bringing in a new pony

Question
I have two quarter horses, a 10 yr old gelding and an 18 year old mare, and a 14 month thoroughbred.  I have just brought home a 14 month haflinger pony, and all is well except for the 18 yr old mare who kicks and bites the new pony.  Everyone else seems to like her.  How can I deal with this without having to separate the 18 year old quarterhorse?

Answer
Hi Sandy!

It is almost impossible for humans to interfere in herd dynamics successfully.  How do you explain to an old bossy mare she must be nice to the new pony?

You will have to separate the older mare for everyone's safety.  There are numerous ways to do this and still keep the herd happy.  Stagger the times or days you put them out.  Leave the older ones together and turnout the two youngest alone...there are all kinds of clever ways to keep everyone safe and happy.  Just like being a playground monitor, eh?  LOL!

Good luck and remember to always wear an ASTM/SEI approved helmet!

Solange