Helping my friend with her PROBLEM HORSE

First of all, I don't believe in the word, "problem horse" but its a horse with problems, usually because of us. It's up to us to try to understand them and listen to what they are trying to say, even when it gets difficult. This term gets used a lot and I never quite know how to feel about it as it sounds like the horse is a problem, something to keep in mind and hopefully that term will change :)
** I forgot to put it in the video but the horse has fully been checked by the VET.
Hey guys!!
I apologise for the wind in the video.. But we live in the Netherlands :')
In this video I will try to help a horse that is struggling a little bit with his feelings..
Of course I don't know everything but I just want to help the horse by hopefully changing the mindset and showing that he is allowed to express his feelings and also try without having to be afraid to make mistakes. Just focussing on the positives and hopefully letting this grow.
This is part one, in the coming videos we will work on doing a few different groundwork things and improving our communication.
Hopefully you will be part of this full journey and lets go for a great outcome!
INSTAGRAM: @_jessedrent
WEBSITE & SHOP: www.jessedrent.com
HAYGAIN INFORMATION:
Discount code: Jesse5
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[@JesseDrent]

I will do my very best and also get help where needed. Also I forgot to put it in the video but the horse has fully been checked by the VET multiple times.

[@clarejenkins2422]

He's a beautiful boy and I'm looking forward to seeing how you can help him figure himself out. He definitely deserves a chance and big ups to his owner for not giving up on him.

[@anne-theresefagerli6939]

you can do it, he is a big boy with lots of energy, and so good with body awareness. easy learner!🥰

[@nayaognaffe]

Hes beauty or you very talented you a very good horse owner or rider❤

[@hollywill2226]

IMHO he doesn't have enough living, exercise space. If all he has for turn out is that pen at the end of the video, and a stall, and being under saddle ....no wonder he is explosive!! He's not a machine or a robot...horses are perpetual movement animals!! He need turning out into a huge space daily so he can clear his head thru exercise. That girl is not a good fit for that power house. Champ needs another owner...an athletic person able to do tons of groundwork and be a kind but firm leader or she'll end up badly hurt. Jesse will succeed but his owner won't unless she makes some changes. She needs a 16 hand hack, not a huge show jumping/dressage prospect.

[@nayaognaffe]

@@hollywill2226 agree

[@NightshadeGoddess]

Love how calm you are when working with him, so many people get angry or frustrated which makes the horse act worse. You really have a fantastic bond with horses, I'm impressed again every.single.time!

[@jinte3415]

This!

[@donnapalmeri9573]

As I have said,many times,Jesse Drent is the "Dutch Horse Whisperer"!! ❤

[@hollyobrien2816]

Yes!!! Well said. I used to get made fun of when I did not scold my horse or get mad when he expressed frustration instead similar to Jesse approach, allowed him to "be a horse" and proceed with helping him. Jesse said something soooo important, "it is ok to let him show that he doesn't like something and help him through it". Soooo rare these days with horse owners. LOVED this video. Jesse is stunning, a true natural, a true original, heart of gold.

[@donnapalmeri9573]

Jesse is AMAZING!! 😊

[@myhappygecko2895]

he seems like a super confused big old baby who has no idea what is happening and holding tantrums lol. You worked so well with him, can't wait to see more!

[@chrysokami]

Exactly! ♡

[@N0N4M30]

I’m sure he would profit from some physiotherapy

[@skywonderly1768]

Not confused I would say not confident because the horse is young

[@morgancredito]

I love this owner because she is just not giving up on her horse. Very good job, can’t wait to see what results you get from the training exercises.

[@michelemason1663]

I agree….it seems like he just needs some solid ground work as to me he seems unsure of himself and will feel better once he gains confidence.

[@bkm2797]

Certainly is a handsome horse in the prime of his life! I'm sure his human is very grateful for your willingness to give it a go. Jesse, you are a gift to the horse world when it comes to human, horse communication. Looking forward to the process. Thank you Jesse for taking us along, see you soon.

[@marinagallant1847]

Jesse, animals love you. That's a great sign.

[@blaisearwyn3405]

Love seeing/hearing Jessé in training mode. He does a great job explaining what he is doing & expecting. Looking forward to the continuation of this journey whereever it may lead.

[@blackequine.official]

For sure, its one of the greatest lessons animals teach us, the problem is not the animal it is us. My animals especially my dog and horse taught me this... in the right hands so much is possible

[@roseschaefer5079]

The fact that he was so reactive on the ground shows how he was not anywhere near ready to work under saddle. Until all of those things are ironed out, riding is only going to make things worse. He also seems a bit frightened of Jesse approaching his right-side hindquarters.

[@fleetskipper1810]

I don’t think he’s frightened so much as he doesn’t understand what Jesse is asking, which is to yield his hind quarters by stepping across in back.

[@roseschaefer5079]

@@fleetskipper1810 I agree that there is a lack of understanding, but the big reactions suggest he doesn't trust people not to harm him.

[@skywonderly1768]

Yes well said, horse needs lots more ground work and more confidence and reassure with a confident partner.

[@sirenserenades]

This looks like a typical case of a neurological disease. He's spontaneously kicking and protecting his hind - from what, unless pain? There is most likely something going on within his central nervous system that bothers him, especially since this is a behavior that came "out of nowhere" as the owners described. The thing with vet checks is that when a behavior is still present - even when vets said "it's not pain" - there is pain. This is a pain response behavior on the lower back, could be disc problems, equine shivers or another neurologic or neuromuscular disease. I wouldn't give up the search just because he was already checked many times - vets miss these types of diseases all the time. Horse behavior never lies. You're doing a great job though Jesse, trying to listen to him and being very diplomatic and straight forward. Hoping he'll do progress eventually

[@Lyrazel]

I agree fully. There are also quite telling indications in how twitchy he is in the skin and the way he tosses his head back as if bitten by a bug or something. He's exploding about as if feeling a need to shake of some vague irritant. Unless the horse is severely mismanaged (in a small paddock with no friends and lots of hard feed) high energy shouldn't be the cause of this behaviour. Also looking at how open and willing the horse is to do the physically easy exercise of turning the hind inside the difference between that and how he is while moving is striking. Specifically it seems movement or the anticipation of movement is bothering this horse. It would be very unsusal if it wasn't in some way pain related.

[@sirenserenades]

@@Lyrazel i got that impression too, something is irritating him constantly and he’s trying to get away from the discomfort or pain inside his body. I also noticed he’s keeping the tail very tucked in, showing excessive tension somewhere along the spine. I did however also see at the very end he was let out in a very small sanded square with no friends. So that would only contribute to the bad situation imo. The “itchy” behavior might be from being consistently too hot with the double blankets, but on that I can’t really speak on since I don’t know the temperatures etc. But I can say it’s very common, especially in sport horses, that horse owners over-blankets their horses. When you put your hand under the blanket, around the withers, it shouldn’t feel warm, it should be a neutral body temperature. Rolling is a sign of being too hot, which he instantly did when let out in his sand paddock.

[@DancerSeattle]

My vet had told me that my mare had weak stifles and she suggested pelvic tilt and raising her back daily to help her. Look for my long post to see what else I am doing for her.

[@oldjacket9]

I really admire that the owner didn’t give up, and acknowledged that she needed help. That’s a great horse owner right there.

[@nilo70]

Jesse , you have found your calling. Cheers From California 😊

[@amandamason6699]

Lots of patience and time will help so much. He’s very tense. If it was me I would go back to basic ground work for a while before riding him. He’s so sweet and a beautiful horse. Best of luck with him 😀

[@Ceciel_]

Love to see him knowing and doing exactly that! :)

[@BanglesAU]

He seems rather anxious, its so nice to see him being taught in a gentle way instead of just adding equipment and harsh training to try and make him submit. Kudo's to the owner for getting you to come and try to help him, I am sure you can do amazing things with him.

[@cricket8438]

I hope you will take us along with you while working with Champ. I learned so must in this session. ❤

[@JZ-ce2bk]

❤️

[@mildwild8342]

This horse looks very spirited, talented and curious. The stables has no windows and I guess if having not enough of stimuli and a loads of energy in a very able body could cause that kind of bizarre reactions to environment. Almost looks like the horse doesn't like how wind feels on his mane and tale and is trying to kick of that tale multiple times! No aggressiveness toward his humans and Jesse is doing a great job in trying to help him to get use to it's sensitive, athletic body and trouble environment. Thank you for the owner for trying!

[@Lliryht]

My horse has been fully checked by a vet, too and cam back completely clear. He was being so good one second and then suddenly exploded out of nowhere. Turns out he has PSSM type 2 and after getting him on the right diet the symptoms of exploding on the ground and under the rider have nearly completely stopped! Unfortunately a lot of vets still discard PSSM type 2 tested through the genetic testing offered by Generatio in Germany. But the test results where the key to him getting better and getting back to being able to work with him again. But of course it can be something else entirely. In our case the test results and changing his diet to grain free and special supplements / mineral feed has helped and improved him so much. Maybe that'd be a possibility, too, if he's not tested yet. Lots of warmbloods actually have PSSM type 2.

[@firehorse2008]

Sometimes explosive horses just need a big space to run in. If all he has is a stall, a small paddock area and a riding ring, I don't blame him for being frustrated. He's a big horse and a young horse who probably just wants to be able to run at top speed out in a huge pasture. He has a lot of pent-up energy and no way to release it. I know Jesse will will definitely be able to help. He just has a natural way of communicating with animals to put them at ease. I'm really looking forward to more videos of this interesting journey. Lots of horses and their owners could probably use Jesse's help. 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽

[@friezenfan]

I bet Champ get's to run around a field all summer with friends but there just aren't enough grassy meadows in the netherlands to have horses on them. Big stables here have small paddocks in the winter so the horses aren't cooped up in a stable all day. If you would keep them outside the whole year they will never have fresh grass and it will all turn into sand.

[@liennuh]

@@friezenfan If there's no room to fulfill a basic need for your horse, you shouldnt have a horse. The Randstad doesnt have enough fields or big paddocks to give all the horses that people want enough turnout. Yet people buy themselves a horse and board them at stables that have nice things, but just a 30 minute turnout in a paddock. It's cruel. But because people are selfish and because people care more about their own needs than the needs of the animals, these stables have enough customers and the horses suffer.

[@alisav8394]

Agreed! I remember an ad in a local horse magazine that offered to teach your horse to go bitless and bridless but one important requirement was that your horse spends at least 6 hours a day outside in a paddock. I think that's the biggest source of all our problems with horses.

[@fleetskipper1810]

@@alisav8394From my personal experience, you are so right. Turnout for six or more hours a day solves many, many behavioral problems.

[@lisaweinberger4197]

I have a 5 yr old Throughbred bred that acts similar to this guy. She is in a very large pasture (20 acres) with 10 other horses. She has plenty of room to stretch her legs and playmates the same age as her. She is out for 8-10 hours each day. Despite all of the time she has to burn out her energy she still displays similar anxiety related behaviors. I often notice she acts more anxious in bigger spaces. Seems very counterintuitive. I cant quite figure her out

[@nang.s.8869]

Jesse once again doing what he does best. Animals know a good human when they meet one and Jesse’s patience is a gift.

[@delainekeenum9108]

Jesse, you are so intuitive with the horses. I would love to see how it progresses with Champ.

[@Jessie-bo3nt]

Lovely work with him Jesse. He was far more relaxed and focused by the end. He seems like a horse who is not getting his need for movement/autonomous exercise met, so whenever he gets the chance to move his feet, he is just explosive and tense. He even appeared to attempt to self-mutilate at times (the "itchiness" on his shoulder). His turnout paddock is very small, not enough space for him to do much more than just stand there. That he was once quiet enough for lessons but has changed suddenly in the last year seems to suggest to a management issue.

[@friezenfan]

There just isn't enough grassy meadows in the Netherlands for horses to be in there all year round. Big stables use these small paddocks so that the horse doesn't end up in the stable all that. I bet Champ gets to run around in a lovely field with friends all summer.

[@Jessie-bo3nt]

@@friezenfan Hopefully that is the case! I see a lot of pasturage behind that arena. But he is very clearly not a happy or relaxed horse in the here and now, so it is always good to start by examining the horse's fundamental management and see where it might not be meeting his needs, since physical/health issues have been ruled out. Many behavioral issues are management issues at their core.

[@danceswithhector5867]

He certainly liked his scratches that Jesse gave him. But I also felt that there was a little too much anxiety in the way Champ chose to scratch at his own shoulders. Just an observation; definitely no cristicism. The windy day wouldn't have helped the horse to relax!

[@friezenfan]

@@Jessie-bo3nt if you put a horse out in that pasture right now before the weather is gonna be nice the grass will be ruined. That is the case in the netherlands. i my guess is that there isn't anything better nearby. it's big issue around the big cities in the netherlands.

[@Jessie-bo3nt]

@@friezenfan I understand that Champ is probably on a sacrifice lot for the winter to save the pasture. Hopefully he goes out on pasture with friends in the summer. And I get how difficult it is to keep horses near urban areas - I am right by NYC and space is limited here too. But that does not change the reality that Champ could have unmet needs. It could be that Jesse working with him will be enough to help him settle physically and mentally. There is also more than one way to provide a horse with free exercise - pasture turnout is not the only option. But I don’t believe Champ moving from stall to sacrifice paddock at his age and with his good condition is enough exercise or stimulation for him, especially as he is not even being ridden.

[@annamaegold]

His canter is all over the place. Like he's in a different lead with every single leg. Love your boots by the way.

[@pamelapeterson2987]

Champ reminds me so much of what happened with my own horse when he had a change of environment....he was kept out with other horses where I bought him at age 4 1/2, but my own trainer put him in a stall/paddock and suddenly he had all kinds of dangerous/explosive behavioral issues. I moved him a year later and switched trainers (like Champ's owner, I was not willing to just give up on my horse), and the new trainer convinced me to keep him in a pasture with other horses instead of in a stall/paddock by himself. With the new trainer and new environment, he literally almost changed overnight back into the calm, sweet horse that I had bought. Turns out he REALLY needed to play with other horses to be happy and get out excess energy..he's 22 now and still plays HARD every morning with my other geldings in my home pasture, and he is always calm and ready to ride for me.

[@Ceciel_]

It’s so sad to see he doesn’t seem mean, but just confused! Lots of luck with him though and lots of respect towards Anouk for not giving up and him! 🙏

[@suzanne9622]

Changes in behavior and skin sensitivity both with rapid onset are signs of Lyme disease. Not saying he has Lyme but just a thought if he hasn't been tested yet. Jesse please stay safe and don't take chances that are too risky. It is very kind of you to try and help. Wish you and the horse the best. I will watch video later on today.

[@DancerSeattle]

I respect you and I respect your love and care of horses. You might be missing something here. I see in your horse something I began to see in my own 6 yo horse: week stifles. My horse would clamp her tail down when lunging, she would stand with one back leg, back beyond her tail, she could lunge nicely to the left but she would rear or stop going to the right. She was born on a flat farm, no hills at all. I am solving her issues, with the help of a great trainer in my barn, and with daily work, 3 days mounted (we worked up to that) and four days in hand. The in hand work is walking up and down hills for about 20 minutes, lunging both directions, and lunging over poles on the ground both directions. When riding, she has a warm quarter sheet on her bum (this made a huge difference), and we only walk and trot using movements that engage her hind quarters, and over poles on the ground. A key thing that I learned from a race horse trainer was to pull on her tail with both hands at right angles to her spine. I do this 10 times to a count of 10 on each side. I started with 5 times for a couple of days so she didn't object. She will stand still for this because it makes her feel better. Lots of licking and chewing afterward. After only 6 weeks of this, she moves much better and she lunges with a nice arc in her tail. She has a long way to go yet, but I am thrilled with the results so far. Today, I noticed the horizon beyond Champ and I thought about Giao, too. I hope this helps you and many other horses that don't have hills to work on.

[@DancerSeattle]

Before I started this process to help my horse, she was biting herself, just as Champ is doing. She still does it a bit, but she has gotten better with this symptom, too.

[@eledatowle8767]

Great comment! I, too, think it's an issue with his stifles, or particularly the left one. I never heard of the tail-pull therapy, but that's very interesting, and great to know it's helped your horse.

[@kkeenan536]

Watching the video of him being ridden my first thought was, he has no idea what is wanted of him. A pleasure to see Jesse work with him to gain trust and understanding of what is expected. Thank you Jesse for always being so sensitive to the animals needs

[@annieclark6535]

I honestly am drawn to horses like him. People consider them "problems" but they're almost always just very intelligent creatures who need extra help to figure things out. And he adored his scratches so much! That was super cute, he kept asking for them too! 😍

[@lunarmodule7802]

He is one lucky horse to have a caring owner who is exploring all avenues of rehabilitation/training for him. I have no doubt we will see some amazing work from Jesse on this project. Goedzo!

[@darkprinzeschen]

I think: disclaimer I don't know the horse nor the owner but this seems the typical situation where the horse has been asked too much too soon. Then after all that pressure the horse started to say no, and then had to say it louder. It seems as he doesn't have good basics to start with. Some people get too focused on movements and tests and forget that without the basics is just not worth it. Some horses cope well and some others don't. Of course horses have personality and this one seems to have a strong one. Hopefully thanks to Jesse he settles and gets some manners to start with and he will be a much happier horse. With these situations though consistency is key. I just hope the owner is happy to continue to whatever Jesse decides to change.

[@autumnleaves4879]

Wow. This is just amazing to watch. Most people would've already had 'too much' during the lunging part where Champ was very reactive. But not Jesse! He understood the horse so well and wasn't scared of an animal that was not threatening him but expressing anger. I'm possibly tearing up a bit because it's so beautiful to see a horse getting exactly the respect it deserves while being guided to be a 'trained' horse

[@ccline9856]

Jesse! U are the horse whisperer! This is your calling. Helping horses 🐎

[@podunk_woman]

Haven't watched yet, but I've been watching Steve Young work with problem horses. Amazing results. It'll be interesting to see the differences. You might want to watch him a bit. And Warwick Schiller. Both fantastic.

[@tiniselles]

I also watch Steve Young and find it amazing what he can do

[@lolosrainydays]

Me too. He is very methodical with his initial tests to find out about the horse. Then focuses on what the horse needs to improve with.

[@DoubleDogDare54]

There are any number of American Western trainers who make both of those guys look like novices. Especially the unheralded ones that are involved in the "mustang makeover" programs. Their methods and results are amazing and outstanding.

[@podunk_woman]

@@DoubleDogDare54 there are a few awful ones too 😬

[@podunk_woman]

@@lolosrainydays I love that both Schiller and Young really understand and use horse psychology: herd mentality, herd leader, fight or flight. They make doing the right thing easy. That's basically Schiller's mantra and a fundamental tenet of Steve Young's training. I have learned more than I ever thought I'd know just watching them.

[@maffell6427]

It is so interesting to see how you read the horse and how you approach him! I would love to see an update on this huge boy.

[@michaelbrown-tf1so]

Amazing. I can see Champ beginning to take a chance at trusting you ... to maybe recognizing and experience loving kindness from you. You Jesse Drent, so much love inside the being you are. The world is blessed to have you in it.

[@ady1gilb]

Yoooo Jesse! Now here's a guy knows a quality dude when he reads about one (you). This is a man who isn't afraid to show or verbalize his respect for your talent & abilities! You deserve no less. ❤️😄❤️

[@veritasreigns]

The way he mouths everything, almost like a child seeking comfort. I know you are going to help him. Thank you.

[@underdog264]

This is awesome - It’s so hard working through past issues, especially with a young horse that seems to have had a bad experience.

[@ady1gilb]

Sadly, it's always hard working through past issues when there's a bad experience involved. It's a dirty job but sometimes we all gotta do it .😕

[@trinefj11]

i feel like hes one of those horses that got trained to not react to fear and he just snapped because things became to much, hes such a sweet boy that just needs help

[@audreymaqks]

Jesse you have to be the best trainer/horse behaviorist in the World. Beautiful nervous horse that needs the confidence you give. He almost acts as if maybe earlier trainers may have punished him for making mistakes. Just a guess on my part since I do not know his history. To me he seems as if he wants to please but blows up when he gets confused. If anyone can fix him you are the person. Best to you, Champ and his owner. May his future be bright. You are indeed a horse whisperer

[@kkheinrich9224]

I agree, this beautiful, yet scared horse maybe recounting all his past failures with humans. He truly NEEDS A LEADER . One that knows his language. Not ours! He needs to know rhe human is listening. All the pressure -with no releasing = explosive equine. SAFETY. COMFORT ,FOOD Top three cares of horses. & who moves the hooves is Leader. My TB mare was mind blown in school, like him , but thankfully smaller. 15.3 She'd been ridden with a short tie down, till she bled for poor saddle fit-30 days straight. Then was given to me. Pressure blew her mind. Bolting, rearing bucking, just from- trainer's having me take contact or exaggerate my leg . Sometimes just a simple lunge shed go crazy & erupt. I had to quit lessons , not lunge around others , and practically buy extra insurance where I boarded. You know what I did- I hit the trails- never ever had another issue. 17 years of bliss . I practiced "Trailssage". Halfpass,shoulder in/out ,flying changes whatever would have been done in arena. She'd load up ,when I pointed to the trailer . She lead rides,crossed creeks, bridges ,rivers . All bitless and "soft saddle" cashell bareback pad. She went to the beaches, Mountains, jumped anything I pointed her towards---- But, that school, in the arena, blew her mind. Though, I came back to the lunge - but free- She'd do walk trot(slow and low or extended, canter, piaffe - ALL WITH HAND SIGNALS no words. Hope Jesse reaches this horse- I Imagine he did,or he wouldn't by airing this- if it failed. For me,I was a bit cringy with Jesse not having any personal a space,nibbling nudging,knocking into him...not very good. Bless He ❤️ rt PR🙏 YING for his continued safety.

[@suzycue9278]

Let me just first say that this horse is stunningly gorgeous and kudos to the very caring owner for continuing to help her horse find resolve!!!!! Next, I just don’t believe this is a behavioral issue - I know you said he’s been vetted many times…. But he keeps his tail pretty tucked and moves his butt and back legs pretty stiff at times and kicks out as if he is trying to rid/release a sensation and holds his head very high as if to compensate for what is going on in the back end. You notice when he walks through the barn his head is low and he is for the most part relaxed… but seems to act up when being asked to bend or move out…. it’s almost like something locks up within him that causes him to act out as if trying to release what has locked up….I just don’t think this is a behavioral issue…. my last thought is to have the animal communicator come out that Matt used before and see if she can pick up anything up…. I really think he’s got something physically going on….have you had a chiro out for their thoughts? Again, gorgeous gorgeous boy! Sending good wishes his way as I hate to see a horse struggle for any reason and again kudos to the very caring owner ❤️

[@SaltyGreene]

Clearly we are all looking forward to learning more along with you. You are greatly admired for your insights and style!

[@kari8187]

He fiddles with the lead rope like a kid with a fidget and wants to be anywhere but with humans. Sweet boy, he’ll catch on with the right guidance.

[@larry56faye82]

I love it so much how you start from the ground! Not lunging, not tiring him out. But give him things to think and try out! I think some horses act out, because they are either confused or bored quickly. So fun to watch and good luck on this journey😊😊

[@ady1gilb]

The thing that's so lovely about Jesse working with horses is that it opens the doors to lots of great conversations & helpful suggestion & ideas. We all get to feel involved in the process!!! And who wouldn't just LOVE to be right there with him? ❤️😄❤️

[@TheGarnetObsidian]

Wow! Beautifully stated, Adrienne..♥

[@ady1gilb]

@@TheGarnetObsidian Thank you! 😄👍

[@FormerlyknownasPonti]

Ground work is SO GOOD for all horses, no matter if they're "problem" horses or not. So excited that he's getting that experience with you ♥️ I have gotten a horse that felt trapped when you put any pressure on him. After a month of ground work (and with coaching from someone who knows all about it), he was so much happier and relaxed. Our communication improved so much. Can't wait to see how Champ responds!

[@loribadgero1035]

Wow! By 8 minutess in, there were already significant changes in his behavior, but by 13 minutes, wow!! When you finished the video, to see how calmly he stood behind you was amazing! You have the touch, Jesse. 💯🏆🐴

[@nicitanic]

You do realize that he didn’t only work with him for 13 minutes, don’t you?

[@vickiehunt2676]

Such a beautiful boy. I have complete respect for his owner seeking help and the confident and compassionate way you worked with him. I'm so relieved that I'm not alone in this kind of challenge. When my boy, similar in size and breeding, was 6, he was so much like this. Took lots of groundwork, patience, and consistency to help him mature into a respectful and confident partner. Still, now at 10, there are challenges, but nothing like his former behavior. One thing please do: put overreach boots and exercise boots on him so he doesn't hit himself when he acts up and moves quickly sideways. It only takes one time for him to step on his coronet band or knock himself on a tendon or cannon bone and you'll have an unfortunate injury.

[@sharontalaga5924]

Jesse someone mentioned that you are a gift to the horse world. I agree 💯 %. You are amazing with horses. Can't wait to see the next videos.

[@friezenfan]

As a dutch person I should clarify that the small paddock you see at the end it potentially just in the winter. Not allot of grassy meadows here. So in order for the horses to be outside in the winter most stables use paddocks like these to save the grass for the summer. I bet Champ gets to go into a nice big field with friends ever summer for as long as the grass holds up. And you can't judge this horse owner after a video this short. I would applaud this horse owner because she keeps reaching out to people to help her horse. And you can see progress even in this short video. Jesse has a nice calm energy around him that might with time help Champ. I can't wait for the update on this.

[@MegF142857]

Yes, I was wondering if the horse has an option to get to run in a large pasture. Perhaps horses should get time in a large arena area each day at least - loose.

[@friezenfan]

@@MegF142857 the horses would mess up the ground in an arena. So no big stables will allow that. It's only a couple of months till they can go back to the fields

[@liennuh]

@@friezenfan It's abuse, that's what it is. You can't clarify abuse. A few months in a tiny paddock is horrible. Don't own horses if there's no space, or move to a place that does have the space. But not in a city area.

[@liennuh]

@@friezenfan Funny thing is though, there's enough room to make more and bigger paddocks, instead of these tiny ones, where they also stand alone. Another basic need not met btw, interaction. I'm not against paddocks, doesn't have to be a field. But it does need to be bigger, and in a group. This is not ok.

[@leslienicolehoge7003]

Love how he’s calm and not getting mad at the horse and getting all frustrated

[@JodieTotman]

Surprised he's been ridden in the past, he acts so green! What great patience everyone has with him learning the basics again

[@lunarfaerie8552]

I love seeing Jesse in work/training mode. He is so in tune with his horses that this no doubt benefits other more troubled horses. I’ve no doubt that Champ is in safe hands here 😊

[@Jgirr5]

The owner certainly has my sympathy and applause for keeping and doing all she can to help solve Champs' issues. 🙌 Great start and hopefully you'll take us along on the journey as far as can be. Prayers up for Champ. 🙏❣

[@fluffymountainbunny]

You;'re a horse whisperer, Jesse! I'm so he's taken to you so you can help him get calmer, and to teach the owner to help him too. Bravo to her to asking for help when she felt like she needed it- the sign of a good owner!

[@MorwynOmbra]

He's got such a baby face, he really just looks confused (and frustrated because of it) more than anything. For him to have such a nice first meeting with you on a VERY windy day really speaks to how much experience you have to maintain composure when the horse isn't able to themselves. Really, that kind of weather can inspire even a mild mannered older horse to be a bit hotsy-totsy! I'm very excited to learn from your experiences with him and as always greatly admire your commitment to approaching any "problem" with patience and compassion.

[@bttrflymagic]

I’m amazed at how calm and kind you were with him, even with how big and unpredictable he is. So impressed by both you and his owner for trying to help him and not just writing him off.

[@debbieking3442]

So kind of you to help Champ. Please keep us posted how he does in his progress. He's beautiful.

[@ninakaiser2930]

Welcome Champ - what a gorgeous horse! Thank you for taking us along and for explaining so well. It will be an interesting journey for sure! And I hope Champ and his owner get to be an amazing team together!

[@plarkin6433]

The animals LOVE JESSE🥰 I usually get uneasy, Im concerned someone will mistreat the animals, but never with Jesse You're really extraordinary! Thank You

[@deborahdufel1664]

This is extraordinary man and I like the way he includes his life and how he helps the fearful horse. Thank you for sharing.

[@Elliesan08]

I look forward to seeing the video updates of this guy, he has already thrived in just this one session with you, Jesse. You can tell he had a lot of pent up energy and frustration and didn't know what to do with it, you truly are a gift to horses and let them express how they feel about it, without just assuming they're being bad and getting after them for it. He seems like a such a sweetie, even though he is also dominant and wanted to take control

[@PONYHEAVEN]

Bless you, Jessie.

[@michelineduvieusart2439]

Champ is a gorgeous sweet horse still very young. His behaviour is unpredictable and it is best to avoid riding him. Even ground work is not easy! He has a lot of energy and is dominant but his behaviour is also suggesting fear, he seems stressed and tense. Maybe he feels pain? He has been checked several times by the vet but some pathologies of the body or mind are not always easy to detect. I don't mean that the vet is incompetent!!! Is your friend his first owner? Anything special happened in Champ's life? Jesse has started work sessions and if the problem can be corrected or solved, he is definitely the man for the job. I sincerely hope so for the horse and his owner. Jesse, being able to look at your well explained work is always very interesting and I will be happy to see you soon. Thank you so much! 💙

[@lrkenielsen8856]

This is why it’s so important to remember doing groundwork and not only tack up and get on. Change things up so they have to use their minds. This will create better bonds as well

[@tammysimons4916]

Jesse I'm glad you are patient, kind, gentle, and caring. He is a beautiful horse and I believe you will be able to help him and his owner. Looking forward to seeing more of this horse and how he progresses.

[@zadeira]

Some people just have a natural feeling for horses. I'm not saying that Jesse didn't work for it, trianed himself and all that, but you can tell that Jesse has that natural feeling and goes with the flow of the horse. He is really intuitive and reads horses very well. He is also really good at explaining and making people that watch him understand why he's doing certain things ans how he's thinking when training horses.

[@kathrynkneeland7179]

Want to watch your training. You are wonderful with horses. You will win him over.

[@artobscuraphotography3825]

so interesting! loved to watch it!

[@EllieSueMay]

You can tell that he was an insecure big baby that’s frustrated and not understanding what is being asked of him. Then once he started understanding what you were asking he got it and relaxed. He also started trusting you.

[@kathleenkayk]

Great to see Champ go from confused and frustrated to confident. Jesse's patient and clear direction makes all the difference. I hope his owner can continue because Champ has graceful movement when he can understand. Kudos to all 3 of you.

[@lucinda3728]

Just beautiful.

[@shazza10009]

I don't like to post much but I got to say this horse is full of anxiety. The tail tucking is a red flag, and a few times when he kicks around he is attempting to kick at his tail. He looks to have very tight fascia over his body and it shows in a few ways. Him trying to nibble at himself regularly at his chest, nostrils tight, and then Jessie pats him you can see the horse "flinch" and bends to his touch a few times. This decreases a bit when the horse warms up as the muscles warm up. This horse needs a lot of fascia release and body work. Tight in hamstrings/Semi-tendinosus, Brachiocephalic, Teres minor areas. The groundwork will just be a bandaid. The horse needs his body worked on first. Like a lot....

[@briarcunningham7284]

Wow..this is very similar to my 15 mo.old Shire/TB cross…he’s almost as big as Champ is already and is sweet but sometimes pushy. This video is so good! It reminds me to be firm, but to not make him feel like he is always in trouble. Thank you so much and I am eager to see more!

[@sidilicious11]

Yes! I used to get so worried and tense myself when mine acted like Champ. It’s taken me years to learn to relax, be patient, tolerant, not scold, redirect and be as light as possible and firm as necessary. Jesse obviously knows all that and more. And I’m so impressed by most of the commenters knowing all this too.

[@zuzuspetals8323]

Awh. Champ has taken a shine to you, Jesse. I know you will help him find peace in his body and in his life. Bravo! I look forward to the next master class. 😉

[@noelmay9]

You are a gem to take on this horse and his emotional state. I'm wondering if this horse gets any liberty time in an open space, and does he get playtime with any other horses? He seems mentally very young, with TONS of pent-up energy in both his mind and body. Both he and the owner are lucky to have you on their team now! I look forward to watching how things go with you all 🖤

[@friezenfan]

I bet he gets to run in a lovely field all summer but there just isn't enough grassy meadows in the Netherlands to keep your horse in a field all year round. Big stables like this turn them out in small paddocks in the winter to save the grass for the summer. It's better then standing in a stable all day

[@janeilsley1131]

He is a stunning horse. I feel he is super green really confused and frustrated and maybe he has given his lovely owner a big fright and he is reading her as frightened not a leader to teach guide and nurture.

[@dcrouch1980]

Very nice young horse who has figured out that he is the biggest thing around and tends to use that knowledge to get his point across. Starting over from the beginning is usually the best course of action at that point because respect is mutual. you have approached it a lot like I would have so thumbs up.

[@klaudiaparulska232]

He’s such a sensitive emotionally child ❤

[@jillrichards8260]

H3s still very young. Seems to be a bit confused when being. Asked.. patience is aa virtue. I like your quiet approach

[@davidhorwood6741]

What a lovely horse. So good to see him learning so quickly under your guidance Jesse. Consistency and boundaries are the key, like managing a young child. Congratulations to the owner for working through the issues instead of just passing them on to the next owner. Champ will get there. 💚

[@lauradenio5846]

You are so compassionate with that horse. I 💕 it

[@trex2704]

Reminds me a lot of a mare I worked with recently. Took a year and a half but we got her good and relaxed and more confident through a combination of turnout in a herd with a lead mare that demanded respectful behavior without being mean about it, using shorter sessions, and started by only asking yes questions. Made a massive difference.

[@rustymcnitt5508]

Jessy your kindness, understanding and patience will help Champ to find his peace. Thank you for sharing best always Rusty

[@ady1gilb]

Hi Rusty! Yr comments are always so classy, articulate & supportive! Well done (once again)!!! 😄👍🤗

[@erstwhile6163]

Jesse, it is a privilege to watch you work with this lovely horse. I look forward to seeing how he progresses.

[@heatherwatson7692]

This is incredible to watch. You're low key demeanor while also explaining to us what was going on was wonderful. I loved the way he watched you waiting for you to react to what he was doing. He did seem a bit confused when you didn't react. Then he would try to do something else waiting again for your reaction, and you just kept constantly talking low and giving him the commands. It can be done, but as you said, it's going to take some sessions. I'm a little bit behind in watching, so I'm looking forward to seeing how Champ progresses. You can tell his bright, because he's picked up your whistling and shushing sounds and knows what to do when you make those noises only after a few moments. Then the reaction with the whip to bringing His hind end in..incredible. Thanks for taking us on this journey.

[@strandgirl1000]

How the horse licks the lips! This is very good work, Jesse! He calms down! Because You work calmly and firmly. Super!

[@cynthiaweathers6979]

Lucky horse. He's in very capable hands. The best. Looking forward to seeing the progress 😊

[@eskajansevanrensburg7845]

I loved seeing this. My horse is not explosive, but he doesn't like to lunge and I've been struggling to teach him because I don't want to fight. People have tried to help me but I don't like there methods. I never thought of trying with schooling whip. A lungevwhip always feels so heavy and my hands are full,, and we end up all 9ver the place. I'm excited to learn more from this video. Oh I'm all the way from south Africa. Hope you and Matt come visit us some time. We have nice horses here too.

[@valeriestrojan2856]

A little bit of history about this horse may be helpful. I feel that this horse may have had been badly handled in the past. He is particularly nervous around the head area, observe his calmer behavior as the young man turned his back on the horse to walk away.. I see a very frightened horse. A little bit of advice providing he does not have a head injury is to use a head collar designed for lunging and a lunging reign to give him a sense of freedom. NEVER loose your patience . When he realises your not going to harm him you will win him round. Horses are like elephants they never forget !

[@lisamclain2549]

I have to say kudos to the owner for sharing this horse’s journey with us and to Jesse for agreeing to help this beautiful horse. It touches my heart to read the comments below and realize how many people care about this horse already, including myself. It is easy to forget how much kindness and goodness there is in the world but this story and everyone’s responses reminded me. Thank you very much for sharing it.

[@harrisoncryderman]

He is stunning. 😍

[@loryspencer8215]

This horse is beautiful but clearly stressed and frustrated. There is likely some holes in his training or possibly some harsh training from the past. He is still young. He is communicating that something is wrong. Is he allowed to frolic and play? Does he get any turn out? Any pasture /social time with horse friends? Your approach is likely just what he needs: Calm, gentle and soft, relaxed and listening to what he is trying to tell you. Bravo, too to his owner for not giving up! I look forward to following the progress!

[@friezenfan]

I bet champ gets to run around in a lovely field with friends all summer. But the Netherlands just doesn't have enough grassy meadows for horses to be turned out all year

[@clarkosteo]

I know he’s been checked by the vet but I would recommend seeing an ortho or osteo. He really looks like he has issues with his hind end and most vets don’t specialize in diagnosing this type of problem. I’m an osteopath and this does not look like strictly a behavioral problem. Best of luck to all. ❤

[@jenvonoepen9420]

Kudos to owner for keeping on trying. This guy may need a bigger pen and some playmates in his paddock. He was treating Jesse like a playmate, the banter between them during session was interesting to watch. I hope this beautiful horse finds his mental balance. Fun video

[@hhlagen]

The Hay Gain was interesting to see. I’m very glad I live where there is no snow. Electrolytes and salt works here. Wonderful job with the horse. Keep up the good work.

[@Melsi2003]

I loved this video. A few months ago a shetlandpony named Sofi moved home to me. She had lived in her previous home since she was one years old (now she is nine). With everything that is new to her she have had a hard time trusting people and she shows it by biting, kicking and rearing. Even if it already goes a lot better than when she first came to me, I think these videos really going to help me and give me tips on how I can work with Sofi.

[@seanmueller556]

His face when you scratch him on the neck!!!!!🤣 He is a beautiful horse.

[@morekare57]

Thank you. So nice to see someone using calm voice and cues and great deal of patience. Had he been given free time when coming from stall time BEFORE being asked to stand for grooming or arena work time? Youth requires free time to run, jump and express their feelings before having anything asked of them. You are doing a great job. Thank you for sharing.

[@diane9071]

I really loved the way that you presented us with the actual start of the meet and greet, and then went on to show us from the very beginning of you hands on methods, and how you worked through each and every situation with ease, poise and class, thankyou

[@ManuPlansAndWrites]

You have such a beautiful sensitivity towards him. I'm sure you'll help him be more aware and confident :)