rearing

Question
Not all the time but it is becoming more frequent, when we try to get our Horse in, a horse in the field will canter upto us and rear, he will then start rearing and trying to bite our horse while we are in the process of putting head collar on.  In the end we have to let him go. our pony doesnt run off with the horse just moves away then we go up and are able to lead him from the field.  Our pony definately isnt wanting to stay with this horse but unlike the other horses in the field this one just wont listen to us, it seems like he is kind of fronting up and threatening us, the rearing is becoming frightening. Why is he doing this? and can we do anything about it? This horse had a problem with rearing in the past, of which owners got proffesional help.

Answer
Hi Julie,
Thank you for writing in with your question.
There are a lot of questions to be asked about the situation. First, what is the horse that is threatening you? Mare, stud, gelding? Is it the alpha horse in the pasture? I take it from your writing, you do not own the horse that is coming at you.
It appears from what I can read, that the horse is an alpha leader in the field and feels like you are taking one of it's herd members away and it has little respect for humans. You say that it is not "all the time but it is becoming more frequent". Your right. And it will get worse and much more threatening. In the end the horse will attempt to hurt you and not just run at you. It is building up it's status as the boss of the field.
Considering that it is NOT YOUR horse you can't just go out there and beat on it to make it stay away. But....you can take a training stick out there and keep it with you. If it starts your way, stand tall...don't back off (that is what it wants you to do). Poke your chest out and look as big as you can look. Look like you own that field!! If it starts toward you. walk toward it in a large posture and wave the stick at it. That should get it's attention. If it stops, then you stop and go about your business but keep an eye out for it out of the corner of your eye. If it approaches again do the same thing only get more threatening. The horse must learn that it is he who must back down and not you. If it gets within striking distance of you, whack it hard anywhere you can reach. But be very careful not to be in striking distance of it's front or hind feet.
I would consider moving your pony to another location so you don't have to put up with the headache. The solution I mentioned is fine unless the owner objects to your actions. Then you have a problem. So moving your pony would be the best option.
Before acting out on my suggestion, I would talk with the owner of the horse first and see if there is a solution that will accommodate all parties involved.
Good luck and please remain safe.