AboutToni Yates Expertise I can answer general questions about the miniature horse breed- care, temperament, conformation, breeding and normal health questions but I am not a vet.
Experience I have bred and raised miniature horses for about 4 years and currently own 6 (with another one on the way). A good friend has been breeding and training them for over 10 years and is my source for information that I don't have.
Organizations AMHR, AMHA, AQHA, PHBA and the Virginia Miniature Horse Club.
Education/Credentials I have attended seminars and training sessions. I have done a lot of research and have a reference library on the Miniature Horse Breed.
Awards and Honors My daughter and my horses have participated in various competitions and shows on the local and state level and we have numerous ribbons as well as champion and reserve championship trophies.
Expert: Toni Yates Date: 6/16/2008 Subject: head rubbing
Question Hi, my name is Carmen. I got my first miniature horse about seven months ago. She seems to be doing very well, but whenever I take her back to the barn or take her away from what she likes, she starts to rub her head against my leg or arm. It seems like she does this when she is not happy. She will do it for a few minutes and then settle down. Is there anything I can do to prevent her from rubbing?
Thanks,
Carmen
Answer Hi Carmen-
Thanks for your question. In my experience, head rubbing or invasion of your space can be interpreted as a lack of respect. In other words, she is not thinking of you as her herd leader but as an equal and therefore is showing her displeasure with you. You really should discourage that behavior. I would either smack/push her away with a loud NO (it doesn't need to be hard) or carry comething blunt in your hand that you can poke into her neck when she starts rubbing that makes it uncomfortable for her (like a clothespin, etc.)Again- the goal is to make it uncomfortable and to show her who's in charge- not to be cruel. If you don't draw the line she could continue to get worse. Hope this helps. Best, Toni
