Expert: Sarah Lothmann - 1/19/2009

Question
I bought a welsh pony mare last summer. The people told me that she was bomb proof, but she is not. She spooks over everything wish is bad, especially when I am trying to give lessons on her. She also stops for no reason, when she gets ridden by little kids. How can I despook her, and make her trot without sudden stops? Also she doesnt want to canter.

Answer
Exposure, repeated exposure!  Also intolerance for improper behavior.  I'm not suggesting you scold or beat the pony.  I am suggesting firm reprimand when she spooks for "no good reason".  As a trainer, I am sure you know what I mean by firm reprimand.  A hollow cupped hand to "pop" her once can sometimes be enough.  Keep in mind, ponies are notorious for trying to get away with bad manners! =) It's one of the things I love about them so much!  They can truly be little stinkers can't they?  In my past, when school ponies acted up, I would find one of the teenagers who rode quite well to hop on and not take "no" for an answer.  A crop is going to be a good idea I am thinking. As for the cantering issue, if she just does a super fast trot, throw a pair of spurs on the teenager you find to ride her.  Have the rider work on extended trots and collected trots.  Hold the pony in a frame with a gentle yet firm hand so as give the pony proper balance.  Often when a horse gets into the habit of not cantering it is because they have improper balance through the transition.  When this happens, the horse/pony develops muscle tone disproportionately to sustain the fast messy trot.  Therefor, results will unlikely happen over night.  Collection and extension within a frame over a few weeks to build muscle and balance will be the key to get this mare cantering!  Good luck!