Behaviour therapist or calmer?

[dwi]

I realise in an ideal world that you might well pay for both but if didn't want to stretch to both in the same month which would you go for?

We did some "Join Up" tonight (hate calling it that but you know what I mean) and she really got it. After ten minutes of tarting about she submitted and was really calm and sensible. She walked calmly following me round the school, backed up, moved away, let me fuss her and was generally lovely. Unfortunately it didn't last once we'd left the school and she went crazy in her stable.

I'm not sure whether to spend £90 on having a therapist out to do some work with Lil or whether to try her on Relax Me and keep going with the groundwork myself.

I would count myself as fairly capable when it comes to dealing with stroppy bags as Daisy was a real expert when I first got her. I do think I've got the skills to calm Lil down but its going to take me a long time and I'd rather neither of us got injured in the process.

*A slice of my lovely Sticky Toffee Cake to all for reading*

 

[spaniel]

As you are a capable and sensible person I suggest the calmer and carry on the good work yourself.

Give it time.

 

[wizbit]

personally i think calmers are a load of b*****s, id go for help anytime but just make sure its the right sort, there are so many cowboys out there!

 

[Keltic]

It sounds like your doing a sterling job! Id go for a good calmer and carry on with what you have been doing, its still early days and your getting to know each other. Carry on get her on side and you know she will be a cracker!!

 

[NeedNewHorse]

I would maybe have a sit down and think about the problem. I don't know what problems you are experiencing but sometimes if you write or jot down the problems issues and do a bit of research and face it all again with some new ideas and a plan of action then maybe you could just sort this out - as a starter think about everything from the horses point of view and work your way from there and do not be afraid to think outside the box!!

The only thing I can really suggest though, is taking your time, being patient and just consistently keep plugging away and before you know it things will start to change... Just don't expect too much too soon, consistent work will pay off.


Best of luck.x

 

[dwi]

I would maybe have a sit down and think about the problem. I don't know what problems you are experiencing but sometimes if you write or jot down the problems issues and do a bit of research and face it all again with some new ideas and a plan of action then maybe you could just sort this out - as a starter think about everything from the horses point of view and work your way from there and do not be afraid to think outside the box!!

All of her difficulties stem from a dislike of being told no or not being allowed to do exactly what she wants.

The biggest problem is that she absolutely hates being stabled or tied up. Not a problem you might think in that she's living out for summer now but I still need to get her in to ride her.

If you put her in a stable to groom or tack up she weaves for England and paces so much that you can't get anywhere near her to actually do anything with her.

If you tie her up outside she is better but she still paws, spins round and tugs away until the string snaps.

Riding wise she is now fine most of the time but if she doesn't fancy it or she sees something she would rather be doing she rears and bronks.

 

[air78]

I'd get some help from a behaviourist, it sounds like you've got a few seperate issues. For what it's worth IMHO calmers don't make a huge difference, where as consistant training can make a huge difference.

Go for the training, you might both really enjoy it!