About Solange Rian Expertise I specialize in breaking and training difficult horses. I can provide advice on correcting behavior issues - cribbing, rearing, spinning; along with tack recommendations. I can also suggest feed programs, hoof care and explain dental care requirements.
Experience I have owned Horsehaven Stables since 2000 and will break 5 horses this year alone!! I believe in a humane, safe and intelligent method when breaking horses that is based on results and not time. I have gained a reputaion in the area for taking in dangerous horses that no one else wants and fixing them up. I keep them as personal riding horses for years and if I see improvement I will sell one eventually to the right owner and situtaion. I believe every horse deserves a chance to prove themselves. More often than not they prove it was the human's fault!!
Question Have had horse (Cali) since birth 2000. She was green broke in Fall'03 but after a long winter and a family tragedy I only rode her once in June'04. Since then I have done nothing with her. I tried to ride her again in May'07 only to be thrown and I needed x-rays.... I have little control over her and she knows it. I'm afraid to get on her and when I try to lounge her she faces me, pins her ears back and rears in my direction. At 9yo is it too late to train her? I would love to think that I will one day ride her but I lack the skill or time to train.
Also, I had only her and her mom for these 9 years. Mom just died on July 17th. Cali was very upset during moms last few hours and is very depressed, and barely eats. What can I do to cheer her up? And how long before she snaps out of it? Should I get her a companion or is now the time to give her a new home?
Answer Hi Shelly!
The very next thing you should do is speak to your vet, farrier or tack shop and ask them to recommend a local trainer who has experience in your horse's breed and the breaking process. Have him/her out to evaluate your situation and discuss your goals and what is best for your horse.
You cannot make this decision alone, you need a professional to steer you in the right direction. The trainer really needs to see the situation with their own eyes before they can give an opinion. I cannot even begin to say what might be best, but I know for sure you need help with deciding on what to do next.
As for her current sad state of loneliness, which is natural, I suggest you do not buy a companion until you have the professional trainer out to tell you if you should even keep her....and then form a logical plan for the next step.
Good luck and remember to always wear an ASTM/SEI approved helmet!
