Ah having been on holiday the last week i missed the original so shall put my input on here
Bear in mind i dont know the whole story just what you said in brief on this thread
Hitting after the event - downright stupid as horse will not associate it
However if a horse reared up at me - regardless of whether it was playful or not - it would be told not to and if that involved it being given a smack so damn well be it!! I've been on the recieving end of a horse i worked with rearing up and kicking me and i will not put myself in a dangerous situation like that.
I dont hit horses usually and have never ever raised my hand to my rocky - but if a horse was displaying what i would consider dangerous or rude behaviour then it would be disciplined, end of.
Like i said - discplining after the act is completely pointless - but i completely see your YOs point of view if she felt threatened by your horse.
Saying that - i would go beserk if anyone laid a finger on rock - but hes a v well mannered horse and v controlled so doesnt need it.
BUT please remember - i dont know the whole story - only going on whats been said here.
