HOW TO DEAL WITH SEPARATION ANXIETY
01
WHY HORSES GET SEPARATION ANXIETY
It’s natural. They’re herd animals.
Horses feel safest in the company of others. When a friend leaves, it can trigger stress and worry.
Common reasons include:
Strong bond with field mate or stable companion
Sudden changes in routine or environment
Past trauma or stressful experiences
Lack of confidence or security
Boredom and lack of mental stimulation
Strong bond with field mate or stable companion
Sudden changes in routine or environment
Past trauma or stressful experiences
Lack of confidence or security
Boredom and lack of mental stimulation
Understanding the cause helps you choose the right approach.
02
SIGNS YOUR HORSE IS STRUGGLING
Every horse shows stress differently. Look out for these behaviours:
Calling or neighing repeatedly
Pacing, circling or weaving
Sweating
Refusing to eat or drink
Cribbing
Agitated behaviour
03
A SIMPLE STEP-BY-STEP TRAINING PLAN
Build confidence gradually.
Start small
Separate just a few metres for 30 seconds.
Return before stress
Go back before anxiety starts. You don’t want to accidently reward the panic, you want to reward the calm.
Gradually increase
Add a little more time or distance each session.
Be consistent
Short, frequent sessions build confidence faster.
Make it boring
Keep departures and returns quiet, routines predictable and low-key.
Start small
Separate just a few metres for 30 seconds.
Return before stress
Go back before anxiety starts. You don’t want to accidently reward the panic, you want to reward the calm.
Gradually increase
Add a little more time or distance each session.
Be consistent
Short, frequent sessions build confidence faster.
Make it boring
Keep departures and returns quiet, routines predictable and low-key.
04
SUPPORT FROM WITHIN
Training builds confidence, BUCK OFF helps support a calmer mindset.
BUCK OFF was developed from one of our natural human formulations created to support people experiencing anxiety & depression, before being carefully adapted for the unique nutritional needs of horses.
It’s non-drowsy (and non-sedative) blend supports a calmer, more settled mindset, making it the perfect partner to consistent separation anxiety training.
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