The Great Horse Migration: A Tale of Tails, Trails, and (Almost) Tears

New Farm

Picture this: It’s the crack of dawn, a rooster is crowing in the distance, and I’m standing in front of my herd, my trusty truck and trailer ready. No, I’m not about to embark on a Wild West adventure. Instead, I’m preparing for something more daunting – moving my horses to a new farm. Yes, folks, buckle up because this tale is filled with everything from mischievous geldings to board-bashing mares.

As soon as the day broke, it was showtime. We had the trailers ready, the stalls cleaned, and a pocket full of horse treats. But in my heart, I knew this would be a day to remember.

We started by loading Gunner and Agadore, the calmest of the lot. Or so we thought. As soon as they unloaded the trailer, one decided to take a detour and ended up in the chicken coop, sending feathers flying everywhere. Who knew Agadore had a secret ambition to be a chicken herder?

Next came The Duke, who lived up to his name and stormed into the trailer like a lightning bolt. Once we arrived at the new farm, he decided he didn’t like his assigned stall. Instead, she chose the one next to the feed room. Smart move, Duke.

Now, let me tell you about Katie. Sweet Katie, That mare has a sense of humor. She decided the best way to christen her new home was by pulling out the freshly installed boards in her stall. She gave me a cheeky wink as I stood there, mouth agape, holding a stall board between her front legs.

But amidst all the chaos, there were moments of pure joy. Like watching Agadore and Gunner’s eyes light up at the sight of a banana treat in their new stalls. Or listening to Duke call out to every “we are here.” And even Katie’s board-pulling shenanigans had us all in stitches.

So, what’s the moral of this story, you ask? Well, when it comes to moving horses, expect the unexpected. Pack your patience, keep your sense of humor handy, and remember – no matter how many boards get pulled or chickens get chased, at the end of the day, it’s all about helping our four-legged friends settle into their new home.

So, here’s to new beginnings, a few more gray hairs, and the joy of sharing this journey with a bunch of hoofed comedians. As for the next move? Let’s say I’ll be ready with extra boards, a chicken-proof plan, and maybe a map for Agadore.

Til next time, my happy horse friends.

Kelley

Kelley Bitter is the owner of Buckeye Performance Horse Center and The Winning Edge Mental Performance Coaching in North East Ohio. A second- generation horsewoman. Kelley began riding and showing at 4 years old. In her teens, she started riding Arabians in various discipline and won several Regional and USEF titles over the last 50 years. Kelley started riding Western Dressage in 2016. In 2018 Kelley attended the WDAA Train the Trainer program. She has won several titles including placing two of her Arabians in the WDAA World show in 2020 top 15. At the WDAA International Challenge 2021, she placed with her Quarter Horse, Arabians and her student received top ten in the Gaited Division and Horsemanship. Kelley currently runs The Western Dressage Academy. Kelley also holds certifications as a Mental Performance Coach, Equine Massage Therapy, Equine Laser Therapy, and Equine Nutrition. Kelley has also completed the WDAA Judges training and is currently working on her “r” status.

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