AboutShelley Evans Expertise I would be happy to respond to enquiries in the following disciplines: dressage, working western, hunter, halter (open and IAHA), hack and pleasure. I can also offer assistance with schooling and equitation issues.
Experience Twenty years Class A show circuit including multiple championships.
Organizations CEF, IAHA, BCHC, IALHA
Publications Inside International
Education/Credentials BA, MEd, Teaching Certificate (PDP), CEF Western Level I Coach, provincialy approved Hack, Equitation and Western Judge.
Question Hi, Im new to this site, and from what Ive read, you guys have got it goin on!! I have a horse problem, with a 6 year old Quarter Mare, shes as sweet as honey when Im ground working her, and all while I tack her up and mount her, then as soon as I ask her to move, she pretty much loses it, back-peddling, throwing her head, rearing, and kicking. Ive had days where I would ride her for miles and never have a problem, but thats only 10% of the time. Shes put me in the hospital countless times, then physical therepy, but honestly, I CANT give up on her, I can see it in her, the calm, sweet, OBEDIANT horse that she is while Im with her in the field or barn. She runs to me neighing when I go out to the fenceline, thats a good sign, right? Ive never had to chase her, I could saddle her in the field while she grazes and never have to tie her, but she dosent like being ridden, or something.... please help, shes my best buddy, and I want to be able to go places together:-)
Answer Dear Nina,
What is most puzzling about your letter is that this mare occasionally allows you to head out and ride her with no issues. This is very disconcerting. I will give you some suggestions BUT you may well need to re-visit your commitment to this horse. She may be the horse for somebody - but not necessarily the horse for you. Remember how many wonderful horses are out there looking for homes- this one might end up putting you in the hospital one day and you might not come out again. You don't say how long you have had this horse or what the previous owner's experiences were - but at six- her behaviours are quite ingrained not necessarily permanent -but you are looking at a serious re-school.
Anyway- I don't want to appear all "doom and gloom" here are some suggestions:
Have your vet give this horse a really thorough physical - explain what you have been experiencing and try to rule out anything physical. Then make sure that your tack isn't the issue.
Ruling these things out- go back to ground driving her in a surcingle- making sure that she is fully committed to the bridle and giving through her back. Lunge her with tack on. Get someone to lunge her while you mount her and keep her on the lunge circle- even have someone lead her around until she relaxes when you apply leg, mount/dismount over and over again, Sometimes horses develop issues just with having someone above them. When she goes to blow- take her head right around to your ankle and keep her moving- use a ring martingale (not the same as a running martingale)- this will help you to keep the correct angle from your hand to her mouth even if she goes to throw her head. Build lunging into ALL of your riding sessions.
Failing this- invest in two months (30 days is too short) with a trainer to give you a professional assessment of what's going on.
Wear a helmet. Be patient but give yourself a reasonable time frame- say- three months.
S. Evans
