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  Discussion on Head tossing
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Posted on Sunday, May 30, 1999 - 7:53 pm:

I have noticed lately in the show arena when the judge asks us to line up my mare shakes and tosses her head. She isn't in any physical pain and this is the only time she does it. Not when we are standing outside of the ring waiting to go in just when we are in waiting to come out. The light isn't in her eyes, no insects, etc. What is causing her to do this annoying habit?

Posted on Wednesday, Aug 2, 2000 - 11:46 am:

My 7 year old thoroughbred gelding constantly rubs his face/mouth on his knee when I ride (english)with a bridle and bit. This happens whether hacking or schooling in the ring. Makes it impossible to have any rhythm in his gaits. Ridden in a hackamore noseband with just the reins attached to the noseband, he is fine. No other problems. Have had teeth and jaw checked by dentist and vet. Teeth floated and hooks, sharp edges removed. No structural problems. Have tried "Happy Mouth" mullenmouth, d-ring snaffle, loose ring snaffle and (worst of all) snaffle with cheek pieces. Any advice?

Posted on Wednesday, Aug 2, 2000 - 1:38 pm:

You were smart to look at all the physical reasons.

Now, have a look at what you are or aren't doing.

Shorten your reins to maintain a steady contact. Be sure you have them in your hand properly - thumbs up, holding the reins against your index fingers. Be sure your elbows are at your waist and your are sitting tall, with long legs. The reason he can stretch down is that he is able to. Your job is to say, "no, not now."

When he goes to stretch, open the front line of your body and sit straighter while urging him forward. If he is unresponsive to your leg, you may need a tap with a crop.

Initially, you will have to do this many times as he is in the habit. Once you are able to trot a distance, walk at your request and reward him by giving him some additional rein length, then repeat.

He does this because he can. It probably bothers him to have the saliva on his mouth. It is up to you to prevent his rubbing, gently and consistently, and keep him working.

Let us know how it goes.

Posted on Saturday, Sep 23, 2000 - 2:41 pm:

To Christine Mills
Thanks for your advice re face rubbing. Also noticed horse chewing feed on one side with head tilted. Vet has since examined mouth again with horse tranquilized. Found small abscesses inside cheeks on both sides. Vet rounded edges of back teeth which were sharp and probably the cause. Vet also advised removing noseband for a while. Face rubbing has diminished a lot. I follow your schooling advice and can generally control what attempts he does make to rub. Also he is chewing normally. We increased his hay and feed, plus added another feeding at night, since he was loosing weight. All seems much better. Thanks.
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