Wednesday 12 May 2010

Bertie Update.

Bertie is a complete sweetheart. When I lost my old pony, Ben, I never thought I'd find another pony as sweet natured and kind as he was. Despite having been very nervous when I bought him he grew to love everyone and was such a happy pony. Bertie reminds me more and more of him and I can't look at him without smiling. He has the kindest eye I've ever seen and wouldn't hurt a fly.

He was very nervous and difficult to catch but he's first at the gate now and pushes his nose into the headcollar. I could have got to this stage without clicker training but it's taken days instead of months using it and Bertie has already decided he likes being with me because he has fun and gets to use his brain.

He is a beautiful, kind, co-operative pony and I am very lucky to have him. At just 6yo he has his whole life in front of him and I paid £400 pounds for him.

David would have loved him as much as he did Ben. I wish he could have met him.

When the strangles is over I must find homes for Kate and Crystal as they are wasted with me. Next year at the latest I need to find homes for the three young Fells, who will then be 3yos, but I don't think I could bear to part with Bertie. Russell is in his twenties and retired now so five horses, only four of which need work, isn't too many, is it?

Please tell me what you think.



Here he is learning to be a family pony, tied to the washing line post and chilling out next to the pigs.

4 comments:

  1. Only you know the right number of horses - do you feel they are each getting the best from you or is a smaller number better so you can concentrate?

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  2. I think you did the right thing. If you had not taken them, you would have regretted it for the rest of your life and that would not be easy to deal with at all. Bertie looks a darling and how about some photos of the others--before and after? You will be fine, Helen. Seriously, you will. It all takes time and patience. Like with Bertie.

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  3. Thank you so much, both of you.

    You were right phaedra - time and patience.

    I will update this soon. The only trouble is I've changed his name to Merlin as Bertie never suited him!!!

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  4. Oh I love the name Merlin over Bertie! I think he's a beautiful pony and I think you should keep him, but like everyone else said that's up to you. I hope you will start updating Merlin's blog again. I know how difficult it is writing in several different blogs but I sure do love hearing about him. At least an update every once in a while. :)

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