2005 Mustang cross mare
Vixen arrived for training in July 2018. This lovely 13-year old, 15hh bay mare is owned by All The Kings Horses Equine Rescue of Connecticut. Several years ago we helped to adopt out another ATHKER horse Jake, and we look forward to working together once again.
When Vixen arrived at the rescue last year, she was still with her mother and both were completely unhandled. Vixen had spent her entire life on the same property and had never had her feet done, been vaccinated, haltered or groomed, and had never even seen other horses or people until she arrived at ATHKER as a 13-year old. Initially, Vixen was extremely fearful and very possessive of her mother, but once they were separated Vixen turned into a completely different horse. The rescue’s resident volunteer and trainer began working with her, and over the course of several months was able to get her halter trained and accustomed to some of the necessary basics like leading, lungeing, standing on cross ties, and getting her feet done. She has been saddled, but not yet ridden.
As always, we began at the beginning with Vixen, as it took her extra time to settle in to her new surroundings. Vixen can be sensitive or reactive to new things, but once she understands a concept she becomes very relaxed and confident. Initially, Vixen had a lot of stiffness throughout her body and we have been working to introduce softening and bending as she moves. Currently, Vixen is walk/trot under saddle, and we have started to work on her canter as well. We have also start to introduce trail rides around the property and so far she has been very steady and relaxed. She lunges, ties, bathes, and stands well for vet and farrier. This is a smart, confident, athletic mare with lovely gaits and lots of potential. She could go in any direction with continued training, and is ready for an experienced rider to finish their way.
