Post by Erik Kightlinger on Feb 22, 2016 23:24:55 GMT -8
SHADOW
Registered Name>>Four Hoof Drive
Barn Name>>Shadow
Age>>Seven Years
Sex>>Male (Gelding)
Breed>>Percheron
Breed Registry>>Percheron Horse Association of America
Coat Colour>>Black
Stable Colour>>Black & Green
Height>>18 Hands
Personality>> Shadow is Erik's best bud, his "Weird Lookin' Dog Thing", and often partner in crime. He is proud, alert, intelligent and a willing worker. Shadow has acquired some amusing habits such as stealing baseball caps and cowboy hats to play keep-away, drinking any open bottle of Coca-Cola he can reach, and occasionally letting himself out of his stall if it isn't double secured to go for a tour of the facilities. The horse will nod and shake his head on a non-verbal cue, allowing his owner to pretend to have interactive conversations, will nuzzle an admirer with his forehead and then lift them if they lean into him (just a little toss, a foot or two), but is gentle as a lamb (and has been taught to come to an instant and complete halt if his rider falls off). He is suspicious of anyone trying to hide their intentions from him, such as holding a lead rope behind yourself and approaching with the promise of food. If a person thinks that's necessary they must want something he won't care for and he reacts appropriately... by playing keep away. Shadow also accurately responds to neck reining and plow reining.
Caution Around>> Tin cans or, rather, the sound of two or more such items clinking together makes Shadow skittish, prone to bolting, and difficult to control for anyone who isn't absolutely confident in their seat. If he decides to run there are few things in this world that can stop a horse of his size and not a lot of riders strong enough to take control of his head once again.
Basic History>> When Erik was little he had the opportunity to not only see the Budweiser Clydesdales in action but also to go into their barn, to see them harnessed and unharnessed, and to even clean & feed one. The experience stuck with him and has forever after been enthralled with the draft horse breeds. So, when told that if he saved up money to buy his own horse his father and grandmother would match his savings Erik instantly launched into action. A series of mildly comedic money making schemes, microbusinesses, and one ponzie scheme later he was immersing himself in the horse trading business. Back and forth, hunting and inspecting, haggling and bluffing. Erik through his whole self into the search until he ended up making a deal with a wily old man from Amish country for a registered, papered Percheron gelding yearling.
Shadow was a rescue of sorts, purchased off a drunk who'd taken out a few frustrations on the horse in the poor attempt to saddle break it, and then resold to a boy. With the help of his much more experienced and educated family, Erik was able to overcome the poor handling his new horse had suffered and the beginning of a beautiful friendship (well, mischievous brotherhood) was born.
Owner>> Erik Kightlinger
Rider>> Erik Kightlinger
Discipline>> Western Pleasure/Driving
