

He would not have survived much longer without Shae she saved him

[@renepena3024]

FSE IS a good place! I love how you consider so much about the psychology of each horse you get.

[@estherherranen6123]

YAY, Woman!! You are truly a horse 🐎 whisperer. You are so calm, and the horses feed off of your energy. I think he did well for his first time working with you. Congratulations 🎊 👏 💐!

[@susypettibone64]

You are such a loving and caring trainer/owner. Your horses are beyond lucky and anyone who is fortunate enough to get one of your horses knows they are solid.

[@juliefair6065]

Shae, your awesome and he is awesome!! I love your training and how you care for these horse babies! Dodger is going to be great and he is so gorgeous❤

[@girlinvt]

He did very well considering he's in a new home, with new people, herdmates and his world has changed from everything he's ever known. I'm pretty sure this beautiful baby had his own person at one time and he's unsure why they aren't here with him. That will be an adjustment for him and a grief issue as well as he adjusts to not having that person any more.

[@cyndiebill6631]

I love this horse!!! I like that he looks at things and doesn’t freak out over them. You found a jem when you found him. Very excited to follow his journey. You are going to have sooooo much fun with him.❤️🐴😄

[@jaanstephenswhite572]

What a cutie he is this Dodger Boy. He IS listening to you …. Already trusting you over his fear. Wonderful to see. Good job Shae

[@cherylmarquez2645]

Between being kept in a stall, the chaos of the auction & a new home & herd it's understandable he's nervous. 🥰

[@TTOnDuty22]

It’s your voice that makes them comfortable I believe. If you were an elementary school teacher the kids would love to learn going forward.

[@denisedavis6596]

He looks fantastic!! And you can tell he’s super smart. He’s going to build a strong love connection with you, I can feel it. When you were grooming his neck he was leaning into you, he’s craving your attention.

[@margrit7560]

Dodger is such a sweet, smart, handsome guy and I love how he responds to your calm and gentle demeanor.

[@EvelynsFarmDiaries]

So glad Dodger’s feeling better 💗 Can’t wait to see how he does!!

[@DeborahKeeney-mg3ft]

You are a fabulous, caring trainer. So adept at reading horse communication….I have only learned more about horses watching horse You tuber’s and respect you so much! Be brave Dodger! Happy he is in your capable hands!

[@GoldenLady9779]

It seemed like there was a moment where it clicked in his brain that "oh, I'm in here for training" once the anxiety subsided. He's such a beautiful sweet boy. 🎅

[@Nebulafiend]

I think he's landed in the right place. You can see something's going on in his head. He looks to me like he's a very good boy who just needs the right help to work through his problems. I think you came along at just the right moment to get him on track and help him reach his potential. Side note about his appearance: we've only really seen him after his winter coat started coming in. I have seen a bit of a sheen lurking in that coat when light catches him just right. I can't wait to see what he looks like in his summer coat in several months time. My guess is that he'll pale out to a dark gold. And if he's calmer and more confident by then, he's going to look like molten gold when he finally flies. That's my prediction anyway.

[@LesaMonroe-t8w]

Beautiful smart and courageous facing his fears in the arena great qualities in a horse

[@danyreese2052]

You really have a talent for bringing out and showcasing a horses personality. It's my favorite thing about this channel. You and Kyle pick really good horses. I like journey from auction to finding their place on the farm and embracing their horsey purpose. 😊❤

[@misschieflolz1301]

I know it takes time to adjust... seeing him at 2:35 reminds me of the horse I was elected to ride by the owner of the yard because he had issues and no one wanted to ride him. The yard staff did manage to turn him out every so often and it became quite apparent that he was a horse that couldn't handle being in, at least not in a barn with 20 odd other horses in winter. He never really adapted, he was almost constantly in that nervous state and spinning in his box to the point where he'd physically drop weight from one week to the next. I eventually convicned them that if it was mostly just me riding him, for my safety and his well being, he may as well go out with the ponies. I could tell if he'd been kept in for more than 48 hours at one point because of how much his weight would fluctuate. I think he was just a horse that would have done better at a very quiet yard

[@TomUnderwood-lv8xm]

Thx for sharing. 😊 L

[@thecoastlineintuitive8615]

Dodger is such a beautiful boy! I love how he was scared, but held himself together. He definitely reminds me of my old boy Chance in a lot of ways. I've always found when horses have consistency they do better. Looking forward to following along on his journey! As always hugs from Canada 🇨🇦 ❤

[@elizabethsakurai4253]

I love your first session with Dodger. I think he will become another star in your herd!!!❤🎉

[@Bluey-o7t]

I love dodger so much! he already seems to have such a personality, and his backstory is like something out a film! bless him, hope he's settling in okay!

[@susanhand1966]

I love and appreciate these teaching videos more than anything. I’m glad every horse is different❤Thanks Shae❤❤

[@loreleisato7481]

Very interesting work session, he was very nervous, eyes wide showing white then he relaxed slowly. It's incredibly useful content when you have a nervous or young horse. Also Très joli cheval ! Thank you.

[@bcgrote]

He will become a "go places do things" horse really soon. He's so responsive and sensitive.

[@Skills4u261]

He is adapting everything nicely and seems happy with you 😊

[@tammygannan3518]

It's seems like he's eager to learn & to do the work. I think your his saving grace & he's going to be a big blessing for you

[@TheLindagdetroit]

He strikes me as a horse who will be extremely grateful for the safe landing.

[@TomUnderwood-lv8xm]

​@@TheLindagdetroit I think life is looking better to this guy. 😊 L

[@TheLindagdetroit]

@@TomUnderwood-lv8xm He was so brave investigating the indoor arena after working through some of his body's sympathetic response. It was really neat to see him go investigate the far end & round bales on his own. 💗 Have you discovered Down the Trail Logging yet? He's a horse logger

[@TomUnderwood-lv8xm]

Will follow up on this. Thx. L

[@TheLindagdetroit]

@@TomUnderwood-lv8xm yw! seems like something you'd appreciate. it's fascinating. he's currently logging in some rather hilly terrain with a team of American Brabants. The way logs get maneuvered out of the forest and up on the wagon is a ballet of teamwork

[@k.h.7575]

Dodger came to the right person, so great to see ❤

[@pokegirl302]

Every video of Dodger reminds me more and more of a Quarter Horse my riding instructer owned. Spot was gift from her ex-husband who is a horse trainer to their son but needed more work than someone starting college has the time for. She spent years and I dont want to imagine how much money to figure out the right combination of medication, lifestyle, and training to bring him to the point where he was truly beginner safe.

[@PredictableEnigma]

You can see the stall anxiety for sure. Here's hoping he can realize that he'll never need to be stalled for long periods anymore! I'm sure with enough time of doing right by him that he'll come around

[@user-sn8vm8yl1l]

Thank God that he is w you. I love the way he is trying so hard to please you through all his fears. That speaks volumes about you and your training. Amazing boy🐎❤ Amazing training💯

[@debbieredmon5063]

He is lovely and I love how quiet you are. Dodger is my kind of horse. Not a huge AQHA fan but he is the very type I would choose. Awesome!

[@sharonnelson4806]

You are the horse whisperer, Shae! What a great session! You obviously have a great eye for potential in horses! And he is absolutely stunning 😍 ❤❤

[@sandybowers5085]

I think he did amazing after being in quarantine for a while longer than usual. Shae, you are so incredible with your approach to the individualized training and process for each of your horses ❤I have learned so much from you 💯🥰