>>>> ------------Karen, are you saying that you allow the horses to graze to help keep them calm? I've often thought that allowing them to eat when they are nervous is a smart thing, but I think I'm in the minority in thinking this way...
I'm not exactly sure if it calms them, but it is a diversion, and in this case, a treat. I do think some horses, like some people, take comfort in eating when they are a little nervous or unsure. (Sheesh, and I used to be one who lost her appetite when stressed...I've certainly moved on past that!) These mares don't seem nervous though, but getting to eat grass for a minute sort of compensated for the new - and potentially "strange" - feeling of having something "grab" them around their middles. I doubt this step was necessary for these particular horses, but we try to do as much as we can in a low-stress, positive way. I'm too old to hit the ground if I can help it! Karen Thomas, NC
