| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| Tonim |
Posted - 10 May 2011 : 12:33:07 PM
I have a 2 year old filly that's getting quite feisty. As I'm not used to handling youngsters I would be grateful for some advice.
She's generally quite good to lead but she's started to mess about when leading her to and from the field, she'll leap in the air with hooves flying in all directions or cow kick out, i know she's just being a baby and its excitement but she's already caught me a couple of times. I lead her in a headcollar and rope.
Also, she can be quite pushy in the stable, I'm trying to be kind but firm with her but again I would appreciate any advice. |
| 7 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| ali bali |
Posted - 10 May 2011 : 9:56:42 PM
I always made sure I was fully 'kitted' up with riding hat and gloves during the brief week long period my then 2 year old decided that it was a good game to stand on his hind legs when being led. It meant I didn't have to be concerned for my own safety and that allowed me to be completely confident when I was handling him. I would have worn a body protector too if I owned one!
Because I knew I had safety kit on I was so confident and positive in my attitude and I think that was why he stopped messing about so quickly. Every time I saw he was thinking about trying it on I just asked him to do something different to redirect his energy, ie if we were walking forwards I would stop and ask him to yield his hindquarters or something similar. It took his mind off naughty games, redirected his energy and taught him a little ground work all at the same time. He is only the second youngster Ive dealt with though so it might not work for all... |
| NatH |
Posted - 10 May 2011 : 4:00:54 PM
I agree a long rope is essential.
Be firm with your voice when she messes about or even thinks about it. Just use 'NO' or something similar. Show her you are not pleased. Make her stand still for a little while so she can take stock of her actions.
You could certainly try a stronger halter. Many people use these with great success.
When she is good reward her.
Always try and stay one step ahead of her to avoid her back legs.
Use your voice in a calming tone when she is good.
Well done for taking her on, alway stay safe 'cause she relys on you.
I would never use a crop, whip or stick with your filly but it would hurt to carry one.
You can use the same methods in the stable, its important at this stage that she doesn't become bargy.
All the best, keep us posted. |
| Tonim |
Posted - 10 May 2011 : 3:48:05 PM
I should just add that she is a rescue case and is requiring quite a lot of TLC because of her poor condition, although she is slowly improving hence her sudden zest for life! |
| george |
Posted - 10 May 2011 : 3:39:01 PM
Dually halters are fab, you really have that little bit of extra control but in a nice way. If she is pushy you really want to back her up every time she tries to bully you out of the way, it is quite a powerful reinforcement tool and if you "remind" her enough and every time she does it you will notice the results very quickly, insist on manners when you enter the stable and make her back up for you to come in, when leading her if she really tries to run in front of you back her up, tell her to stand and hold a training whip across her chest and tell her to WALK if she starts to pull or get in front of you just lightly tap her chest, this will usually be enough for a filly but if she carries on make her stand and back up again. If you keep doing this she will soon get the message, patience and persistence will be required in abundance  |
| moatside |
Posted - 10 May 2011 : 3:36:36 PM
I second a dually halter and a longer than normal lead rope. |
| Judith S |
Posted - 10 May 2011 : 3:04:14 PM
A long lead rope is essential and a Dually we have found to be less severe than a be-nice, but still gives good control. A lesson or two with an experienced handler, for you and the horse will not do any harm - we found a NH approach was good with pressure/release. |
| Kharidian |
Posted - 10 May 2011 : 2:51:10 PM
24 hour turn out in a decent-sized paddock with suitable companions so she can burn off excess energy (if possible).
A long rope is essential so you can get out of her way but still have control, a "be-nice" type halter, bags of patience and be firm but fair.
Is she bored? Can you do "interesting" things to keep her mind occupied i.e. to occasionally lead around/over poles, desensitising to umbrellas/plastic bags etc, walks out (initially with a sensible comnpanion). I find that two year olds need/want to learn.
I'm sure other replies will give lots of tips.
Caryn |
