Mucking

For those of us who muckout on a daily basis you can relate to this cartoon, I always say "I literally  shovel shit on a daily bases".  But all joking aside my morning chores are the favorite part of the day.   It is my time the horse(s), to care for them, it builds on their respect for me on the ground and in their space, I know their routine and personality and if there is a change I sense it immediately (if they haven't pooped enough during the night, their stall is messier than usual, they are resting their leg differently, eye issues etc) and it allows you time to look over your horses body for any bumps or cuts they may have received through the night.  The routine of the barn is a comfort to the horse and the relationship I develop with the horses by not just being the trainer but the handler as well is priceless. 

When horses come in for training that is generally pastured their owners are often concerned about their horses being stabled and are relieved to find that their concern were not necessary, as the horses always settle into the routine nicely.  All of the horses at MEC love their pasture time but they are always willing to come back to their stables. 

 There is no better feeling when the stalls are clean and the barn is organized.  

So to my fellow shovelers Good Luck!