From trainer Beth Stahlecker:
I don't know why I'm surprised the summer flew by. They always do! I wish I had more time, as usual as well. But maybe it feels like that because it took so long to get anywhere meaningful with Twister. I belive I have about the same amount of time after he got a halter on as before. So, on the days I'm frustrated with him expressing his "no", I have to remind myself we've really only been "working" on skills for weeks, not even months. And his "no" is to get back to friends or to keep eating grass or tell me he'd rather not go that way.
Here's the short essay answer for who Twister is and his skill set:
Twister is solidly halter broke, though he doesn't have a lot of experience being tied hard. He's had his front feet trimmed and back feet picked out several times. He is a "I'm going to walk off or around" kind of horse if he is bored or doesn't want to do something, but I suspect there may be some bolt in him when he's started under saddle. That being said, there is not a mean bone in this horse and he has never even threatened to kick or buck, even with ropes around his legs. He has attempted and somewhat successfully jumped out of the round pen, and looks to go over panels when uncomfortable. So far he has used better judgment... He knows when I put the treat pouch on that it's time to train and will be looking for the reward. He is very respectful with treats, had a bit of mouthyness but I stopped treating for a few days and that went away. Make him wait calm and respectfully for the treat and he will be really good.
Twister is very nonchalant, as the kids say. Takes all things in stride, wants to do the right thing, looks to me for confidence, and is willing and calm. He gets concerned or nervous but never terrified and can settle down. However, I'm not sure how well he will do in a new and possibly overwhelming environment.
Twister is a safe horse, but will do well with an experienced horseperson or continue training with a trainer. He just needs more skills, time, and exposure. That being said, I think he'd be a great first mustang. He doesn't have any quirks, and all of the things he needs more work on is to be expected! Well, let me rephrase that I attempted to sedate him with oral sedation and got a very big "no" to the tube in his mouth. That is not something I have had time to work on, but is very important to me that he is not manhandled for that. I wormed him just fine (I caught him off guard I think!) So I'm sure he'll come around. He is okay with me touching his mouth and with my fingers in there to open it.
Apply to adopt Twister! You won't regret it! Contact me with questions please!
