Yesterday we had a new potential volunteer come to the ranch and we are so excited for the possibilities. She has a ton of riding experience, but not so much positive reinforcement training. She is interested to learn, though, and we are excited to have someone who not only wants to learn, but already knows how to ride well, which could be a big asset for us with getting some of the horses more comfortable with riding, but in a R+ manner.

We worked with Sugar and Miss Patti yesterday, getting both of those gals some much needed movement. Sugar did not want to do much walking around the round pen, but her legs are so stiff she really needs it. So instead of using a whip to push her forward (which she does not respond too well, anyway), we used some treats and urged her forward, and then she merrily made her way around the round pen several times in both directions. I noticed she is limping on her right hind leg, poor girl, the arthritis is really getting to her. The more walking we can get her to do though, the better, because as we know, if you don’t use it, you lose it!

And I have been encouraging Patti to do more squats at home, and lift some light weights just overhead, so that she would have more upper body strength and be able to get on the horses more easily. She is a great student, and has been putting in the time at home, and I can sure tell! It is easier for her to steady herself, not only for putting a leg up over a horse, but then to sit down gently and with control, and then to still be able to steady herself while sitting up there, so as to make herself a more comfortable ‘backpack’ for the horse to carry. Yet one more example of why I always say, you can’t take really great care of them, without taking good care of yourself, too.

It doesn’t matter if you are talking about horses, or dogs and cats. With dogs, we need to be able to take them for walks without them pulling us where we might fall over, and with cats, we need to have enough strength and dexterity to brush their teeth and trim their nails. So next time you don’t feel like getting off the couch, do it anyway, for them. Daily try to do at least one or two squats, and lift some water bottles overhead, one in each hand. If you can at least do that, then you will be stronger than before you did it, and it will help you live longer, be healthier, and be a better pet parent. How’s that for a win-win? If you won’t do it for yourself, then at least, do it for them. Dr’s orders. Ha!

Are you with me in having a hard time believing that it is already the week of Thanksgiving? Us too, and it means it is time to get down the Christmas decorations and start to prepare for our Pet Pictures with Santa happening so soon. If you have not already secured your spot, I encourage you to do so now. It is filling up fast especially with the CSU Science van coming by for you to explore as well. It promises to be our most fun event yet, and we hope to see you there! The sign up is here https://www.resqranch.org/pet-pics-with-santa-signup

But first, we will have a busy day at the hospital today, because we have to get all those acupuncture and other treatments done, that those pets need, before being closed for a couple of days at the end of the week so that my staff can spend time with their families. I am especially grateful to Chelsea who chose to forgo her original holiday plans to stay in town and help take care of the animals in the hospital over the holiday. Thank you Chelsea, grateful for her!

I am grateful today that I got to spend some time outside with the horses in the beautiful weather yesterday, with good people, and healthy animals, demonstrating how R+ is different, and more compassionate. I am grateful my oldest daughter is home from college and I get to spend some time with her, I am grateful for my entire staff (especially Chelsea), clients, patients, our building we get to work in, and that today we get to help animals feel better and hopefully put a smile on some faces. I am grateful I woke up today and get to be there for the people counting on me. I am lucky and grateful to even have people counting on me.

​What about you? Did you rest yesterday so you could start this week off fresh, rested, and bringing your best self forward today? I hope so. Because you deserve it. Today is a gift, and I hope you find joy in everything you do. Amazing things will happen for you today. Do your best in all things today, you have everything you need to have a wonderful day. Know that you deserve love, joy, and peace. Today, have some fun! Do a little dance! Carve out some time to be in the moment so that you can make yourself just a little bit better today, than you were yesterday. And know that I am grateful for you, you Animal Loving Angel. Have a wonderful day!

Check out my YouTube channel for a daily "Good Morning!" from the rescues and lots of free tips and training resources. https://www.youtube.com/@the1drq