October Discussion Post
Welcome to our very first monthly discussion! A “Question of the Month” will be posted on the 1st of every month. Your response (at least 250 words) is due in the portal by October 31st at 11:59 PM. In addition to your own response, you are also required to comment on at least one of your peers’ posts.
These discussions are meant to help you reflect, share ideas, and learn from one another. This month’s topic is: Set three goals for the year. One should be a short-term goal, one should be a long-term goal, and one should be a personal growth goal. Be specific and explain how you plan to work toward achieving it with your horse and within the Homes for Horses program.
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This year in the Homes for Horses program, I have set three goals that focus on both Prince's development and my own growth. My short-term goal is to learn how to correctly desensitize Prince to new experiences. I will be exposing him to different objects, environments, and challenges-such as tarps, flags, obstacles, and unfamiliar barns-all while paying close attention to his body language. In this way, Prince will grow braver and more adaptable, while I learn to be a patient, observant, and skilled handler. My long-term goal is to get Prince ready for being that sweet, gentle, well-mannered horse for the next family who adopts him. Throughout the year, I plan on practicing important skills with him, such as standing tied, picking up his feet, loading into a trailer, and responding softly to pressure. Essentially making him bomb proof. I will also reinforce good behavior and help him remain relaxed when he faces new situations. At the end of the program, I want Prince to be confident, kind, and ready to transition into a loving home. My personal goal is to create a strong and trusting bond with Prince. This I plan to achieve by consistent work with him through grooming, groundwork, hand-walking, and simple leading exercises. Through staying calm, patient, and predictable, I want him to learn that he can trust me and feel safe during every interaction. This, in turn, will make all his training go more smoothly and meaningfully. In these ways, I hope to have a positive effect on Prince's future and my confidence in what I am doing.