Q.
Hi Chelsie,
I have a question. I have a 9 year old Arabian gelding that I got almost four years ago. He was starved and pretty much a wild horse. I have taken it slow with him so as not to not make him more scared of people. The thing is, when I get on him he bolts. I have tried the one rein stop and everything else that has been mentioned to me. If you could give me some advice I would greatly appreciate it.
Thanks and have a wonderful day,
Lisa Wenetschlaeger from Tulsa, OK
A.
Hello Lisa,
Yes, the one rein stop is what you need when he is bolting; and yes, improving his lateral flexion and one rein stop will make you safer.
But, my advice is:
Desensitize, Desensitize, Desensitize, Desensitize, and more Desensitizing!!!!!
Bolting is a fear response. Horses have a flight or fight instinct. Most of the time horses go to the flight instinct, but if they feel cornered, they will fight their way out. When your horse bolts, he is going to his natural instinct of flight. In order to overcome this, he needs you to do lots of desensitizing and confidence building.
When you get on, can he stand still the whole time? While walking, trotting, and cantering can you rub his neck and bottom? While on the ground, can he stand still and trust you? Can he trust you enough to stand confidently while you fling a rope all around on him, over his back, and around his legs, etc. etc. etc? Practicing those things is what is going to solve your problem.
Thanks for the question,
Chelsie Kallestad
www.chelsienaturalhorsemanship.com
928-713-3468
