28 August 2008 16:30
A few weeks ago my horse was wearing his loose-ring fulmer snaffle when it got caught on the stable door and cut the corners of his lips. He now hates it when I put the bit in his mouth, but is quite happy once it is in.
I have checked his bit and there are no sharp areas, so it must be the incident with the stable door that has made him so wary. How can I help him overcome his fear?
Answer
By Your Horse
YRC Instructor Alison Ritchie replies:
I’m sure your horse’s fear does stem from getting his bit caught on the door. Horses are not quick to forget things like this, but they are retrainable!
Try tempting him with a titbit so his focus is on the treat rather than the bit. Encourage him to lower his head and seek the bridle, just as he would when being ridden. Use this as a regular training exercise, taking great care not to hit his teeth or catch his mouth in the process. Always reward his good behaviour.Avoid a repetition of the accident with the bit by never leaving him in the stable wearing his bridle. Once his confidence builds up again he should start to relax and become easier to handle.