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Horse bucking

20 17:20:23

Question
I bought my horse about 6 months ago. He was thin when i bought him but he is looking good now. I used to ride all the time and he was perfect.He has started bucking and rearing as soon as i get on him but he does not do it all the time. After a few minutes he settles down however he sticks his tongue right out to the side and tries to put it over the bit and tosses his head around. I ride in a continental. I got his teeth filed 1 week ago and they said they where really bad and had cut his gums. I took him out today for the first time in a week and he still bucked and played up when i got on him. Help

Answer
Hi Julie,
I'm sorry for being so late in getting back to you. Both my computers have been down and in the shop. But I'm back now.
The first thing I would check is your horse's health. He could have developed a medical condition that is hurting him. Have your vet come out and give him a good health check. Next I would check for proper saddle fit. I assume you are riding in the same saddle as before the problem, but it doesn't hurt to check, Going back to the health problem...I would have his teeth checked. A bad tooth, hooks on his teeth or a mouth ulcer could cause pain and the result would be as you described. I would also suggest for now, that you try using a simple O-ring or D-ring snaffle. It is simple and doesn't have alot of moving parts on it. Also, try making sure your head stall is fitting as it should. Have patience and work slow with him. Don't give up on him. If you still have problems, I suggest you find a good trainer and have the trainer work with him to find the problem and correct it. No need in putting yourself in harms way. Good luck, stay safe and enjoy your time with your horse.