Meet Rex! This handsome 16 year old, 15.2 hand Missouri Fox Trotter gelding comes to us through NEER North. Rex was adopted out several years ago through the NHSPCA, and was reported to be green under saddle but a real sweetheart to handle and work around. Due to unforeseen circumstances, Rex recently needed a soft spot to land and with the NHSPCA barn currently under construction, he was put under the umbrella of NEER North. It’s always wonderful to see rescues working together to ensure that no horse falls through the cracks, and we are happy to be a part of that process.
We have begun evaluating Rex, and have found that while he is very responsive and relaxed much of the time, he has a tendency to ‘leave the scene’ when something startles him. If this happens in hand we imagine it could pop up under saddle as well, and so we’re going back to the groundwork basics to help Rex work through those moments in a more thoughtful way. By helping him move his body around through groundwork, we can teach him how to stay engaged with his rider or handler instead of mentally and physically leaving.
After a lot of time and patience, we were finally able to climb aboard. Rex actually seems to be mentally more focused when being ridden compared to on the ground. He can still get tight and want to rush off, but we are working on lots of softening to break that pattern. Rex is quite unique with his different gaits, but with time we think he will be an extremely fun and comfortable mount for someone!
Rex is a super sweet, friendly horse who can just get a little fearful at times. We are really excited to keep working with this handsome boy, and will be sure to post updates on his progress!
UPDATE: Rex has been adopted! He will be heading down to MA where he will enjoy the good life as a pleasure riding horse and family companion. We are really excited for Rex and his new mom Wendy, and we wish them many happy years together.
