Expert: Solange Rian - 7/20/2009

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!

Solange