Agressive Horse When Brushed or Touched

by Abi
(United Kingdom)

Hi I have a 5 year old, 16.3hh, chestnut Warmblood. about 2 years ago, he had a severe allergic reaction to a change in feed. (his skin became hot and uncomfortable- no lumps or anything) It took me too long to realize it was an allergy, he began to bite and be aggressive when he was brushed or touched. Because I did not understand, I listened to others and hit him when he displayed aggression or bit. The allergy is now resolved,we have come quite a way since the initial allergic reaction, but he still objects to being brushed and touched. He also expects aggression from me when he objects and defends himself by threatening to bite or kick. I don't hit him for this now, and am aware that any sudden movements I make are interpreted by him as a threat.I would welcome any advice on how to work with him to move forwards and improve our relationship.

Answer:

Thank you for your inquiry. I'll do my best to help you with the information you have given but since I'm not there to witness the behavior it may take a few discussions from us both to unravel the whole thing.

So here goes: The first event that comes to mind is your horse has made an association (unwanted from us) about being touched and groomed. His experience tells him that touching and grooming is associated with pain (of his body first) then the unpleasantness of reactions in the past from the human and feels very defensive about it. These association can happen really fast sometimes. Another example would be say you are putting a saddle on a horse for the very first time. The moment you place it up on their back a big BANG noise happens from the distance at the exact time. An animal would inadvertently associate the saddle with the loud noise which frightened them. So they would easily associate the saddle with fright. In your case and depending upon how many times he was reprimanded for defending himself will depend upon the time for you to create a new association. And earn his trust again.

I too have a horse who suffers from allergies which makes her skin very, very sensitive. Here is where I would start. First purchase a new brush (new will have no previous scent) and the absolute softest grooming brush you can find. But put it aside for a bit. Being brushed is one thing but being touched in general could be quite another. Was there ever a time he allowed it? Before his allergies perhaps? By being aggressive with him could have initiated his thinking that he must defend himself to all humans. Will he let anyone else touch him?

This would be a situation where you would need to develop more trust from him. He needs to know that he is safe with you not on guard through fear.

Setting up a new association. Start with taking him to a comfortable place (for him) where you can offer him a special meal (add something that you know he really likes, maybe a few carrots, or oats but also fibre that takes him at least 10 to 15 minutes to eat). He must be comfortable meaning if he doesn't like being too far from other horses then make sure he can see his buddies. Offer this meal while just standing next to him. Do nothing at first. Yip, we want to create an association of good food with just your presents. Do this at least three times before moving on. Discover how close or how far away you need to be to make him feel comfortable and no sudden movements on your part. Tell him that you are sorry for the past and you did not mean to harm him. He will forgive you. Be consistent and create a routine of this. On the fourth time, stroke him softly with your hands. On the fifth time, stroke him with the brush and then your hand until you can work it up to where the soft brush is as nice as your stroking with your hands.

The number of times can vary, go with your gut, if you think you can move on sooner do so. But be prepared to back up a step too if needed.

Your goal is to think in terms of and pretend a little that you just brought home this new horse and you would like to establish a friendly relationship and get to know each other intimately.

A 5 year old horse is really still a youngster in many ways. They pick up information really quickly which is good and bad. You just discovered the bad, so the best thing to do is add tons and tons of good information on top of the bad to eliminate the old learnt behavior.

I am also sorry to hear about the bad advice you received from others regarding hitting him for this. As you have now witnessed it didn't help but hinder your relationship.

Elaine