Kicking Out

[HOLCHE]

I'm having a few issues with my 5 yr old mare kicking out. She lets me touch her legs, pick her hooves out etc. But.... occasionally she will lash out with her back leg. I'm very careful when handling her hind legs, particularly after having got kicked in the face a few weeks ago.

Had another kick off her at the weekend when trying to remove a boot from her hind leg. Ouch my poor leg - thankfully I moved quickly so no real damage done just plenty of bruising.

Has anyone got advice on how to deal with this? Like I say she only lashes out occasionally so it is quite unpredictable when it will happen. Now I've had other peoples opinions of "give her a good whack when she does it". Does anyone have any advice?

 

[sackofbadgers]

I know lots of people will say I am soft but my young mare started doing this at 5. I took the approach of a firm NO when this happened with a pinch to her skin if necessary. I saw it as a trust issue as it was only when I was handling her legs.

She is the sort to retaliate if provoked although is generally a nice natured mare. Seems to be working as the frequency has diminished. It is important not to let them intimidate you though or it will escalate - mares eh!

 

[Kenzo]

Sorry a horse/youngster would be feeling the sharp end of my boot if it raised threatend a leg or kicked me, you only need to once or twice, they get the message.

Occasional or not, it's very dangerous, specially when you have already been kicked in the face once, next time you might not be so lucky.

Is there any medical reason why she could be lashing out?

Is it the same leg?

Are you sure its not when she's feeling a fly on her? (I know that sounds really stupid but I had to ask)

Is she lashing out due to impatience/excitement rather than actually meaning to kick you in a nasty way?

 

[HOLCHE]

No I'm pretty sure it wasn't a fly - the boots have tough velcro so it may be impatience. No medical reason that I'm aware of - recently had the vet & physio out to her. I was clutching my leg shouting at my mate to give her a smack.

I was thinking of having a whip with me so I can smack her leg if she tries it again. She's certainly got attitude so I don't want to get close in case she retaliates. I think the words b****y mare, never having another one again were heard coming from my mouth!