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[RC] Being the herd leader - Betty EdgarYour removing
fly masks when horses are being introduced into the herd is an excellent idea
based upon an experience I had a few years ago. Two of the geldings in my
pasture had been together for a few weeks, were good friends and spent
considerable time playing together. Neither had yet worn a fly mask that
spring. One day I took the big gray Arab out for a ride and when we
returned I put a fly mask on him before putting him back to pasture. The
little chestnut Qhorse attacked him, kicking, squealing, biting trying to
drive him from the pasture. The big gray was not nearly as quick and agile
as the little Q horse and eventually slammed broadside into the fence.
Fortunately it was Safe Fence and neither the horse nor the fence were hurt but
during his scramble to get up and away the Qhorse had got close enough that he
finally recognized his friend, maybe from smell, and just stood there with a
rather sheepish look on his face. I guess the Qhorse apologized to
the Arab because they trotted off together and remained the best of
friends. That indicated to me that horses look at faces for
quick recognition and I have been careful about the fly mask thing since
then.
Betty
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