Training A Roman Belgian Draft Rescue

[@debbiecarpenter3454]

I just love to watch you with Rita & Roman. Lester you have come so far. I remember when you weren't so close with horses. I Love you Rita 🩷💜 I Love you Roman 💙🩵 Love them together 👍 - Rita Lester you are doing good 🥰

[@freespirit54321]

I like the fact that you're taking your time with Roman and you're gentle. That's what he needs right now. The conversation you have to have with yourself needs to be "we're gonna get there; no rush!"

[@ClaireWallace2304]

I’m definitely not the person to ask but I was just thinking it may help Roman to watch you put Rita’s halter on a lot since she doesn’t seem to mind it. He’ll maybe eventually see that it’s never hurting Rita so it will never hurt him. You’re so patient Lester and it will happen even if it takes some time ❤

[@vickibwarren9722]

​@@ClaireWallace2304good advice I was thinking the same thing that he needs to watch Rita again and again have her halter put on her and laid around and that she likes it!

[@angelaknoll5187]

It wasn’t a failure it’s a process and I think your patience is wonderful ❤

[@FLMegan]

Agreed- I didn't see any failures.

[@rickibelden986]

Not a fail at all . Roman is getting better each day . He is comfortable enough to come right up to you . That's is until he see's the rope. Just like most horses. ❤ love you all

[@lindaengram3324]

Lester, I'm so proud of you! You're doing great. Remember: Rome wasn't built in a day. And as for Rita, you and her have that special bond that doesn't come around very often. Take it from a horse person who knows body language. She loves you dearly. I can't believe how calm she is around you. I'll bet she doesn't behave that good with other people. Before you try to put the rope around Roman's neck, first just pet and love on him. Then just show him the rope. Let him nibble and examine it. Then slowly start touching it to his skin. Rub him with it next. When you do get it over his neck, pull it off again. He is very suspicious of it, understandably. You can also tie it up on the gate with the halter for awhile, so it becomes part of his surroundings and smells. Your patience is great and you will eventually get about anything you want with Roman and Rita. Love ya'all and keep up all your great work.

[@annalundquist8821]

Good work Lester. You asked for opinions and tips, so I will give my two pennies worth, if that’s ok! 😊❤ Just being around him with that rope and halter is a good start. Baby steps. Let him smell it a couple of times, but don’t try to put it on. Just let him smell it, praise him for that. Give him a muffin AFTER he smell it. Do that for a few days. Then touch him with it, give a muffin and so on. I believe that the steps need to be a lot smaller than trying to put that halter on at the same time you put a rope around his neck. Have the halter and rope with you when you feed, without making anything of them being there. Just as silent, unthreatening sidenotes that he can learn to ignore. Get him to be used to them gradually, and then take it very slowly forward. I also think, when you decide to make a step forward and escalate the training, do that gently but still firmly, so he doesn’t get mixed signals. He can feel you being hesitant and nervous, and that may confuse him. To start with Rita getting haltered and then let loose, shortly after, like you did today is a great thing for him to see. You are doing really great with him already, and everyone can see how much he loves you and wants to trust you! ❤❤❤ So don’t let this put you down, because this was NOT a failure, it was a perfect training session for him! the ONLY thing that went “wrong” here is that he probably picked up on your disappointment/frustration and didn’t really understand why, but that is a MINOR thing. My humble suggestion is that next time, you set this kind of low-expectations session as the main goal, and praise both him and yourself for the progress. Small steps forward is ten times better than one big step forward followed by a giant step backwards. ❤❤❤ you are both doing great! 👍 I hope you take these thought of mine with all the love and support they were given! I really admire both you and Jami for your big hearts and dedication you have for these precious souls! I love Roman, he really is a gentle giant and deserves his rest, pets, love, fun and of course, those muffins! Thanks for letting us tag along! Blessed be! ❤❤❤❤

[@misheldeniz32]

I couldn't have said it better myself..baby steps. The idea is to let Roman know it won't hurt him Getting the rope around Roman's neck is not the goal as much as he need to know they won't hurt him. It could take awhile building true trust will take some time.

[@nancarpowits6011]

Don't get frustrated Lester. You're doing great. Give it time. Poor thing. Looks like he is so untrusting. God only knows what he was made to endure.❤

[@deethompson2854]

It is amazing how, after being abused by the Amish man, Roman still finds some love and trust ❤❤❤❤

[@bkicklin]

Also, to teach him to put his head lower for you to reach, when giving him treats, hand him the treats down lower, so he has to put his head down to get the treat. Also, remember, praise, praise praise, what a good boy for every tiny little thing he does that you want him to do.

[@cherylgrinke8568]

Sending Roman and Rita lots of love! You were great today . Please don’t consider today a fail…you were so kind your voice was great!! ❤😊

[@libertyfreeman8044]

Wàtching a replay w Roman & Rita. It's 10: 40 pm & watched you cooking beans earlier. You are a man for all seasons. ❤

[@jantutton8857]

You re doing fine lester. It will just take time. He loves you. So so sad how much trauma he has had in his past life

[@juliasilvrants9556]

Roman needs patience and you can do it. Look what you accomplished with Rita

[@dawnpettet5280]

All he has ever known was a yolk and hard work and pain bless him. He knows he is loved. He already takes your muffins. He needs time and patience. ❤

[@EarleneHudgins-ue2ri]

If at first you don’t succeed try and try again . Rome wasn’t built in day . Don’t give up Lester❤

[@caseywoodbury3412]

Lester, you did very well. Roman loves you and wants to trust you. This was a beautiful start and I’m proud of you. You remained calm, spoke softly, and accepted his fear with kindness. This will pay off for you in a big way. His fear is not your fault, but his healing WILL BE your success.

[@territrombley8273]

Lester, it will happen. All in good time. Roman has trauma deeper than anyone even knows. You’re doing so wonderful with both of them! 😘😘😘❤️

[@elynedyoung7206]

Poor Roman. It’s so hard to see the fear in such a huge, gentle giant. Sending him lots of hugs and love.

[@cherryT55555]

Not a failure, In Fact you showed Roman that it’s safe and maybe after a few times and patience he will come around. You’re doing such a wonderful job on them Lester. You are a teacher after all❤

[@barbarachiaramonte8852]

Leaps and bounds Lester!! You should be so proud! I am so proud of you You will get there with Roman. Don't forget how difficult and scary Rita once was..... you'll get there ❤

[@margalena0828]

Lester, I don’t think that was a fail AT ALL! You don’t expect him to jump (when you say jump) right away. You were very calm, gentle and patient with him. Baby steps. I think it was a great start! Yay!

[@pattiegeisert8623]

Rita is getting very good, she's so pretty.🤎❤❤🖤

[@tracim2472]

I don’t know if someone already suggested this. But with my horse, I had to drape the lead ropes around my neck and he would come right up to me. If it was in my hand he wouldn’t get to close.

[@erinc5104]

Training 1 wasn’t a fail, you have to start somewhere, he will come along sooner or later. He is lucky he has such a sweet daddy to help him. Great job!

[@cbhendri]

Lester I am So Proud of You, for many of your accomplishments but none so great than your work with Rita and Roman. You have conquered so many of your fears and are doing a GREAT JOB with these two. I don't comment much, but usually watch 2-3 of your "episodes" a day. I look forward to them, esp the ones featuring the beautiful evolving Rita and the Magnificent Roman. Keep it up!!!

[@diannmajeske1669]

I think it’s wonderful. You have so much patience with Roman and understand that he has a lot of trauma from his earlier life experiences and Rita seems to have settled down so much and you can see that Roman and Rita really do care for you a lot. I enjoy your videos so much thank you for sharing.

[@gailfraser5353]

Roman will need a ton of patience I imagine (as you do I’m sure). Teeny tiny baby steps. I’m feeling optimistic!! Go Lester!! You got this.

[@maryanntulloch9196]

Christmas isn't a dog, she's a ninja!🥷🏻🐾 Every time I see Rita beside Roman I can't believe how tiny she looks. That must be deep seated trauma that Roman has. Poor boy. Keep trying Lester. That's all I can say. This is going to be a very long process. 🇨🇦❤️🙋🏼‍♀️🇨🇦

[@eilemoo3272]

Lester Baby Steps - maybe just brush Roman or rub him with the rolled up rope so he gets to know its not going to Hurt him- keep trying - maybe when hes in the Red Barn he cant run to far. Rita & Roman are learning from Each other.🐴🐎💕

[@Jennifer-qd9fk]

I think Roman loves, trusts and respects you. He just doesn't trust what the memories have done to him. He has PTSD and those feelings can be very strong and hard to overcome. Another person had a great suggestion to always have the lead rope with you when you feed up or give treats - just always around. Maybe lay it beside his feed bowl wheile he eats. You have the patience of Job and the biggest heart which is what he needs most! ❤

[@debbienok]

The RV patio looks so good. Great job Lester.

[@terimarple4575]

You’re doing great Lester. Your patience will win the race.❤

[@rebeccacoatney6934]

Lester your not failing poor Romans been through a lot. Be patient with him.❤

[@lillianblair6071]

Good evening Lester. He trusts you a bit but will need to do it quietly and patiently with him as he gets really scared when you move too fast or your arms. I wouldn't give him a treat until he actually does something correctly. You giving him muffins when he doesn't listen you are teaching him he can get them at any time instead of the right time. Especially for this training. You will get there just will take time. Do something with him everyday, sitting quietly with him, having him follow w/o giving treats and left him sniff, touch with his nose and face for he can see that it won't hurt him. Good luck. Love the Rita and Roman show.

[@marilynhunter-k7s]

Lester what’s not to love about sweet Rita? She’s beautiful and smart and full of life. Roman will get there in baby steps. He’s a big love bug. You’re doing fine, Lester. Hang in there.❤❤

[@pambrock4957]

Rita’s being such a good girl!!👍🏼💕💕💕

[@ruthanderson1758]

I'm laughing at Christmas - she's hilarious. Amazing to see how much the wild child Rita has calmed down - she let you put that halter on her so easily. Who'd have ever thought that Rita would be a good example. Rita's doing a great job. It seems that Roman is enjoying being a halter-free guy and he's say, "hell no" to that thing. You may want to contact Kourtney about the halter thing, or Rick.

[@22leighanna]

Great job Rita you're doing so great!! Very proud of Rita 🎉🎉🎉❤❤❤

[@larryvillars1340]

Lester you get a 👍🏻 for Rita!!

[@renebates8090]

I feel bad for Roman and you too. You have a horse that is terrified of anything that brings back those days of hardship. And a man that wants this big fella to be his friend and let the man handle him kindly, it breaks my heart for you and Roman. Trial and patience and time....❤ U Lester and friends 😊❤😊❤

[@kathywifall6844]

FYI, no treats until his acceptance when the lead is on and then after the halter is on. That is to allow them to accept what you need to and it works as praise that they did a good job, and can enjoy the treat. Will take time, and your patience is what will get Sir Roman to learn Dad is not harming him. He is getting treats when he does not do anything, and that reinforces he will always get treats with no work shown.

[@Scarlet-Bonez]

Lester, It's not a fail. It's a start of a beginning. Maybe start to walk Rita around the pasture with the halter on.

[@SharonArnold-p5e]

Oh! Lester you know you won't stay mad at Christmas

[@ritahubschen6426]

Some animals can be a nuisance especially when you're trying to be around horses. It's best they're not around so no one gets hurt 🫤

[@samculp6452]

All in time. I think all is going absolutely fabulous with both of these beautiful souls. For them, you and us 🙏✨️🫶✌️

[@BarnMouse]

Roman also is testing you. He learned that he can get away with some things and still get his way. Try NO MUFFINS unless you get some thing from him. Like if he follows you, backs up, or puts his head down so you can scratch his forehead. That forelock has got to be itchy. Usually, horses love being scratched on their face. He is probably going to sensitive about the top of his head and those cute fuzzy ears. but Rita did great! She can be a role model. You never make her do any 'work'. They are a bit competitive. She is doing very well. She clings to you for more than treats. She respects, loves and admires you.

[@angelaknoll5187]

Seems like Roman is smart enough to understand if he doesn’t put on the halter he doesn’t get to follow you and Rita.

[@ritahubschen6426]

Roman was standing there the whole time, waiting for something to happen why didn't he just walk up to him and put it on him. It's those treats that get in the way of everything they shouldn't be eating treats when you're haltering them or trying to make them walk .I just don't understand

[@debbiec4530]

The camera did follow you. It just took a second. You are very patient with Roman and it’s good. Look how far you have come with Rita. The fast way is the wrong way ( per Rick ). Take it slow. Take it slow. 🤠💕🐴

[@slash2487]

Love Roman, he's a good boy and will learn to trust you in time. His training will be fun to watch❤❤❤

[@SherryHolder-g7e]

Never a failure takes time with Roman Rita is a sweet girl 👍❤

[@kristimcswain4439]

Awww sweet Roman….PTSD…..that’s why training may be difficult with Roman…It breaks my heart. Like Kourtney said, we are learning his story….That pressure from the halter or lead brings back memories of the pain of plowing fields and pulling buggies while being whipped…..I don’t know what the answer is, Roman has deep seated trauma that lasted for years and years….You may never be able to rid that trauma. I do know time is what the big guy needs right now…💔💔💔😢

[@shurst1806]

I think Courtney could give you some great tips on how to teach Roman. She is really good at reading horses and giving steps on how to do things you may not know how to. She's great with the horses. Worth a try❤❤❤❤❤

[@SuperPamela1010]

Just thinking about it look how far you have gotten with Rita. It will happen.❤

[@northeternal5227]

I love Stella!❤ I look at her and her beautiful face and her ears. She is such a warrior.

[@paulaemler9005]

Good goal. Be patient. No raised voice in frustration. He is tender hearted. Those are my suggestions.

[@13juju]

I was going to say the same thing

[@traceylynn1710]

Always impressed by your patience with the babies.❤

[@kathysmith266]

Good job, Rita. Roman, I think you tried, so continue to do your best. Daddy Lester is not going to hurt you.

[@RebeccaCharette-h2d]

I just started watching and I'm loving watching you work with sweet Roman. Teaching a horse to lower his head is so important in my eyes. I have a very reactive mustang who was so very headshy when I first got him. He was hard to catch and would explode if you tried touching his poor ears. My boy had so much trauma before I got him. Long story short, after he was caught in the wild and had done about two years' worth of training, he was sold to someone who was absolutely horrendous to him. He had wolf teeth, and instead of anesthetizing him They decided to rope his head to the ground and ripping his teeth out. He was beaten, and treated in the old "cowboy way." Basically, he reverted back to being wild and so untrusting with having his head handled. He went back to the ranch, who originally caught and trained him, and it took a lot of work to help my boy. When I got him, Arrow would do anything I asked of him. Except for being caught and having his head handled. And he was so reactive still, but my goodness, my noy had so much heart. He so wanted to do the right thing, and he so loves to learn. I taught Arrow to lower his head so Incould work with his ears, help him to relax ( A low head for a horse is a relaxed horse, and when Arrow gets worried and his head starts to go up, i just softly say "Head" and lut put slight pressure on the halter until he lowers his head. The second he lowers his head, I release pressure. I do the same with handling his ears, i give him the "head" command, and when his head is lowered, I start massageing bu his shoulder and work my way towards his ears. The second his head comes up, i give him the command again, but make sure and keep my hand on him where he feels most uncomfortable until he relaxes. The second he relaxes, i move my hand and step back, releasing all pressure. He's come such a long way since i brought him home. I could'nt be more proud of my amazing wild boy. It took a lot of work, but the other day, he lowered his head and put his sweet face straight into the halter. I broke down and bawled. It was honestly one of the proudest moments I've ever had with both my boys. I'm choked up just writing about it. You've got this, Lester. God Roman and Rita are so lucky to have you ❤

[@christine-666]

Roman is like look buddy...I been on a lead for 20yrs ...I'm free nowwwww

[@trishb45]

Roman has worked a lifetime ❤️

[@jenniferwentland1736]

Can I make a suggestion on how to keep the girls inside when you need them to, teach them a word that they can associate with staying inside. We taught ours “HOUSE”, and say it firmly. In fact just earlier today mine broke out as I drove up the driveway. I rolled my window down, yelled out HOUSE, and they ran back inside. Just an idea for y’all to help when you need the girls to stay in the RV.😊❤

[@bjc8248]

Exactly. One word and only that word. Stay or house. Lester is unable to just say one word at a time. (lol) Please stop psychoanalyzing your animals...

[@CathyMiller0711]

@@bjc8248 LOL, Lester never says anything shorter than a full paragraph to the animals as if they understand that word salad! Of course, he does repeat things at least twice in his teacher mode, not that that helps the animals. Heehee.

[@janiceday7495]

I agree with this. I use IN and OUT for my Spaniel and he knows exactly what I want and what’s expected. The only time I have any difficulty with him is when the dog walker comes and then he forgets everything he knows 😂

[@bjc8248]

@@CathyMiller0711 mass confusion. The man likes to talk and talk and talk..or sing.

[@keeshabrooks1]

Lester so proud of you. You really try to spend time and train Roman and Rita...Even if it's a fail, You still tried...😅 You're doing good with ROMITA 💕💕

[@kaseyrigsby-ferree4038]

Sweet baby! Patience is key. Roman loves you so much!!! His trauma will take time to resolve!!

[@trishb45]

He seems so afraid.. hurts my heart. He’s so handsome. Love our Roman. 💕

[@ritahubschen6426]

He doesn't seem afraid at all he's just standing there, they want to be shown what to do and if you're just feeding snacks all the time they think that's all there is for them to do eat. I get a little frustrated watching these it's okay. I'm sure he's had halters on him all the time and it's only spooked by lead ropes. They're not going to walk up to you to put halters on you have to walk up to them put it on.

[@jaimies6259]

Lester maybe next time Courtney comes she can spend some time teaching you on your approach with Roman

[@donnacaulfield2762]

I choose to see the positive, he did not break away abruptly. Just keep trying ❤

[@joys4524]

Rita has come so far. Kudos!

[@angelaknoll5187]

My husband is the same with our kids, he hates saying no unless it’s about money 😂

[@kendall9339]

Another way to get him to lower his head would be to put light pressure on his poll between his ears or slightly behind while petting him, once he lowers release the pressure and then reward him. It can help with haltering. Consistency is key. It’s Just another idea 💜 Huge fans of Rita and Roman

[@trudiharmon7640]

Evening Lester it wasn’t failure Lester it’s little steps he’s had a lifetime to build this fear so it’s going to be very hard to open those cracks. The muffins was a huge break through. Thanks for sharing take care lots of love God bless 💕🙏🤠

[@shargomol3572]

Roman has already learned that he will get muffins whether he does what you ask or not. They both know that you walk up to them with your hand out. Try and stop so many treats. They are supposed to be a reward.

[@northeternal5227]

👍👍❤️❤️ it will take patience, you are doing fine Lester.

[@kellyschroeder7437]

Oh Roman. He has such a great fear about being “tied” 💙🐴🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻💙💞

[@gailfraser5353]

OMG!! That was not unsuccessful. Do not be disappointed day one. Building trust. Sending my prayers.

[@wendytatum5863]

Daddy!! You think I'm stupid! I know you're tricking me with that muffin to do something, no way muffin man. 🤗🤗🤗 love them all,❤️

[@maryanngee2698]

Don't give up Lester pleas your doing fine keep trying every day your doing great !

[@tinaburns1666]

Your doing great you didn't fail it takes time especially after what he's been through maybe Dont give the treats untill after you catch him try a smaller space like the red barn without Rita in there stand on something on the outside of gate so you are higher easier to put that rope over without alot of movement and when he comes for the treats try to put the rope over him and dont give it untill you get that rope over him he will learn even if he doesn't get a muffin that day they are smart good luck stay safe ❤ he will learn

[@pixie6133]

There was more good than you thought at the time. Both of them are helping each other. Awesome! Keep doing what you did...

[@catrivett1964]

Never a failure just learning what works and what doesn't.

[@kellyschroeder7437]

He knows your up to something 🤪💙🐴💞🐴🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻💙

[@MichelleBralley]

Absolutely love Rita!! She is definitely making wonderful progress! She is beautiful❤

[@StephanieGriffith19]

You’re doing awesome Lester! I would do the exact same thing every day. Patience is key and you have that!! ❤

[@ltdesigns2]

👏👏👏Lester,I am so proud of you ‼️❤️🐎🐎🐎 You are so patient and I have faith in you❗️‼️🐎❗️❤️👌🥰You can do this in baby steps with Roman‼️🐎❤️❤️❤️🇺🇸😇❤️

[@user-qe6mm1il4u]

The RV area looks really nice!! Don't know why, nervous for you! Don't want you to get dragged like Ariel! It was a first step, in your earlier video you talked about consistency. His past definitely has left an impression on him. Feel you will get there. Rita really is a good girl.

[@user-qe6mm1il4u]

Very proud of you Lester!!!

[@amistockellburg8121]

Roman doesn't trust you although he does love you. His ears show he is extremely uncertain. Don' let your voice sound anything but happy because he can hear & sense that too. When you work with Roman, make sure you are alone with him. If you're talking to Rita, Roman doesn't know if you're talking to him or the man in the moon. You can't expect him to get it on the first try. I have ridden since I was 10, and I am empathic- highly so with animals.❤😊

[@kathymarcum4698]

I don't think that you should consider this a failure, keep going slowly with him, and that's what's he needs right now. Like you said, he's been haltered twice, and that's a win! Give him and yourself time, and remember that you haven't had him all that long. Just keep trying every day to get him used to you doing this. I think you're doing a great job!!! 🎉 Happy Training ❤

[@ashleymariebernard1249]

Lester, you need to ask Rick for help ❤ You're doing a wonderful job, your confidence around the horses has improved a lot! 👏 👏

[@patbowton6806]

Love both Roman and Rita!!

[@MichelleBralley]

Lester you do very well!! So patient😊 Love seeing all your babies❤

[@MichelleBralley]

Truly I enjoy seeing you around your animals! Jami as well❤ The two of you do a wonderful job.

[@anncairns1099]

We love you Rita and Roman 🫂😊👍💗

[@catrivett1964]

Training also means familiarize him with the equipment. He may need to just see the equipment around his pasture. Good luck, he is learning to trust you, and Rita is showing him that you are trust worthy.

[@robinblankenship117]

You really did a great job on your cement cleaning. J&L=❤

[@patriciabrandenburg7207]

I think you did a great job today with Roman. Like other have mentioned you need to wear the lead around your neck and have Roman see that it’s no threat to him. Make him come to you. If he completes a task give him a treat. Once he establishes the association that the halter and lead won’t hurt him then move on to trying to put around his neck. Only give treats as a positive reinforcement. It’s going to take baby steps to get him to do what you want. Just remember no treats until he completes what you’re asking him to do.

[@rososborne3995]

Lester do not stare him down by making eye contact, and just approach with a confident determination as if you've done this a thousand times. Look at his feet not eyes, you are in charge, so smile and happy so your heart rate is also relaxed. Horses move each other by looks and body language. You can do this Lester belief in yourself will give him confidence in you ❤.

[@marlowatts5295]

Oh, Christmas loves to be with you. She promises to do better!

[@mouse92672]

Aww, bless him. Roman says ' No thank you" to the rope and halter. Honestly,I just think he equates men and halters with work and abuse. It's going to take a while, I feel.❤

[@memecats5698]

You tell Roman over and over you don’t get muffins for nothing as you’re feeding him muffins. Lol

[@vanessamarie1582]

Lester I don't know if it's been mentioned yet (that I've caught) but thank you for adding the location and the date right up front in the video. I feel like folks will find that helpful. Just wanted to give you that feedback. Ok, off I go to watch the rest of the video!

[@daniellehoward7064]

Rita is SO AWESOME ❤😊

[@Jai-Leigh2]

I think that u done fantastic with him .The more you do it, the more comfortable he will get with it. Love how patient u are with them both xxxx