Horse stressing when buddy taken out of stable

[adpierce]

We have recently moved our three horses ( 1x 16.2 TB aged 16; 1x 17.2 WBxTB aged 14; 1x 15.1 Arab aged 9) to a new yard. The arab and the WBxTB have been together for about 6 years. We got the TB last October.
Their previous stables were grilled from 4ft upwards so they could see each other. The new stables only have a door to hang their heads over.
The Arab is happy and settled.
The TB is not that bothered - but I think he preferred his last stable.
The WBxTB is okay until the arab is taken out of view and then he goes nuts. A distinct change in eye; he kicks the door and almost runs around his stable whinnying.
This continues until the arab returns.
They are turned out until brought in for riding and are content in the field (except the TB keeps the arab away - but he doesn't care anyhow).
Haven't tried just taking arab out of field on his own because of the chance of the WBxTB jumping fence but that was to be my next move.
Also to speak to the yard owner about removing some of the partitions which separate the stables.
Would appreciate any help/thoughts.

 

[equity]

Hi, It may take a while for the wbx to settle in, each horse is different. I would try removing the arab out of the stable for a few mins and then return it. Keep repeating at intervals, over afew weeks until the wb knows the arab will always be back. Perhaps doing the same with the field situation. Never leave it on its own tho. Some horses are more easily upset if their routine is changed, and they have to get used to new place. I have this with 3 horses kept together and any change in routine upsets the dynamics of the group for a while.

 

[scotsmare]

My warmblood baby has serious attachment issues with one of our pony's who has been sold and is moving tomorrow *gulp* am dreading the whole separation thing! When my daughter rode the pony we always had to bring the warmblood in as it went nuts in the field - my policy has always been to ignore her in the stable though as no point in rewarding annoying behaviour by acknowledging it. Your horses obviously have a very strong pair bond. However, that aside it might just be that your boy isn't that settled at the new yard or you might have to do what we do and always bring him in when you ride but just ignore him. If you leave him out then make sure fencing is very secure and that there is no chance he could get caught on anything. He may eventually stop his silliness but as long as you keep reinforcing his behaviour by giving into him then he'll keep doing it.

 

[DuckToller]

One of mine has huge separation anxiety issues whenever he goes somewhere new. I'm sure yours will get better, just takes time and patience in a new environment. Think if you can take some panels down that would be a help. All my stables have gaps so they can see each other without hanging heads over the door and they are much calmer when they can see over.