27 August 2008 11:13
I’ve taken on a 20-year-old Cleveland Bay x who jumps out of his field when left alone.
I knew this when I got him but I’m worried in case he gets on a road. I’ve looked into moving him to another yard, but the fences there are no better. He gets in a real state if isolated, so what can I do to help him stay calm?
Answer
By Your Horse
Instructor Jane Vargerson replies:
Because of his age, you may not be able to change him. It sounds as though it’s not always possible for him to have company – can you liaise with the owners of the other horses at your yard? If you offer to bring in their horse along with yours, they may offer to turn yours out along with their own, so he always has company.
You’ve mentioned moving yards. I think that if you consider moving him, your main criteria needs to be access to 24-hour grazing in a large group so that, even if one horse comes in, he still has company. Failing that, ask if your yard staff will bring him in for you – this could end your problems as he can be brought in before the field is completely empty.