Why does my horse kick all the time?
Horses may mimic behaviors if they see another horse rewarded for similar behavior. In these instances, the kicking behavior is learned and can be somewhat easier to train to stop the excessive kicking. Social interactions may also be the cause of kicking.
How long has my horse been kicking walls?
For five years before coming to this barn, at two different places, he never kicked walls. Soon after arrival at this barn, when I started veterinary school in another state, his kicking started. He has done it off and on for two years.
Why do I have to give my horse a hock injection?
Hock injections are a veterinary procedure in which a long-acting corticosteroid, or hyaluronic acid, is injected into the joint space of a horse’s hock in order to decrease inflammation within the joint and to increase the viscosity (thickness) of the joint fluid.
What’s the best way to train a hot horse?
Trotting can help a horse burn off excess energy without making the horse dull. Pounds says he frequently deals with two types of horses that might be considered hot: those with a playful, energetic attitude, and those that are nervous and jumpy. Those two different horses require different approaches.
What to do if a horse kicks its own leg?
One way to deal with a kicker is ‘kicking chains.’ A short length of the chain is strapped to each hind pastern. The theory is if the horse kicks, it will hit its own legs with the chain, and scare itself out of kicking—a form of self-punishment.
What happens if you kick a horse with a chain?
A few things can go wrong with kicking chains. If it scares itself badly enough, it may exacerbate the problem and to put any boot or wrap on may become an ordeal. Certainly the first time they’re worn, the horse may react violently. Some horses get used to them, and they’re ineffective.
Is it dangerous to ride a horse that kicks?
A horse that kicks can be dangerous to deal with. Even if your horse is merely kicking at a biting fly, and you happen to get in the way, you can be hurt. Some horses develop a bad habit of kicking and are a menace on the ground and while you are riding or driving.
Why does my Mare kick at my stallion?
A mare may kick at a stallion if it is not receptive to being bred. This defensive instinct is why some horses kick when they become alarmed—such as when a person, dog or another animal ‘pops into view’ behind the horse. Or if a piece of equipment comes loose and drags behind or alongside the horse, it may react by kicking at it.