Riding a new horse

Question
Lans,
My father had sulky race horses, so I have never really been exposed to western riding. I recently went to buy 2 miniature horses for my farm. Housed with them was a 4 yr old riding horse.  She has not been riden is 8-10 months, she became very upset when I took the other 2 horses.  She had a split front hoove, which has been treated by one of the best farriers in my area. She at first would not leave the other horses, I can now after 3 weks get her to go to another field on a lead rope and walk with me. If I take one of the others out, she becomes very upset and hits at the fence.  My husband had been raised with horses.  He said I should not try to ride her for aleast 2 more months since she has corral rot. I guess that means she will try to go back to the other horses.  I really want to help this horse get over its separation anxitey. Do you have any ideas, and when should I try to ride her?  She will let me saddle and bridle her.  Thanks in advance for your help.

Sally

Answer
Hi Sally;

It's called 'herdbound', which is normal behavior for a horse.  The horse is a herd animal and depends on the herd for safety and survival.  

Essentially, you need to wean this horse from the herd, like you would a foal from it's dam.  Then you need to become the leader of the new herd (of you and her).  When you've done that, then she'll be ready for you to ride.

It might very well take you 2 months, but there's no way to know for sure how long it'll take for you to bond with her and for her to become confident in you, that you'll take care of her and won't lead her into trouble.

Keep working at it.  It sounds like you're on the right track.

Sincerely,

Lana Reinhardt