spooky in the wind?

[westernriderH]

leading my horses in today, it was windy and i think there was some building work going on down the road, as there were lots of strange noises from there...as we got closer to the stables, something spooked them and they span round but i didn't let go...they did this again when i was about to tie one up, and i had to let go of the other one. Got him back, he only trotted away and then stood all on edge, but my question really is how do you stop them being so spooky in windy weather? It's quite difficult dealing with two horses spooking at the same time, and i never know when they're about to do it. Any tips? Cookies if you got this far

 

[popsicle]

Don't think you can stop them really. Their hearing is affected so they feel more vulnerable to attack by horse eating tractors, bins, cycles, cream cakes (cream cakes?) sorry diet getting to me. LOL.

Seriously though, they are all more spooky in the wind. xx

 

[YorkshireLass]

Go out as often as possible in windy weather!

 

[westernriderH]

Well they're always out in windy weather, that's the thing

I think I'm overreacting, as I rode one of them and he was fine...I don't know

 

[popsicle]

You really can't windproof them. Just avoid going out if its really windy it's the only way. xx

 

[Daphnelia]

Both my horse and pony live out all year (the pony has lived out all her life) and she still gets very wound up when its windy. The horse is much better, but then he is exceptionally quiet for his breeding (anglo) so I guess what I'm saying is I don't think there is any way of helping it - sorry! What I find helps with control, is a rope headcollar and a long rope - I picked up a 12 ft one in the sale - as then when they spook you've got greater control and more chance of holding onto them. I also use a neckstrap in windy weather!

 

[westernriderH]

Thanks for all the advice

I have to say, I rode one in the wind, and I took them both back out to their field together and they weren't too bad, it's just one of those things I guess.

 

[scotsmare]

OMG we have permawind here - it's a nightmare - particularly with the babies! I couldn't actually count how many times I literally wore the 3yr old as a scarf last winter every time she spooked.....

 

[RachelB]

There isn't much you can do about windy weather. My friend tells me it's something to do with the horse not being able to hear potential predators... I'm rather tempted to use some ear plugs on Berlin! Maiden needed it today too, she is usually 101% laid-back but had a paddy today during her (strict) walk work as the cricketers yelled just as the horses behind the hedge cantered past... neeeeearly lost her

Gloves are my best suggestion for windy days - for leading, riding, and keeping your hands warm!