I have a 13 year old gelding that is giving me a problem with going into the arena for any gaming events. I use him in Pleasure, Showmanship, Trail and in gaming rodeo events goats, barrels, & poles. I warm him up by loping circles, small circles, stops & turns & side passing & walks circles next to the arena.
But when my name is called he refuses to go in. I have tried several different things from backing him in to other horses walking him in and even giving treats when he is in. Once he is in he is fine and does what I ask, but this is very frustrating. He walks in beautifully for other events such as pleasure, horsemanship, trail etc. What can you suggest?
I suggest that you are causing the problem. If he walks in for the other events with no problem but changes when it comes time to do the game events, then you are probably getting too tense and ready to run before you get into the arena. Keep your body and mind relaxed but ready to perform and try to transmit that to him as well. The only other thing that it might be is some kind of pain he is experiencing when you ask him to go fast. He may have some joint or muscle problems that only bother him with speed and quick turns. Have your vet check him out thoroughly.
Martha Wright
