10yo Arabian pony out of Sir Gindi-throwing himself down

Question
Hi Solange, thank you for a great website.  I have a 13.2hh arabian gelding pony cross that was going really well for a young rider but for some reason has decided to have what I would call a temper tantrum episode.  He is agisted with a trainer/instructor but each time the trainer (well respected, natural horsemanship) tries to climb into the saddle the pony begins to literally throw himself on the ground and wont get up.  Keith then lounged the pony until he gives and then was able to ride sweetly but after a break the 'throwing himself down' even though it would probably hurt him, begins again.  I thought perhaps it could be a physical condition (I have banned the young girl who borrowed him from riding him again until 'or if' we can sort him out).  He has his teeth done, has a well fitted Bates saddle and has not had a serious change of diet)and has been chiropractically checked.  

I think the trainer/instructor (Keith) thought I may have drugged the pony because in the past couple of weeks he was so beautifully behaved (I would never even consider that especially with a young rider).  Do you have any ideas of what might be happening with him.  I also thought he may be bored (very intelligent - usually) with ongoing routines.  Any help you can give would be appreciated in regards to this issue.  In every other way he is very sweet, follows you around, head dropped at every opportunity for a scratch and cuddle.  Where are you based at?  Have you ever heard of this behaviour before? Thank you, Jennifer

Answer
Hi Jennifer!

Believe it or not, I have seen this before.  It was a very high-strung OTTB mare.  

You did not say how long you have owned this pony or if he did it to a previous owner and that's why they sold him.

In any event, this is now your pony's "thing".  Some are rearers, buckers, spinners or what-have-you....it is firmly imprinted in their heads and is brought out as a defense mechanism.

Can it be fixed.  No.  Not in my opinion.  This is a real mental defect.  You might be able to bury it deep down in him but, he will pull it out again one day and probably at the most inopportune time because he is feeling stressed.

A show, or a difficult lesson or if his schedule is varied to his displeasure....all these things could bring it right back to the surface and he will just act out.

You say he is kind otherwise.  Maybe he could have a job that does not include riding.  Or try driving him, see if he likes that better.

Attempting to stick a square peg into a round hole never works with horses (or men!)  I believe he is telling you in the strongest terms possible he does not want to be a riding partner.  To continue to try could make the problem worse and really fry his brain or hurt someone.

Re-purpose him to something he will do happily.  He is your responsibility and while he may not be doing what you intended him for, he could still be useful for something else.

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

Solange