New Rider + Ditzy Mare

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Lofty

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14 August 2013
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Good evening horsey world.

This is my first new thread, so please be kind.

I am new to riding for the second time, having not ridden properly for about 18 years, so re-learning a lot. I have been riding now for about 7-8 weeks.

My daughter and wife ride and we have two horses. The one I ride is a 10 year old cob. A lovely girl that we have only had for four weeks. She has a lovely temperament and follows me around now in the field and in the school if I jump off for five mins.

In the school I feel I have complete control. She does exactly as I ask and we are getting on well. Out on hacks its slightly different. 98% of the time she is fine, but when she hears another horse out and about she gets a little fizzy. Nothing major, bit of circling, trotting on the spot and mild jumping about, but just feels like she will go any minute. Other horse disappears into the distance and she is fine again. I imagine that a competent rider takes all this in their stride, but being a very green rider it un-nerves me some what.

So my question is:

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to stop her behaving like this. My worry is that if I don't nip it in the bud, she will be a nightmare when we take her to shows next year. (Incidentally, I will probably take her to a few shows before actually competing.)

or

Is it normal behaviour in some horses that after a few months I will hardly notice as I become a better rider?

Many thanks all

Lofty
 
Hi Faracat

Only ever in company, which she is fine with. It is only when she hears or sees other horses that she does not know.
 
As you are riding in company and you are coping with the situation, then it should get better with time. At the moment you are new to riding again and the mare is new to you and the area. It's not unusual behaviour. :)
 
I would suspect that you are now anticipating her reaction and are tensing up which is what she is picking up on. Next time you see another horse start singing, that will relax and distract you and I expect she will be more relaxed.
 
With my singing she'll definitely be off!!!!

I agree though, I suspect she is sensing my nervousness. Nothing like learning by doing. We'll just keep doing little hacks over and over. One of us will improve, and I suspect that will be me....
 
My horse also gets a bit excited when we meet another horse out hacking, especially if she can see or hear them in the distance but she is absolutely fine about other horses at shows. Try not to worry, it might not even be an issue - and, as others have said, as you continue to get to know each other and she becomes more settled and secure in her new home, you'll probably find this behaviour disappears. Good luck and enjoy your lovely mare!
 
I'd get someone experienced to hack her out as well as you. So that she's "kept in check" and has the benefit on someone confident on top (which will give her confidence). Just for the first few months until you get your confidence back.
 
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