29 August 2008 08:59
My pony has become headshy. It may be coincidence, but this started after an electric current was added to the top strand of wire in his field. I have to leave a headcollar on so I can catch him, although he is easier in the stable and does not jerk away when I put the bridle on.
He was diagnosed as a headshaker, but improved after some deep muscle treatment. His teeth have been rasped and his tack fits well. Can you help?
Answer
By Your Horse
TTeam Practitioner Claire Marr replies:
It sounds like your pony has been caught up in the electric fence.
Ponies who are headshy and difficult to catch often have tension in the back and poll, so it may be worth getting his back checked again.
And I have worked with a headshy horse, who was later diagnosed with ear mites.
Horses react to pain and the memory of pain, so I would start by doing some TTouch on his tail, which can help with tightness through the neck and back, and can relax the horse.
● Rotating the tail Stand beside the horse and pick up the tail with one hand two-thirds of the way down the tailbone, and the other hand supporting the tail underneath, about eight inches from the top. Gently push the tail inward and upward with your right hand, creating an arch. Rotate several times in each direction.
● Flexing the tail If it’s safe to do so, stand behind your horse and place both hands gently around the tail with your fingers under the tailbone, thumbs on top. Gently flex the bone back and forth.
● Hair slides Take some hair from the top of the tail in each hand. Slide your left hand down the hair, right off the end, then do the same with your right hand. Repeat this down the length of the tailbone. This is very relaxing for your pony. Also try hair slides on the mane, starting at the base and going all the way up.
● Try stroking his ears slowly from base to tip with a gentle but firm pressure. Make a small circle on the ear tip using your finger and thumb. This area is the shock point, and can help lower the pulse and respiration.