George had his first trip off the SAFE property since his rescue in 2019, as one of five SAFE horses who traveled to Ellensburg for the Buck Brannaman clinic in early July. Buck’s Foundations class is a great experience for a young horse like George, and we’re extremely happy that he was given this opportunity.
George did well on the trailer ride and settled into his paddock at clinic with minimal calling to the other SAFE horses. By the third day of the clinic, he was acting less herd bound than on arrival. Terry worked with George to create more engagement with the hind while backing up, keeping his head down and getting into a smooth 2‑beat backing rhythm. They also did a lot of work getting a steadier rhythm with all four feet reaching equally on hind quarter and front quarter transitions, something George is not yet an expert at, but is steadily improving. On the last day of the class, Terry rode George in the arena with 28 other horses. It was a good opportunity for George to practice staying connected to his rider with lots of potential distractions. George is impressing all of us with his easy-going nature under saddle, and he should be ready to find a new home very soon!
