Recent content by SusieT

I think try and find him a job to try - exercise and stimulation is better than being sat in a small turnout

If you dont need fancy I'd suggest just splitting the covered space with gates covered by suitable anti kick material.

I wouldn't leave him with nothing on. T/shrirt and shorts may be an option you could cobble together?

What is your turnout like? Is it large, pasture with hollows/hills - or flat agricultural? Can you try him in a barn/large pasture arrangement? The fact he weaves and stresses when horses move suggests he isn't quite happy. Sometimes unless you have experienced horses living out in truely proper...

Another thought- build a shed for the kids to play in, with heater + kids stuff at current place? Then no car, they've a safe, warm,lit place to be and you have your own place which in 5 years time may feel more appealing! Could you also consider a trial month for kids pony at new yard?

Could you get anyone else in to your current set up for company/help? Without the children - I'd stay at my own yard. With the children i see the attraction of being somewhere with other kids - makes it much more fun for them. What age are kids are they anywhere near old enough to be left at...

If you would consider further work up I would ask to be referred to a hospital with an equine medical clinician as they will get you the best chance of a recovery . Low protein is not a great thing to have.

Get straw and mix it in or put up a second net or soak it. The fact they are cribbing tells you you need to resolve this urgently

would glue on shoes be better perhaps?

Your latest update also sounds like you are scared of him - this + an excited or unhappy 5 yr old has massive ramifications. I'd suggest see if you can weedle out some local suggestions of a good young rider ( cheaper than pro) who is good at riding youngsters to come ride 2 times to see how he...

Number of possibilities: Not enough exercise - 16 hours stabled is a fair bit. Does he need more work? Ulcers - stabling + recent surgery- high risk for ulcers Other pain I think you need a competent vet to check him for pain +- scope or trial ulcer treatment + check saddle. None of which are...

I thnk I would sit down and have a chat - but maybe approach it as you've really enjoyed the loan and wanted to check in plans for the next 6 months/winter What do you want to do- do you want to ride on your own? If you said to her you feel too big on the pony - do you think she might stop you...

I think the difficult bit is- if they weren't your in-laws - where would you keep your horses? I would go into this very carefully. Are you planning children/got children? You need to present them with a reason other than 'I don't want to pay you anymore' as that is hard for anyone to swallow...

I think we need more context- what are they doing with your kit etc?

I'd suggest taking a step back. This pony has only just landed with you. If there are no wounds or painful sores identified yet, I would slow down. Pause and think - how much past his comfort zone did I go? It's clear from this post that you are aware of building up confidence in tasks. Think...