Tips for getting nervous pony to trot!

[kellybee]

We've recently taken on an 11.2 very nervous boy for our kids to grow into. He's had a rough time in the past and is nervous of people, although he's getting much MUCH better. The kids don't bother him at all and he's great with me, t the ponit where he'll now trail me round the field as I poo-pick. We've overcome several issues in the month he's been with us, ie being shy to catch, wouldn't pick his feet up etc. He's 7yrs old and has done PC activities off the lead etc with no issues, but was badly treated between that home and this.

The kids have been doing lead rein gymkhana at home with no issues in walk, but for the life of me I can't get him to trot! Not even in hand in a headcollar! He just walks faster then refuses to break trot. He's sound, has no lameness, back issues or otherwise but I don't want to bully him or use a stick if I can help it when he's had such a rough time in the past. Any pointers on encouraging him without bullying would be much appreciated I can't figure out why he won't trot in hand either. Any pointers?

 

[Clodagh]

Could you lead him off another horse? With no one on board him and then go for a trot somewhere straight. I should think when he does trot he will leap into it, so unridden may be the way to start.

 

[kellybee]

I only have a little shetland and a 15.2 standie/ ex-trotter so that could be difficult (Big un tends to really open up on grass). Maybe will take them down the lane and have my helper lead shetland so he picks up on the command with her beside him.

Thanks ever so

 

[Irishbabygirl]

What about on the lunge?

 

[kellybee]

Because he's so nervous I didn't want to use a lunge whip - he's fine being rubbed all over with a long schooling whip but I don't want to send him backwards by frightening him

 

[showpony]

Have you tried getting someone to stand behind him & whoosh him on, waving their hands etc? Also use the same command over & over again - basically the same approach you would take to any horse trotting up in hand - they practice it coming in from field, going out to field etc....

Also have you had his back checked & saddle fitted correctly just to rule out pain?

Because he's so nervous I didn't want to use a lunge whip - he's fine being rubbed all over with a long schooling whip but I don't want to send him backwards by frightening him