Pacing is a common behavior in horses and is usually caused by stress or excitement. It can also be caused by medical conditions, injury or improper training. Pacing can be dangerous for the horse and can cause injury or even death if not addressed properly. This article will provide an overview of how to calm a pacing horse, including techniques and strategies to help manage the behavior.
What Causes Pacing in Horses?
Pacing is a behavior in which a horse moves its legs in a repetitive pattern, often in a circular motion. This can be caused by stress, excitement, or medical conditions. Some horses may also pace when they are bored or anxious. Horses may also pace if they are in pain or have an injury. Improper training, poor nutrition, and inadequate exercise can also cause pacing.
Signs of Pacing
When a horse is pacing, it will usually show some signs of distress. It may be agitated and difficult to control, or it may be sweating and breathing heavily. The horse may also have an increased heart rate, rapid eye movements, and tense muscles. It may also be resistant to cues from the rider or handler, and may be difficult to move in a straight line.
How to Calm a Pacing Horse
Pacing can be dangerous and it is important to address the behavior quickly and effectively. Here are some tips for calming a pacing horse:
1. Remove the Cause of Stress
The first step to calming a pacing horse is to identify and remove any sources of stress or excitement. This may include removing the horse from the situation, changing its environment, or providing a distraction.
2. Provide Reassurance and Comfort
It is important to provide reassurance and comfort to the horse. This may include speaking to the horse in a calm and soothing voice, offering treats, or rubbing its neck and back.
3. Use Groundwork Exercises
Groundwork exercises are an effective way to help a horse to relax. These exercises can include walking around the horse, teaching it to back up, or teaching it to stand quietly.
4. Teach the Horse to Respond to Pressure and Release
Teaching the horse to respond to pressure and release is an important part of calming a pacing horse. This involves applying pressure to the horse and then releasing it when the horse responds appropriately.
5. Use Desensitization Techniques
Desensitization techniques can be used to help the horse become calmer and less reactive. This may include introducing the horse to new objects or situations, or teaching it to respond to touch.
6. Provide Exercise
Exercise is important for calming a pacing horse. This can include walking, trotting, or cantering.
7. Provide Appropriate Nutrition
Proper nutrition is essential for calming a pacing horse. Make sure the horse is getting enough calories, vitamins, and minerals.
8. Seek Professional Help
If the pacing behavior persists or worsens, it is important to seek professional help. A qualified veterinarian or trainer can provide guidance and advice on how to properly manage the behavior.
Conclusion
Pacing is a common behavior in horses and can be caused by stress, excitement, or medical conditions. It is important to identify the cause of the behavior and take steps to address it quickly and effectively. Techniques such as removing the cause of stress, providing reassurance and comfort, using groundwork exercises, teaching the horse to respond to pressure and release, using desensitization techniques, providing exercise, providing appropriate nutrition, and seeking professional help can all help to calm a pacing horse.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your horse is calm, safe, and happy.