[Michelle Ross]

I used a buck back strap on my forward Belgium mare but she fought it constantly and just pushed harder. I took it off and started working her with just my voice and pull and release methods on the lines, anticipating her movements. That helped some. Then,a very experienced teamster gave me an elbow straight bit with a curb chain replacing the snaffle to try and that worked like a charm when driving the team. When driving solo, the mare is not forward and I think it is sort of competition for her to want to lead ahead.

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[Michelle Ross]

Looks like an improper fit combined with heat trapping. Suggest rest (no collar or pulling) for a couple of days: ice is good for the first hour or so, followed by a hot pact for a couple of days, 2-3X/day for 10 minutes. Get the swelling down then consider a different pad. Ensure that the collar is a good fit for future work. Dr. Ross, DVM

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