Question # 234: I recently acquired a 6 year old OTTB that was severely neglected and abused. :( Although he is remarkably improved both physically and mentally, he still has aggressive tendencies towards me...
...When I first got him, you could not touch him past his wither without him pinning his ears and swinging his haunches over to try and kick me. I've done a lot of exercises with him with a halter and lead to get him to respect my space. Some days are better than others at this point, but we still have trouble when currying. I use very soft brushes now and a soft rubber curry comb as well and he definitely likes it better, but when asked to move over or when I brush/curry his haunches, he sometimes pins his ears and tries to kick. This is all done while in cross ties... He is also aggressive during feeding time with me when I go into his pen to give him his supplements. He pins his ears and tries to charge at me. I don't want him to disrespect me and I don't want him to fear me either. Have you ever had any experience with this type of behavior before? I would love any and all advice you have? (Kealy)
Hi Kealy!
First off, good for you for taking on a rescue horse! Unfortunately, horses that haven't been treated well at some point in their life tend to carry those scars with them for a very long time. And while he will likely get better and better as you develop your relationship with him, you will probably always see signs of his past in his behavior. I would recommend that you read this article on the horse/rider relationship, and apply everything you read there to... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)
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