While it is nice if your horse comes when called, it is more important that you will be able to approach and catch/halter your horse without her running away. We would recommend building rapport with your mare by approaching her in the pasture several times a day, haltering her, and then giving her a treat, spraying with fly spray, leading her in for dinner, or whatever other task you need to do. Then, ending on a positive note, turn the mare loose. You can then begin to approach without going all the way to the horse, call her name, and ask her to come to you. Be careful not to give too many treats, however, as you don't want your horse always to expect something. This can lead to poor behavior such as biting. Here is the link to some educational videos on catching and working with your horse on the ground.
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When I first got my horse, she was great about coming in the barn to her stall to be fed. Now, since it has been hot outside, she won't come into the barn when called, even if she isn't going to be ridden. I have tried treats, sweet feed, etc. She comes in the barn when we are not in the barn, for water or to get in a stall out of the sun. I have to find a way to correct this so I can spray her for flies, saddle her, etc. Any suggestions?
Last Updated: June 21, 2010
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