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Quite a lot of horse suffer from separation anxiety. They simply do not like to be separated from the herd. Fortunately, the majority can learn to come to terms with the fact that they will probably see each other again. However, there are horses that are so afraid that it becomes real separation anxiety. And when dealing with a herd animal, it is not a given that it is easy to change. However, with a good amount of patience and the right understanding, it is possible. We have gathered advice from the editorial staff on how to help a horse get rid of his separation anxiety.
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If you want to rid your horse separation anxiety and teach him to be separated from his herd, it is important how you approach it. The first step can be something as simple as calming him down when he is outside the field. But making sure that he can still see his friends. For example you can tie the horse to a nearby tree so that you can so some grooming and relax. That way, you can gradually move the horse further away from the herd.
If the horse is already starting to get restless as you pull it away from the others, give it a few of its favorite treats. That way, you can remove its attention and still show it that the situation connects to something positive. Then you should only stay with it for a few minutes outside the field. Giving some treats, praising it - and then let it onto the field with the other again. When it is completely comfortable being separated from its friends then you can take the step further. Next step could be to experiment with letting it stand on the other side of the field. For a longer period of time.
Once your horse is used to it, you can try to walk it into the stable - where it cannot see the others. Here, too, it needs praise and given treats and only be gone for quite a few minutes - maybe seconds. Over time, you can try to expand the period. If you experience relapses, then it is important to take a step or two back - and find a lot of patience. This is the best way to move trying to deal with the separation anxiety.
There is no doubt that when the horse gradually learns to be isolated from his herd, it is evidence that he trusts his human. In other words, your horse believes that you will take care of it. But it is probably also about building confidence and slowly learning that he will be okay even without his friends - every now and then. He becomes more independent.
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When you let your horse back to the place where you fetched him - choose the right space. If it was in the field when you came to get it, then it is better to let it back out there when you have finished the exercise. Instead of having the herd to come to it, for example by letting the whole herd into the stable. Your horse will be able to perceive this as if the herd is looking for it - when it is not there. But if the horse experiences a completely neutral reaction from the others when it is turned out again, then it knows that it was no big deal to be gone for a while.
Also, when riding, it can be an advantage for the horse to practice being alone. Horses suffering from separation anxiety are more likely to have difficulty leaving the riding arena, riding stable, stable or field. While it may feel uncomfortable to have to provoke the horse's anxiety - it may be necessary in order to build up its self-confidence. By practicing all the situations where the horse is separated from its friends you can strengthen its sense of being able to stand on its own four legs momentarily. In the end it makes the horse mentally strong and confident horse. And you will have a horse who knows that of course it always comes back to its beloved herd again. That way the separation anxiety will not play such a big part.
