My Horse Spooks and Bolts – What Can I Do?!

Where there’s a Will there’s a Way … (so long as you keep yourself safe)

Forgive the preamble but when I first got Pie (19 years ago!) he was just like this!  I remember saying to Monty I’d somehow ‘acquired’ this 15hh coloured pony (long story) but what was I going to do with him?  And he said ‘the horse will tell you’.  Bit woo, and I remember also stating it was a non-negotiable that this coloured pony would come on tour with us because I didn’t want to leave him behind. Monty was perfectly happy about this, but again left it up to me, what could he do in a demo?  In those early days it was just me leading this (very expressive) little horse round a hastily put together obstacle course.  What was particularly good was it was very relatable to the audience. It actually developed into what is now called Horse Agility, although we called it Spook Busting then.

We did 7 demos on that tour and he went from super spooky to old hand. It was onwards and upwards from then on!

I totally appreciate that dealing with a horse that spooks and bolts can be challenging.  Also, that not everyone is able to go on tour with Monty Roberts to help their horse overcome these fears!  However …  with patience and consistent training and I’d suggest a little help from your friends, I think there’s every chance you’ll be able to get your horse calm and safe on rides.  Here’s what I’d do:

Start with the Problem Solving Procedure (as outlined in the IH Online Horse Psychology course)

Start at the beginning.  Firm foundations and all that.  What’s going on?  I’d look at the possible influences of pain, feed, exercise, environment, training and how the rider might be feeling and dealing with this anxious horse. 

While you’re still in the training stage, if your horse is safe to ride out in company I wouldn’t go out on my own for the time being to avoid the issues at this stage.  If your horse is nervous and the other horse has to go first, then ask the other rider if you can go back and forth past the ‘scary object’ a couple more times, finish with everyone’s pulse rate low.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch …start to work on groundwork exercises to establish trust and communication.  Every horse should be able to back up easily at the very least.  If he truly can’t back up, then it could be time to get the vet in to examine him (or her) to see if there’s something more sinister going on.  

Here’s an initial money saving idea – video the horse trotting away from you.  Watch the video – I find it easier to see if a horse is unlevel on screen.  You can watch it several times over, even put it in slow motion*.

Another lameness check, if you have suitable facilities and you and your horse are capable, is to film him trot in a circle and then see him trot to canter on both reins.  Can he do this easily and smoothly?  If not it may  be another red flag that you need to get a specialist equine vet to examine him.

Have you noticed Specific Triggers?

I’ve never felt comfortable with the term desensitisation.  I mean really – who wants a desensitised horse?!  We do want them to accept some of the crazy things in our modern world though.  I think there are less plastic bags in hedges than there used to be (thankfully) but as well as the things you know about there’s always going to be the odd surprise. So it’s time to use your imagination!  Get building some obstacles, ideally with a little help from your friends,   

Start small and work your way up. This is relevant to many different challenges. Start with the object or situation at a distance where your horse feels safe, and slowly decrease the distance over time. Avoid you or your horse getting overwhelmed at any stage.

Remember the calmer you are the more likely it is your horse will stay calm.  Breathe! Slow breathing, in through the nose, long outbreaths through the mouth will fool your brain that you’re calm and so it actually becomes a reality. 

What we call ‘Acceptance Training’ 

Even if you’re given a horse, a 5-stage vetting is crucial for insurance purposes and to avoid unforeseen veterinary bills. A thorough vetting can prevent costly surprises and ensure you’re prepared for horse ownership.

Horsemanship Essentials – Phobia Of Cows

Exclusive Members-Only Video: Log-In To View

Meet Calypso, a horse with a deep phobia of cows. Watch as Monty Roberts gently introduces a cow into the arena, helping Calypso work through her fear using his renowned Join-Up® techniques. With the added insight of a heart rate monitor, you’ll not only see but hear live how Calypso responds to stress—a fascinating and educational experience for any horse owner.

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Don’t be Alone

If you’re lucky enough to have an Intelligent Horsemanship Trainer in your area, then give them a call or message for help!

Stay in touch with the Intelligent Horsemanship organisation – we are here to help and there is so much to learn.

*Sue Palmer, aka TheHorsePhysio can be booked for online horse assessments and recommendations

Definitely do the IH Online Horse Psychology course!