Mounting Horse - Bizarre tale!

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worldchimp

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Had a nasty experience on Saturday. Have finally found someone to ride with a couple of villages away. I have to box up and meet her there as she has no transport. About six weeks ago, we went out for the first time. Parked up next to her horse's field and tacked up. Friend held horse while I mounted as soon as my weight got into the saddle, he started bucking and leaping around. (her horse was tied up about 10 yards away). Luckily, I stayed on him and got him back to walk. I found that my reins were crossed. So, sorted ourselves out and off we went. On Saturday, did the exact same thing, reins not crossed this time. Got on him and he bolted forward (not even towards friend's horse). Can you offer any advice? He has had everything checked and he has never done it since the first or second experience. He has been fine getting on at competitions, home and riding with other friends at their homes. What can I do as I am confused? Its baffling me. Aint horses odd at times!
 
Sounds like your horse is in pain: have you had his back and saddle checked very recently?

Aside from badly fitting tack or a problem with your horse's physiology, perhaps you had caught a bit of hair or skin somewhere.
 
One of my horses does this sometimes, I have had his back and teeth checked, since then he is a bit better, I have also changed his saddle pad to a really comfy one.

I have been told he is a little cold backed, now after I tack him up I either lunge him or walk him around for 5 or 10 mins, it just chills him out a bit and warms up his back, he then is not so bad when I get on.

I also walk him around in circles just after I get on him, as it seems to loosen him up a bit rather than just standing still if I am waiting for someone - good luck!
 
My lad can be the same and like Hermangerman said i would allow him time to warm up a little first see if that helps.
 
Same as others have said, my horse is either a bit cold backed or he has got into a habit so now I wouldn't dream of mounting off the floor when I first get on. I tack up, walk for about five minutes even letting him jog a bit in hand, get on using a block or something and walk away, makes such a difference. Years ago he did as you described in a fairly big show, main arena after we'd stripped off and trotted up, oh the embarrassment!!!
 
Does anyone normally hold him while you get on? Was at a show once with my boy and a friend held him while I got on. He went straight up. I had a routine with him getting on at home and not following this at the show I think upset him.
 
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