Awareness of the outside world. “NPR reports on a very exciting improvement in the fentanyl epidemic … There are still too many, obviously. But this sharp decline is unprecedented and it’s very good news.” Digby’s’ Hullaballo: A Little Good News To Brighten Our Day, September 18, 2024.
~~~
I don’t think Western is going to be a miracle fix for Rodney. It was a longshot, but a dog can dream. We still have the saddle on loan. We will keep the concept under consideration.
At the beginning of the ride, he strides along as if he is more comfortable. As the ride goes along, his anxiety builds. He does the same on the lunge.
Next idea. Bareback. See what Rodney is like with no saddle at all. See if I can do a better job than last time. “Getting off was a bit of a sideshow.” [Sans Saddle]
Although, now that I look back over the posts, I am reminded that Rodney is not a fan of being ridden bareback.
“He thinks it’s weird. Rodney doesn’t do weird.” [Looking Forward] 2017
“Does Rodney like bareback? Noooooo.” [In Which We Learn Things But Not The Things We Were Setting Out to Learn] 2022
Clearly, I have blocked this from my memory.
Previous Western Posts
[Guess My Mystery Project]
[The Mystery Project Is … drumroll …]
[First Western Purchase]
[First Western Lesson]
[First Western Ride]
[Western Saddle Observations]
For Your Amusement
Onwards!
Katherine
Virtual Brush Box 
Correct me if I’m wrong, but doesn’t Rodney suffer from an old back injury courtesy of his sire? If so, I’d be inclined to agree with you (and him) that bareback probably isn’t going to be his thing. I am by no means an expert on much of anything, but I know several people who swear by this brand saddle for their horses that struggle with various different back complaints. Lots of options. Might be worth a gander? https://www.barefootsaddlesusa.com/default.asp
You are correct & thank you. Will look into.