stubborn horse

Question
I have a 6 year old paint, and have had her since she was about 6 months old, when i bought her mother. My grandpa loves this horse and will not let me get rid of her but the kicker is he wants to be able to ride her!! i have been riding horse my whole life but have never had a horse that is this stubborn and we have worked with her but nothing works. bits don't phase her she pulls away from them when you try turning her, she doesn't go when you kick her she just stands there, she every once in awhile unexpectedly will buck. i want to break this horse for my grandpa please help there is no reasoning with him, he wants this horse and only this horse.

Answer
Hi Megan

You did not say how long your grandfather had been riding, but it sounds as though this mare is not a good fit for him. From what you say, it sounds like she could be an accident waiting to happen. I would first have the vet check her to make sure that she does not have any medical issues that could be responsible for her behaviors. If she comes up clean, then send her to a trainer for 30 days. The trainer will be able to tell you that A: She needs certain things done to be a good horse for your grandfather to ride or B: grandfather should find this horse another home as she will not be rideable. This way, you do not have to tell your grandfather and he may listen better to a professional Trainer.  If he is still insistent that he rides her, then I would recommend that you start by long lining her in a pen. This way, you can direct her from the ground and keep her moving.

Let me know how it goes.

Lisa