Kicking

[chickflick1066]

My mare never used to kick, yet recently she's been more inclined to kick out with the back legs then usual. She's always been reluctant for me to raise her back hooves for de-picking, but anytime I down by her back end, she'll raise a leg whilst grooming or even kicking out when I do her leg straps up.

She won't kick another horse 'just because' but will buck at the behind horse if they get right up her bum.

It could either be an extra strong season, or misbehaving. Either one, I really don't want it to continue and would rather nip this in the bud asap.

Thanks :)

[KateWooten]

No, you really don't want this. I'm not sure what to suggest to cure it - she mustn't kick when you're around her - that's a respect issue if you make sure she knows it's not acceptable, then she does anyway, then you need to work on her respecting you and your leadership.

I had to clean my little mare's 'bag' today, she's really touchy there because she gets bitten to death - can hardly blame her. So I'm having to go through this with her. She feels the soapy cloth on her, and lifts a leg as if to kick - so far she has only stamped her foot, but she is a kicking mare by nature. I make sure I have my head real close up against her side and just my near hand is down there. Also, I have a lead rope on her, in my outside hand, but round the back of me. This means if she does go to kick I can spin her back end away from me pretty quick - and then put her to work. She has to realise that ok, it feels nasty, but she knows I'm caring for her, and it's more work to protest than just to stand quietly.

[crazystevie]

I definately wouldn't put up with it - in season or not! My mare used to be like this, but it's been overcome.

First of all do some exercises to make sure she respects your space - backing up etc., yielding hindquarters and front end. WHen she moves away from you leave her alone. This will help with any respect issues.

When she does go to kick, make her work! Every time she threatens, make her move around, turn her around lots, in a strong positive manner. Then let her stand, until she realises that when she stands quietly, she can be left to relax. Once you've stopped making her move, let her just stand alone fir a minute, than continue with whatever yur doing - grooming etc.

As it's a new problem, sometimes (and I don't agree with smacking!), a firm tap on the bum immediately when it happens, is enough to sort it out.

[Kris R]

You use a false arm/hand, get a broom stick or a bamboo pole from the garden centre and tie a padded glove or glove and sleeve to one end.

When you bring your mare in, don't tie her up but gently introduce her to the arm as she stands near you . Make sure there is nothing near you which can get in the way or get knocked over etc. All you want to do is get her to accept 'your' false arm on the parts she tolerates and move it to the parts she is not so keen on. Keep it low to the ground and touch her legs with it and move it away. Be prepared for her to object, say nothing just place it there and if she reacts you keep it there until she stops and then you take it away. This is her reward. You may end up with her going round in a circle this is OK, just remain calm and follow.

Just a little each day and increase the periods of contact when you can see she is relaxed and not getting worried.

All you do is keep repeating this until she ignores it all together then you can use your real arm. Timing is important.