Separation anxiety or stupidity in herd bound horse?

[wrider]

Hello.  I am posting this in the hopes that I can get some assortment of advice!

I have an almost 8 year old appendix Quarter Horse gelding, Jiggs, that I have had since he was 2 and trained up for barrel racing.  He's a pretty spunky horse at times, but for the most part is very calm for a barrel racer (at least compared to my old horse).  I've

Comments

[runnintowinit]

Tie him out away from his buddy while you exercise other horses.And also...If at all possible, seperate him from the other horses in the pasture. If not, I understand.
Also, you could try reverse psychology...which always seems to work for me. Put him on the lungeline and work him down a pretty good bit by the other horses....then walk away from the pasture/ buddies and let him rest. Repeat and until he gets the point: "You want to be with your buddies, it's time for work. If you'd rather hang with me, let's rest" It doesnt take most horses a long time to realize if they just cooperate, life is simple.
When you are attempting to catch him in the pasture, grab a handful of dirt clods, or get on a 4-wheeler, and MAKE him run. I had a mare who never wanted to be caught, one day of making her run from me was all it took-she walked right up to me, and never gave me another problem.
Good luck. I know that has to be frustrating! I am definately not an expert, but those are the things that have helped in my situations.

[wrider]

Thanks for the tips! My father suggested something similar except that rather than me walk my horse away, i have someone walk the buddy away several times as I round pen my horse, or lunge him. He's actually great if he's the one leaving, but not if he's the one being left. Again, thanks for the tips! I'll have to get out and try them :-)