So daughter’s horse has issues standing tied to the trailer. He doesn’t tie fast, which is fine, because we use clips with everybody. But he’s figured out how to slip out of his halter and go get the good grass. He doesn’t go far, but obviously this is a problem. He’s electric fence trained at home, but I’m not sure what to do about being away. Do I just suck it up and buy a portable charger? Can horses that use the lead rope to take off their halter pull the same trick in a rope halter? If I knew for sure he’d stay behind step in posts and a piece of tape I’d do that, but without it being hot, I dunno. I’m not sure what to do. Help!
Without your horse tying fast I’m not sure the right solution, except for sure an electric fence, which seems small price to pay if he’ll respect it. (though I’ve seen agitated and/or determined horses escape out of electric more than once at endurance rides. One moment of zap for an adventure seems worth it to them!) What about hobble training?
I wouldn’t tie a horse that won’t tie fast with a rope halter. I use a rope halter for everything else, but for overnight mine goes on a high-tie in a wide padded halter (non-breakaway though) or neck collar.
Mine, who slips halters but more for fun/exploring, has been successful with a neck collar on a trailer high-tie, he can’t get the leverage to pull back.
And make sure he has some good ID on him, as you never know when the good grass is farther away! Good luck!
I have a pony can get out of any halter. Rope, leather, breakaway, nylon, tight, loose, perfect fit, she’ll get out of it. She also has next to no respect for an electric fence. We have one and most of the time it’s fine but every now and again she’ll get it into her to take down over a quarter of the fence and end up in the other field. The only thing she respects in a solid fence. Have you looked into portable corrals? That might work, it does for mine. I also agree about always having ID on a horse who likes getting out. Mine has a micro chip, a dog tag on her halter, and whenever we are off property she has a neck collar.
Got a neck collar when I picked up the kids from school. I have literally never seen this horse so chill when he’s on human time. He he’s always easy to handle, but this is chill on a whole new level. It’s like a switch flipped in his brain. The daughter and I are going to hang out and watch him while we do evening chores, but it looks like we might be getting somewhere.
Late to this post, but rather than tie to the trailer, why not park him inside with man door open for air? Safer than having him leave!
He stands by the trailer like a pro now, even in a halter. A friend, a haynet, and miles sorted everything out.
