What does it mean, Con-di-tion-ing?

Wilma here. My partner and I have started doing con-di-tion-ing. So far that means we are going for walks in the neighborhood. Fast walks. During our last walk we even did some trots. My partner walks and trots beside me. Her legs aren't as long as mine, but she works hard to keep pace with me, so my trotting is with small steps right now. She says that over time we will do more trotting and less walking, and then when the time is right she will ride me and I will trot. Her work then will involve going up and down in the saddle to make it easier for me to carry her.

I like this con-di-tion-ing. We get to spend time together. My partner apologized for ignoring me so much for the last couple of months. I understand; it's been cold, and dark, and rainy. She did not hurt my feelings by skipping con-di-tion-ing in those days! So now we walk, and when we come back to the barn she rubs me all over, and then I stretch for treats - between my front legs, to the right side (ick), and to the left side (easy). That is fun, too. I love doing things with my partner.