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Joan Ranck: Mare Behavioural Problems

Baylady.

We have a 13 year old Tennessee Walking Horse mare named Baylady. We acquired her when she was nine and are her sixth owners.

She is a very loving and intelligent mare but was plagued with behavioral problems (one trainer called it "Precious Body Syndrome"). She exhibited inappropriate and often violent responses to new situations and "scary" things. Exposing her to new things in supportive and calm situations in order to help her overcome her fears did not seem to lessen her response. She seemed unable to change her behavior patterns.

Kim Walnes, an ex-Olympic equestrian team member turned trainer, suggested Robert McDowell. She thought if we could help BayLady discover more suitable reactions that she would break her patterns. After consultation, we began giving her the Nervous Rehabilitation Mix in May.

I attended a Equinetics Clinic the first part of June and everyone who had known BayLady in the past did not believe I still had the same horse. She still initially reacted similarly (but less severe) to "scary" things but then seemed to think to herself "I think I should be afraid, but I forget why." and then calm down. She was also so much more willing to learn because she didn't have to focus on protecting herself, she could focus on what she was learning. She actually collected herself for the first time! Overall, she is a much happier horse and we are much happier horse owners.

Another difference that we have noticed is the change in her coat, mane and tail. She used to have a short, unhealthy mane and tail and "hot spots" on her coat in the summer. She is now growing the long beautiful mane characteristic of Walkers and does not have any bad skin "spots". She is still has the same personality, but has found a way to deal with her problems.

Joan Ranck
USA