Our Hans Solo - adventurer and joker

Solo joined us with no name - he didn't make it to training as he's not quite sound in his wind, so can't do long gallops. 

Not a major problem around here - I can't either! :) 

Taking a horse that's been trained for the racecourse into a horse that is good in counselling is a fairly long and drawn out process. 

They are normally used to being handled by lots of people, so that's a good thing, but they haven't got the security of knowing that this is "home" and they are safe here and can drop the guard and relax. 

To be a good co-counsellor, they have to relax and be open to emotions of others and to know when to interact and how to interact - and, well, he's a big of a gallumph at 17hh and is only just learning where he starts and ends ... so it's been a bit of learning and, thankfully, the mares have helped a lot with that - he's their mutual "baby" so they have been telling him, with love and care, who he is and where he starts and stops - and no, that doesn't include using them as test walls! 

He's a total dolt and loves the world and is enthusiastic about everything in it - and curious as to whatever he comes into contact with - he's just starting his life as a counselling horse, but is already a bit of a favourite with those clients who are used to horses - he's not really been "let loose" on those who aren't as he can still be a little bit in your pocket and overly curious - not so bad if he were 7hh but 17hh a bit daunting! 

I didn't get to meet him before buying him and there were questions asked about whether or not he'd be suitable - but after a few months, those are going straight out of the mind - he's made himself right at home and he's made himself lovely to work with - and I look forward to his future here weaving healing into people's hearts and reminding them to tap into their emotions and fun side.