When I got to the new farmhouse this morning, I found Rocky in the far corner of the pasture, covered in flies and looking disoriented. I got Red and the two of us came close to him, and he followed us, closely and eagerly. It seemed as if he wanted to get into his stall but was confused by all the hammering and sawing nearby. I walked ahead, Red behind me, and Rocky alongside him. When Red got too far ahead, he paused and waited for Rocky to find him. In this way, the three of us made it to the barn.
It was clear to me that Red was guiding Rocky, waiting for him, clear that Rocky was looking for him, following him. He was also listening for my voice. It took us about 10 minutes to get near the stall and then, Rocky, sensing the new poles, hesitated and circled. I got the grain pan and shook it and he found a space he was comfortable with and came into the stall, where there is fresh hay, no flies and no hot sun.
It was a small experience, but one of the most powerful experiences I have had with animals. I have never had one like it. Below, the dog and the pony, walking together.
