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I live in northern Florida. I have had my mare a year and a half approximately. In December 2008, she started behaving badly, culminating in an accident where she reared, and I fell off. This year a trainer has been highly involved. The mare has been doing quite well, although she is a very dominant alpha mare. However, starting in December 2009, she started being difficult again. This week she was aggressive when the trainer went to get her from the paddock. When she went to ride her, the mare refused to go forward (same thing as last year). She then reared up. The timing is identical to last year. Is it possible that December/January is a transitional period here in Florida and that this behavior is due to her getting ready to go into heat? My trainer thinks she should be donated and can't be sold. I purchased her last year for $18,000. I want to reveal her background but try to sell her. I want to see if I can find the cause of this behavior.

Last Updated: January 11, 2010

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This is a difficult dilemma. Possible reasons might be: 1. The horse has just got your number and therefore has learned that she can avoid work by rearing and intimidating the rider. 2. This mare might be having some ovarian issues and should be examined by a veterinarian to rule out ovarian cysts, which can be very painful for the horse. The pain is intensified by placing a saddle on the back and loin. 3. This could also be kidney issues. Techniques to be tried would be: 1. Pony the horse with a another horse or donkey. 2. Find another trainer for a second opinion. 3. Consult a veterinarian to address the health issues outlined above. Point of consideration: If you choose to offer her for sale without resolving these issues, it would be unethical not to let a potential owner know of recent occurrences that could jeopardize a new owner's safety, even though we like to think "buyer beware." Rule out any health issues by consulting with your veterinarian and then work toward alternative training methods that might break the habit this mare is developing. If this mare is only being ridden and trained intensely, you might consider trail riding and alternative routines. Ground work and getting back to the basics may be a good way to reduce the stress the mare might be experiencing and bring her back to a desired performance.

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