Show nerves (horse)

[alfielola05]

hi everyone, i took my mare to her first show recently and although she behaved impecabbly she was a nervous wreck, wouldnt eat, stood petrified in her stable etc and since is not keen to be caught, in comparison to trotting over to call. My friend (non horsey) said to me today, its obviously not for her. i think in my head that she will get used to it, but now i feel like im being cruel and maybe it isnt for her. thoughts/reasurance anyone?

 

[rockysmum]

Poor girl, could you take her to a few and not actually enter anything. She might actually start to enjoy having a day out.

Our stress head warmblood really enjoyed a couple of days out eating grass in the lorry park and collecting ring.

Our little cob also used to stress when we took her to the three day shows and she had to stay in the temporary stabling. Living in a tent just didn't do anything for her. Again I took to spending time with her outside, letting her graze and watch the world go by. She soon settled and actually enjoyed her weekends away.

 

[Moggy in Manolos]

It is so hard to say, you know your horse best. I think like with people, different horses for different courses as it were.
I would be very concerned at my horse being distressed by such things, as it could have health implications, stress can induce all sorts as we know.
However, it was only your first show and perhaps your horse will become more comfortable with it in time. Perhaps you can work on building your horses confidence up in general with new situations?

 

[be positive]

Could you take her to some lessons or clinics away from home just to get her out more often but without the stress of actually competing. Most horses enjoy going out to parties, it should be a fun day out for them as well as for the rider.
I second going and not competing, if you have anywhere within hacking distance that would be ideal.