How do I stop my horse rearing?

26
Mar
2010

"Hi, my 16.2hh 11-year-old Warmblood gelding has been with me for three years. He was very difficult at first, barging and taking off with me all the time, but in the last couple of years has been very good. We had to sell his grazing buddy and best friend a couple of days ago and he was quite distressed, calling a lot and galloping around the field. He is still with our other horse, who he has been with for several years. Today I tried to ride him for the first time since his friend went and he went bucking bronco as soon as I got on him; when he didn't get me off, he started rearing and then bucking until I eventually came off. He then galloped off to the horses' field. I caught him and tried to lead him up to the school to get on in a safer area, but as soon as we got near the school he started rearing and pulling away until I had to let go. I realise he is obviously grieving for his friend, but where should I go from here and how much time should I allow before I try to get on him again? He has broken my hip twice in the past by rearing up and falling over backwards so I am naturally wary of getting on if he is going to rear. He really is a lovely horse, just very sensitive and I'm concerned that this has pushed him over the edge! Thanks for any advice, Dawn."

H&C blogger and Olympic eventer Sharon Hunt replies: "I think it sounds as though he has had a few issues for a while. Breaking your hip twice is a serious problem and not to be treated lightly. I'm guessing you've had all the usuals checked - teeth, saddle, physio, etc. as he would need it If he's gone over twice too. Perhaps for now you should just lunge him with side reins, definitely not too tight if he's likely to rear, but to try and get him to listen to you again from the ground if he won't with you on him. Make sure he goes at the speed you want and it is polite and constructive work and he's not just spinning around. Once he comes out relaxed and stays relaxed in his work then you should get back on. I know you think he's upset as his friend has gone but he must still behave and not throw tantrums because he hasn't got what he wants. Hope this helps."