I recently adopted an OTTB. Wonderful and kind horse in so many ways! He's nine-- his last race was in May and he was turned out on the owners farm for a couple of months before he came to me. He's currently turned out (at my farm) with his new buddy (my other TB riding horse) in a pasture with a run-in shed and he also has a stall in the barn as does his buddy. During the first week after he arrived I would take turns leading them from the pasture to the barn and into their stalls and vice versa-- I would lead one while the other waited his turn. At first I had no problem. But now the new OTTB will not leave his stall -- nor will he leave the run-in shed when I try to lead him first. He doesn't back up-- there is no fear or flight -- he simply (and quietly) won't budge. He practically goes to sleep! He will only move and offer to go forward when his buddy is led away first. Then he willingly wants to follow of course. I've never had this sort of problem with any of my other horses. All are willing and happy to go wherever I want to go-- with or without their buddy. FYI: I have not ridden this new OTTB yet-- we're just getting acquainted and I'm giving him time to get used to his new home. He seems relaxed and happy-- but now won't lead when I ask him. Any suggestions?
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Hi. This horse has had a major lifestyle change. He's moved from a very regular routine in the racing yard to being retired. Racehorses in training most commonly work in pairs or groups. It's not really odd that this fella is clinging to his single pal. It takes most horses quite a while to settle in when changing homes & owners can see numerous 'new' behaviours. Do you use Monty's Methods? If you do I suggest you perform Join up &, using a Dually head collar, start off with basic ground skills - leading, stopping & backing up being calm & consistent, fair & generous with praise. You may need to have his pal close by or you might find that too much of a distraction. You need to see what this horse needs & then meet those needs. You'll find immense rewards when you get your partnership up & running. Good luck. Cheers, Jo.
Aw poor guy..I agree with Jo, it sounds like he needs the security of the other horse. There is a danger here of overbonding so this needs addressing quickly - do you have access to a third horse? I remember Kelly Marks saying better to have three than two to stop overbonding, even one on his own is better than a pair.
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I would suggest focusing on the psychology of his behaviour rather than the fact that he won't move - as we know that he is perfectly capable of moving; it's his head that is feeling fearful of being alone. Have a look at the threads on seperation anxiety and see what you think.
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I'm looking forward to hearing how you progress with this nice sounding boy.
Thanks for the replies! And I agree-- lifestyle change + a certain amount of separation anxiety and anxiety in general: being in a new home. However, this wonderful horse HAPPILY will leave the barn when saddled. He steps right out and seems to really enjoy hacking around the farm. We've only gone out alone-- leaving his buddy behind-- and there is no separation anxiety. A whinny here and there but nothing to indicate he's anxious at all. I'm sure this 'good' behavior is a direct result of being on the track-- going out alone, etc...and I'm thankful for that. He is a fabulous and quiet ride, marvels at the trees and wildlife yet takes it all in stride. What a good boy! My feeling at this point is that Dragon (his nickname) is just plain tired of the rigors of the racetrack and racing--and in time will realize that life on the farm (with me) is pretty great. He is leading a bit better-- depending on the situation-- with pressure and release (with praise) at that golden moment (Monty's method) and I'm confident he will continue to respond. Will keep you posted.
He sounds absolutely wonderful! Looking forward to hearing more about your journey with Dragon