Won't go out into the field again.

[nomdeac]

There is definately something on that path I can't sense but Stella (the filly) can. Last night when coming in she stopped dead looked about 6 foot ahead of her jumped in the air and spun round. She then proceeded to walk in anxious but ok. When we came to turn her out again apparently it had gone and she walked out fine. I don't suppose I'll every know what it is.

[nomdeac]

Mnnn it would seem as though I have trained her to anticipate the field feed too much. She came in wonderfully despite galloping ponies in the paddock beside the path. However when we came to do her work with the umbrella and we'd brought my daughters space hopper for her to look at she seemed distracted and kept trying to get me to go outside towards the field. I think I'd better give her field feed a miss and see how she goes. Any advice?

[shan]

Hmm... yes they do see or sense things we can't - my friend's mare doesn't much like a part of the field, she seems quite happy to stand there but will sometimes rush past the area.
Anyway... back to the field feed... I think what you could try is a few treats when she goes back through the gate in place of her feed, then let her wait a while before feeding her - depending on your time constraints each day I guess, but if she knows she'll get rewarded for going through the gate she should be ok. Then she'll learn she gets her feed a while after too. I'd also try feeding her when she's in, assuming she'll go through the gate for treats. I know alot of horses thrive on strict routine but if she's ok with her feed places and times being different at least there won't be the expectation factor.
That's what I'd do anyway

[nomdeac]

Hi Shan, thank you. She is fed immediately she comes in anyway, but like a true Connemara she is always ready for more. Good idea to wait a while till I give her her field feed, I'll try that and let you know how she gets on.