Houdini pony - how to keep him in a stable?

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Dovorian

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My NF has decided that he will not stay in the yard alone, even for a couple of minutes. Before I rush out and buy a grill (which I'd prefer not to do as I like them to be able to look out), has anyone any suggestions? I wondered if a slip rail arrangement would be enough to stop him jumping out.

On the plus side, the little devil can certainly jump!!
 
My NF will jump through a weaving grill - I would not use a weaving grill as they can get stuck in the V.

The only option is the full grill if you really have to keep him in - though mine did not like the grill and would rear and bash his legs against the grill - so no win situation.

However I moved yards and he now has a much bigger stable - and he has not tried to jump out since he has been at this yard which is over a year - though he lives out so he only comes in for a munch of hay occasionally - before he used to jump out almost as soon as the door was shut so this is a huge improvement - so perhaps try a different stable.
 
What a shame it sounds like he suffers from seperation anxiety to me. Instead of finding loads of products to keep him imprisoned (even for a few minutes) why not spend the money on getting someone like Richard Maxwell/Michael Pearce to help guide you into getting him to accept being away from his friends. Its not going to happen overnight but in the same way its kinder to stop a horse that bolts by getting its teeth/back/saddle checked out first rather than buying a really strong bit, it would be kinder if you could sort out the route of the problem first. I know its not always practical, but in the long run you owe it to your horse.

I know you probably only meant that last statement in a jokey way but ..... he might be able to jump but I wouldn't really see that as a plus. My friends horse tried to jump out of a paddock a few months ago and had to be rescued by the firebrigade after getting stuck over the five bar gate, and could easily have broken a leg or her neck/back. She was off work for months with loads of issues, and may never be the horse she once was. xx
 
Another idea is what about things to keep him occupied while in the stable. A mirror or toys. Our welshie is on box rest atm and we are constantly trying to keep her busy.

Feed ball, radio on, nettles to chew, turnip, hiding carrots etc in her hay. I have to say she is really chilled out.

Maybe you could spend time with him while he is in and gradually let him spend more and more time on his own.
 
I feel for you, two of mine are like this completely inseperable.

They have to go everywhere together, which is a complete pain
frown.gif
 
You could remedy this situation, but it does take a lot of hard work. There is no way on this earth I would ever let a 'clingy' horse stop me from doing what I wanted to do, horses shouldn't be able to dictate to you like that! That would be a complete pain to me also!! Sympathies.
 
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