I received this question from pawsandclaws.

Q: I have a Quarter Horse mare named Sundance and she is very good. She gets bored easily and naps. Not sleeping, but standing-and-not-moving napping. It's not that bad, but do you have any ideas?

A: First of all, do you ignore Sundance, or not use her much? It is so easy to get caught up in other sports and simply feed and water your horses, and maybe brush or ride them every once in a while. Sundance could be bored, so she sleeps since she has nothing else to do. If you don't have another horse to keep Sundance company, then try to get another animal. Goats and even cats can be friends with horses. I know my horses let our cats rub on their legs and play in their hay. If you can't get another animal, then try buying a big rubber ball that Sundance can kick around and play with. Even old buckets (take of the handles so their legs don't get caught up in them) work for horses to kick around and chew on. They also make hanging balls that taste like apples/fruit that horses love to nibble on. If Sundance is napping-and-not-moving, and is not listening, then get firm, put on her halter and lead rope, and make her move. You don't need to beat on her or scream, just make her move. Poke her in the ribs with your fingers to get her to move over. If she insists upon not moving, use the head of a nail to give her some incentive. As soon as she listens, pat her and tell her she's a good girl. Once my Paint was challenging me, and did for about a week, she was getting in my bubble, trying to kick me, etc. And really all you can do is not give them any extra love or treats, and work with them consistantly. My Paint finally realized I wasn't giving up, and gave in to my wishes. Of course, then I gave her love and treats.

Also make sure Sundance doesn't have any health problems. See if she is going potty regularly and normally, and don't overfeed her. If she is getting overfed, she might just be fat and tired.

The bottom line is to spend time and give love to your horse. They crave that attention and want to have a relationship with their human friends. Try to ride regularly, at least twice a week, and if you can't ride, at least groom them, clean their feet, comb their manes, spend that quality time with them.

Thanks, pawsandclaws!

~ Mandy

Do you have any horse-related questions? Leave a comment here. I will be happy to answer any remarks!

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