Leading!

[Emma_G_NZ]

Hi-
I have a 21 year old pony and every now and then-When he knows something exciting is going to happen he sometimes Rears and bucks on the lead rope!It really scares me and I want to get it out of him-But i dont think he has the respect for me.Also-He wont go out on the road-He just starts rearing and once you get him past the rearing he will jig-jog-Hes alright in his paddock but I am getting bored of just going round and round in the paddock.He's such a nice pony on the ground I just love him so much!I cant take him to shows because when you try to get him on the float he bucks and rears-And when you go to let him out and bucks and careers around like a bronco!I am not a confident rider but would like some advice of getting him out of his bad habits.
Thanks!
Emma

[Wally]

This sounds like you need professional help on the ground to help you with your wayward senile deliquent.

You need to enlist someone who can watch the two of you together and see where the problem lies.

What you describe could be caused by a hundred and one things. Without seeing the two of you working together it's impossible to make a sound judgment.

Get some horse psychology videos and watch them for an insight on how to be more positive and assertive around him. These will also help you learn to look for the warning signs and signs of submission and how you should react to them.
Read plenty and try to get someone to help with his behaviour.

[Sharon H]

I agree with Wally. One of the problems that you have is that because you don't do much with him, he becomes very excited when you try and that in turn puts you off doing anything with him, it's a vicious circle! I think you could both do with some experienced person to help you, once your pony has started getting out and about, he won't be so excited about it all and you should be able to cope with him better. Good luck.