Thread: how do i
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Old 27-11-2008, 08:46 PM
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Re: how do i

I think your approach depends on the circumstances...

Can you tell us a little more about this horse? Is it afraid of being handled, or is it just misbehaving? Does it not like to be caught because it doesn't like coming in to work; like do you only bring it in to do work?

If it is an older horse that is not used to being handled, then I don't see a problem with using a carrot or 2 to get their trust. We have an old mare where I work, when she first arrived she was absolutely terrified of people, wouldn't let anyone touch her. So every time my co-worker passed her with another horse she'd throw a little treat in the paddock. Soon the mare came up to the fence to get it, and eventually would take it from her hand. Then the mare allowed my friend to stroke her, then finally she could get the headcollar on and lead her out. It took a long time, but this was a very severe case.

But I agree with tris blu, do not use titbits if the horse is perfectly used to being handled and is just being stubborn!

Try to make coming in a more enjoyable experience, feed the horse once its inside, spend time giving the horse affection, lots of scratching its shoulders and botty, and lots of soothing words, then the horse will be forever at the gate nagging to be let in. Believe me!!
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