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Post by Sam on Nov 26, 2008 0:58:14 GMT -5
Horse: Sneak Peak
Handler: Sam
Purpose: Building muscle and trying to be able to race at 4 furlongs
The warmed water lapped at the chestnut's chest and barrels. Eyes rolled in mock horror as I held her still. Silly little girl, I cooed to her. You know what water is, you know it's too low for you to drown in, I added with a small laugh as I put the two clips from side of the underwater treadmill on her halter so that her head didn't slip under. The silly mare would probably try to itch her leg and end up drowning.
I let her stand in the water for a moment, her eyes still rolling and nares flaring slightly. Patti stood there for a moment, watching me before impatiently pulling against the cross ties. With a small laugh, I turned on the treadmill, starting it off slow.
In a fury of snorts and splashes, Patti panicked. She pulled against her restraints then slowly, and almost curiously, stumbled a few steps. Somewhat confused, Patti just snorted before slowly working up to a normal and rather casual pace.
I would let her get use to this for a while. The little girl has never been on a tread mill underwater. She has been on several treadmills as we often check to make sure their lungs are fine while they run. I don't want any of my horses to suffer just so they can be a champion.
Slowly and carefully, I cranked up the power. Another small jolt then Patti found her pace again. Her back now swung a bit to keep up. I wanted to try and get her to try and trot, that would be the best way to build up muscle.
You see, I want her to build up some muscle so she can run faster, sooner. There are very few races that run at 4 furlongs but I figured it would help with the 5 furlong races as well. It couldn't hurt at all.
I pushed the power a centimeter more. The Thoroughbred filly snort before bouncing slightly in an awkward bouncing gait. What a good girl! I praised as I reached and rubbed her neck slightly. Her neck bent towards my touch. Such an affectionate girl!
I watched her as she continued one. Her auds twitched and her gaze started to drift. She must be getting bored. With a yawn and a stretch I realized I was as well. I couldn't blame her one bit. I'd rather be on the track then on some treadmill anyways.
Perhaps out of boredom, Patti pulled forwards, pushing against the restraints. I watched her for a moment until I decided to try out a new feature I got installed in. With a push of a button, resistance jets came on. Slowly, the chestnut equine was slowly going back to her normal place.
The jets brought a new interest to her. Every now and then I would see her push forwards then flow back then weave from side to side. She must like how the waves felt against her skin.
A few minutes passed and I clicked the jets off and slowly turned the power down. As the water drained, I led her out of the treadmill. I patted her soaking neck. Next time, we'll be on the track, I promised with another pat.
Word Count: 596
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