behavior problems

Question
Hey there,
I have a 16 year old mare that we got from somebody that had been abandoned there. The horse has had some training it seems, because she is used to people and knows some ground work, but she has a major problem with throwing her head up, pacing in her stall, and pinning her ears back when I go near her when she's eating. She also has a problem with putting the halter on, she hates it. That's where the throwing the head up problem comes up. What should I do to break these habits? Also do you know what a good quality, low priced fencing would be? Thanks!  

Answer
Hello,
My best guess is that she hasn't been around people who are dependable.  It seems to me that she has been abused, she is head shy.  Horses like this have usually been hit and jerked around around their head.  I think the pacing and ears back is caused because of her hormones.  I have a filly that won't let you near her while she is eating.  She is very defensive of her feed.  For breaking this habits, you can be careful and considerate when you are handling her for the tossing of her head.  When she is eating I would just leave her alone, it's better for you to be safe than hurt.  You might try leaving her outside instead of in a stall.  She might prefer more space.  For fencing, you might try electric tape or rope.  You may also try diamond mesh fencing with tape or even wood for your top rail. Hope this helps, any more questions just ask.
Kathryn