Question: When I sit quietly near my 13 year-old mare, she gradually moves closer until her neck is over me, then lifts a front leg, almost like a dog shaking hands. I can sit under her belly, but that doesn’t seem to satisfy her. She’s not aggressive or demanding, and has that dreamy, relaxed look in her eyes.  What is your interpretation of this behavior?

Answer: I believe that one or both of the following is occurring with your mare. It sounds as though your mare considers you a part of her herd. This is a good thing, as it appears as though she is well bonded with you. You did not mention whether you have other horses or not. If she is the only horse on your property, I suspect she seeks you out as a companion while she grazes. The act of placing her neck over you indicates that she may view you as a foal. Watch a mare and foal in the pasture sometime. Mares are especially likely to stay quite near newborn foals as they graze, and often drowse (dreamy, almost sleeping state) with their necks across their foals. Also, you stated that the mare allows you to sit under her belly. While this may be simply an indicator of a well behaved and trained mare, it could also signify that she views you as a foal. As she is not acting aggressively, I believe she views you as some part of her herd. When she lifts her leg, it may be an attempt to get your attention (do you often feed her treats, does she like being petted?) if it evokes a response from you. While it sounds like your mare is usually quite peaceful, always keep safety in mind when sitting in the pasture with your horse.