Pulling horse

[Chestnut mare]

My pony is getting a bit naughty when we are cantering in company! She sets her neck and charges off! She is not left behind all the people are sensible and do not canter off as soon as their feet touch the grass! She was ridden in a snaffle but someone suggested trying her in a hanging cheek to lower her poll but that has made no difference whatsoever! Help! Thanks muchly!

 

[Iceni]

I had this problem with my ex racer who leaned when out hacking, despite me having lots of schooling with my instructor on trying to convince him not to! Anyway another exracer owner suggested a Waterford bit, which looks worse than it is. Basically it's made of lots of links which give so there's nothing to 'get hold of'. But I would try schooling first, if you can, so she learns it doesn't gain her anything before going for a stronger bit. Waterford did work wonders for me and my horse had a nice foaming mouth with it.

 

[Chestnut mare]

Someone else has suggested a Waterford before! It's been a while since she's been out with other horses so I think it's mostly excitement! It's a viscous circle cos she does it I won't canter with other horses and not cantering with other horses means we won't solve it .

 

[Iceni]

Do you use a martingale with her - stop her getting her head up? You could try a stronger bit short term, get her over the excitement and then retreat to a gentler bit as and when she's more calm.

 

[Chestnut mare]

No I don't use a martingale with her will be worth it until she gets used to cantering in company! She's as good as gold when it's just the 2 of us but she seems to get a bit too much in company! .

 

[hunting mad]

I can sympathise with you.As soon as my mare moves she crosses her jaw so badly i can see it when im sat on her.I have had her all the checks done to rule out pain,although i suspect it may be a habit she has formed down to pain before i had her.
I ride her in a water 3 ring gag and mexican nose band,and can just about hold her in this.....although i still have the occasional moment when she runs away with me.....also i have learnt not to fight her as this makes her worse.Easier said than done!