Question # 130: I have a 5 yo OTTB gelding (10 months off the track) that I would really like to hack out more. However, the few times I have tried, he's been a little anxious in the open field.
The last time I took him on a hack (only walking always), he bolted and left me eating dirt after running for a good minute going down hill. I was nervous to use a pulley rein since I never have before especially on uneven terrain. He is an exceptional, calm, and non-spooky horse in all other situations, and handles everything in stride. I would love some tips on building my confidence to hack out, and how to best handle this situation. I've tried pairing with a calm trail horse, but he seems the same when with or without company. I would also like to know if I should be riding him on loose reins vs on the aids. Thanks! (Anonymous)
Well that's no fun, is it?? It sounds like the poor guy is just very anxious and uncomfortable out in big open spaces. What is his turnout like? If he is currently in a small paddock, you might want to see if you can find him a large field to go in with a calm buddy. That way he can be working on his anxiety in big open spaces the whole time he is out there. Let him live outside if possible. It is such a shame how many race horses never see anything of the world outside of their stalls and the track.
Under saddle, what I would recommend you do is... (Click on Question Title above (in blue) to read full answer)
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