What should you do if the horse shows resistance during a skin check?

• A. Discontinue palpation and stop the check.
• B. Push harder to force the check.
• C. Continue regardless.
• D. Yell to gain compliance.

Answer: (A)

When a horse resists during a skin check, safety and welfare come first. The moment there’s resistance, stop the palpation to prevent escalating stress or a possible injury to you or the horse. Take a breath, give the horse time to relax, and reassess what might be causing the discomfort—perhaps a tender spot, pain, or simple anxiety about touching that area. You can then plan a gentler approach: reattempt later with a lighter touch, shorter contact, and a calm voice, and only proceed if the horse remains comfortable. If you suspect a skin issue, note it and seek guidance from a supervisor or veterinarian before continuing. The important step is to discontinue the check when resistance appears and address the situation calmly and safely.