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Discussion on Grazing opportunities are killing my hands!!
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Posted on Thursday, May 27, 1999 - 6:24 pm:
I have been working with a four year old Quarter Horse gelding that has one embarrassing, not to mention dangerous, issue. On his off days he does not agree to being led, and instead tears the lead rope from my hands and bolts to the nearest grass so he can graze. He doesn't do it everyday, location doesn't seem to matter, and he is not aggressive toward me when I attempt to retrieve him. I usually just let him go, as he far outweighs me, and one rope burn was enough to learn what holding on can do. I am afraid that he is learning that I am smaller and weaker and will let him go. I am fairly certain his owner would not be high on using a chain with his halter, what alternatives do I have?
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Posted on Thursday, May 27, 1999 - 10:38 pm:
You have the right idea about the stud chain and it may only take a session or two to get the point across. A suggestion: Have the owner come out on this Lil S___ day off and have them do the leading. Should change their minds about the use a stud chain pretty quick!!!
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Karen S |
Posted on Friday, May 28, 1999 - 10:19 am:
Brandy - Did you read my post about the gelding who attacked the toddler? Well, your experience with the QH is EXACTLY how that horse's bad behaviour started. Please, don't ever let him get away with it. I suggest you should always wear gloves when leading him, and get a cotton lead rein that won't hurt your hands like a nylon one. Carry a whip, and anticipate trouble. A stud chain or a stallion bit on the head collar is a good idea. As SOON as he gives the slightest sign of wanting to pull (and you'll learn to read the signs if you're alert to it) give a sharp yank on the chain or a smart smack on the shoulder with your whip. But you must react quickly. He'll probably be surprised by your action if he's gotten away with it before... so that's the time to praise him for NOT pulling away. It will probably only take a couple of times to make him realise he can't get away with it, and accept that you're the leader of the herd. But it's real important to have this attifude in all your dealings with him on the ground AND in the saddle. Good luck! Karen
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Marlane |
Posted on Friday, May 28, 1999 - 11:10 am:
It is possible to control a horse without a chain but it is harder.If you can use a chain thread it through all the rings around the nose band of the halter having it cross over the nose band,always wear gloves with or wothout a chain when leading this type of horse.If the owners absolutely refuse to let you use a chain,then always be aware that wherever a horses nose is pointed he will follow.So practise at home with out the grass.Plant your feet and pull his head around toward you don't forget to say whoa[you can teach him this at the same time]When you are out by grass lead him straight to it but do not let him pull,let him eat for a few minutes and then take him away and go to another place to eat.You have to be the decision maker.
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IdaL. |
Posted on Friday, May 28, 1999 - 11:36 am:
Hi,Brandy. I don't like using a chain on a horse unless he's agressive. I have a lot of sucess with karen's method though and each time, the horse learns so quickly. What you do is carry a crop with you, when the horse is moving away from you or dip his head down to get the grass, make a sound (like kissing sound or whatever) and give him a quick tap on his chest. His instant reaction is to pick up his head so you lead him away immediately. You can also signals him that he can graze now; lead him to grass, make him stand for 1 second without yanking, and say 'release' in a happy tone and let him graze. Of course if he rushes you or yanks he gets the tap and NO grazing. (circle him once and try again.) For reinforcement, when he picks up his head and follows you you can give him a carrot. Most horses learn this in no time. With my horse I give a kissing sound and he will leave his hay or food and go with me. You just need to catch him before he took off. This is good training for trail rides too because I find a lot of horses focus on grazing and will not stand still to be mounted. Something easy for you and your horse to learn together! Ida
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Brandy V. |
Posted on Friday, May 28, 1999 - 10:44 pm:
Hi Everyone!! I appreciate the advice you all sent to me!! He is a great horse usually, but sometimes just wants to be a poop. I am ALWAYS very patient with him so we will have plenty of time to practice everything I've just read! Thanks again! It was such a relief to find people who could advise me with this little problem.
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