paddocks

Question
My 18 year old QH mare was recently put in a paddock with 3 geldings (after sharing a paddock with the same mare for 3 years). I was told the mares were too close and needed to be separated for their safety. She is losing hair and while the vet told me we will keep an eye on her, I am wondering if the the separation and placement with the aggressive geldings may be taking its toll.

Answer
If the two mares were getting along, then I would put them back together. It sounds as though your mare is getting stressed out by the geldings and that can cause her to lose her hair. She could possibly get hurt if she is with an aggressive horse and is unable to get away from him.

Lisa