by conversett » Fri Mar 10, 2017 11:51 pm
Username: SergeantWinter
Show Name: Endless Wonderlust
Barn Name: Stardust
Answer: After some research I'd make a list of things that could be stressing her out. Being in an unfamiliar place would definitely be a cause, but maybe she could be experiencing pain somewhere that we didn't know about such as issues with her eye sight, or maybe her current diet isn't what she needs like lacking nutrients. She might even be lonely because all her friends are no where in sight. Once the list is completed, I'd start to limit and cross off the things that don't apply to her, or are at least things that don't have any effect on her anxiety. So when I finally get my list of causes, I'd begin to provide solutions. If she misses her friends, I'd try to introduce her to some of my other mares in hopes she can make new ones. This would also provide more exercise for the mare and free-space, because she'd be put out in the larger pastures, and maybe she can let out her hot air. Although I'd be supervising to be sure no one gets hurt. If she was having physically problems, I'd check in with the veterinarian and maybe try out some therapy. I recognize that the mare also doesn't have much training, and I would be sure to work with her everyday. She would need to know that I am her friend too, so once we have bonded I would jump into training. But again, have to be careful not to stress her too much because the last thing I want is for her to become more anxious. That also means that I have to be sure that I am comfortable around her, I can't be anxious around her and must keep a calm presence. And maybe all the attention focused on her might freak her out. So I'd try other methods, like placing a radio near her stall to play soft music, since music influences my mood, maybe it will influence hers as well. But maybe the sounds are overwhelming her and that is what causes the anxiety, or just being inside enclosed areas such as a stall. In which case I'd have to make a run-in pasture for her where she can be outside with a friend all the time, and have shelter from the weather. The possibilities are endless but the bottom line is that I'd try to figure out the source of her problem, and then I'd try to help as best I can. Perhaps this is just how she is and there will be no changing her attitude, but my goal would be to create some sort of stability in her life. Something she can depend on to be there and trust. Whether it is another horse, the radio, medication, quiet space, more activity... whatever she needs I'll try to supply it for her.
