Head tossing

I have a 15year old thoroughbred who, in his prime showing years, was a legend who could do no wrong. Now though, after buying my youngster he had 2 years off (with light riding). Now when I ride he throws his head around violently and sometimes almost hits me with it! The more he gets worked the better he gets although he doesn't fully work out of it. I have had teeth and back and saddlery checked and all is fine. He even does it in the paddock. He used to do it before but never as bad as this. I really want to continue riding him as he is a lovely horse with nice light movement and is a joy to ride when he goes well, but it just gets so frustrating when he won't co-operate with me. Any suggestions? Confused

Hi,I do have one suggestion.Your fella night possibly have rolled badly or done something else not to leave a mark.The only thought is having some Bowen or Laser done,around his neck and head ,he could be suffering with chronic headache to be doing it on his own in the paddock.Without obvious advertising there is an excellent therapist advertised on this site.Good luck.

Yes, i have actually tried Bowen already. I am a big fan of it, although there seems to be nothing that could be causing it according to my Bowen lady. I have tried drops in the ears in case it is ear mites, have tried insect repellents along the neck. If it was recent thing I would think maybe something happened in the paddock/stable but it has been ongoing for years now, only recently more violent.

I would try getting an actual Chiropractor instead as it could be a skeletal issue rather than muscular. Try the "Our Recomendations" link which lists the official site for Chiros.

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I would suggest a Chiro as well. Sounds like you've tried all other bases. Can I recommend a Chiro called Kevin Kelly? He's always seen to my horse, and has always done a fantastic job. I'm bringing my TB back in to work now actually, after an almost 2 yr spell. I'm trying to book him in too, because he's a little sore through the hips & back.

Good luck - let us know what you decide on and if there's any improvement! Smile

*Competition post 9*

Headshaking is actually a known medical condition in horses. There has been heaps of research done on it in recent years. I'm not up to speed with it all but from memory a lot of horses suffer allergies and a hypersensitivity to certain allergens can set them off. Do some research on the net, there is heaps of info out there. I know a few that have done well in specially designed nose guards and fly veils.

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"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated" Mahatma Gandhi.