YEARLING NOT STANDING FOR THE FARRIER. TIPS/ADVICE NEEDED!

D

Darrell'n'BamBam

New User
Joined
6 November 2012
Messages
1
Visit site
Bam Bam, my 2 1/2 yo gelding, doesn't really like to stand still for the farrier. Which is normal and expected from a youngster. He was a stallion untill a few months ago :P. but because he's my first pony I'm not too sure on techniques to get him to choose to stand still. We are doing most of his training the Monty Roberts way, through Join-up and stuff, so nothing too harsh.
We've tried holding a Likit to let him lick to distract him (only works for a few minutes), we've tried letting him see what the farrier is doing with his hoof, but no luck. :( . Is it just his age and he'll stand still with age? Or is it because he has still got some stallion behaviour left in him? I need some tips or advice with this please. thanks :D x

-Darrell
 
Last edited:
My mare was the same it takes time to build trust etc richard maxwells book helped me alot! It took 3 people to hold her the first time, neck twitching was very useful, now shes great with farrier and only 3! I used a long feather duster on her lower legs and poll as they were her unkeen areas just holding it in the area until she relaxed, then remove it and reward! My only problem now is bath time!!
 
The key is practise, practise, practise every day. Lift and hold feet, don't let go unless she is being good. Tie up daily for a good period of time and don't fuss if she doesn't stand still, she'll soon learn to once the boredom kicks in! Don't fiddle with her when tied up, only intervene if she is doing something silly / dangerous, other than that get on with your chores and ignore her. My friend did this with her filly from an early age she has always been fantastic with the farrier, can be left tied up for ages (with no hay net) and she just dozes. She is great if you go to a show, ties to lorry sensibly.......... she is only 3.
If you practice every day she will be great next time the farrier comes!
 
Yes , practice everyday is the answer , there is no quick fix ! Lift feet hold for as long as a farrier holds the foot for ( or as long as you can !) , dont forget to lift it forward ( as if onto a tripod ) and use your hoof pick to "hammer" nails in , it will pay off hands down , and your farrier will thank you for it .
 
We are doing this with the babies at the moment.
I was advised to hold the hoof firmly, and upwards so that the horse feels secure. Try to hold the hoof until pony relaxes and then put down on your say so.
 
If your doing join up then I would suggest practicing staight after.
I also find Richard Maxwells - Training Young Horse book really good.
 
one of our youngsters used to fidget unless he was stood parallel to a gate/wall,so we went with that and he is ok anywhere now.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top