Are you sure it is a tantrum, and not some sort of separation issue? The reason I ask is that, if the source of the problem is uncertainty or anxiety, then getting after him might make the situation worse, not better.
However, I did have to deal with some rearing problems with Caisson a while ago. His problem was that he was in great shape, but on handwalking from a blow to the splint / tendon area, it was February, cool, and he had more energy than he knew what to do with.
Basically - I worked on his leading manners. He had to lead *exactly* in the "proper" position. No forging ahead, no stopping to smell interesting things, no pulling me over for a tasty patch of grass. Any deviations got him a smart rap on the nose with the rope halter, and I would back him up 3, 5 or 10 feet.
It was only after I started this that I discovered that we had some basic issues as to who was in charge. He thought he was. :)
He tried stuff - bolting, then rearing, spooking and bolting.... Each time he got a strong correction with the rope halter, then backed up and made to stand. If he was really wound up, I would talk quietly too him until he settled down, then start again.
I remember trying to lead him around the track. I think we had 2 "bolting" and 2 "bolt & rear" episodes within 100 feet at the "spooky" end of the property. I rapped him with the rope while he was up in the rear, with a strong "AH!" or "NO!", then backed him about 10 feet each time. Second time around, it was 2 episodes. Third time around - he walked. (BTW - we had a similar scenario riding him, but the Myler correctional port helped tremendously there).
I made a few other changes, too. When I turned him out in the turnout, he was not allowed to duck out of the halter and blast off. If he did, I would go collect him, put the halter on, bring him back to the gate, turn him loose again, until he waited for an OK, or he walked off. When giving him his supplements - I no longer let him stick his head in while I'm still mixing the dry with the beet pulp. He has to stay back and wait until I tell him OK.
If your problem isn't a "who's in charge" issue, this might not help.
On Nov 10, 2008, at 12:41 PM, Ranelle Rubin wrote:
OK Ridecampers..here is a question that will likely start a new thread. I need some help in managing my gelding's tantrums.
He got way excited, started calling back toward his brother (who was doing the same)..and then REARED..BIG! If I had been less aware, I would be typing this from the hospital. He was uncontrollable!
I was ticked. I threw his butt in the trailer, hauled a couple miles away and rode him out from there..he was perfect. We did about 15 miles of sand wash training.
OK, so now what? Do I get on him, and just hope he maintains his sanity or what? I have a bit of courage issue right now..he is one big, solid pack of muscle..I really need to get him to the point where he will leave his brother safely. It was really a tantrum!! It reminded me of a teenage boy.
