Advice on where to go from here?

[fingers_crossed]

I could do with opinions please.

My 6yoTB was last year diagnosed with OCD of the stifles and mild arthritis at C8. He is not lame as such but was struggling to perform to his previous level, which led to investigation and diagnosis. Unfortunately after operating he is still uncomfortable/stiff, so is basically now only up to hacking, which is not what I want to do. I would love to find him a home as a happy hacker.The vets think he will go on for years like this no problem. He is the kindest, loveliest horse I ever met, goes past lorries ,motorbikes, whatever. However he is still a rather large 6yo TB, and I think he needs someone who is competent enough 1. to give a kick if he does meet anything new, in which case he bobbles past ,2. who will be able to manage a TB (he loses a fair bit of condition if out over winter and not fed carefully), 3.will notice if for any reason his stiffness deteriorates alot , 4. has company for him as he is a very friendly chap.

Now do people think this is asking alot and anyone will be interested? I don't think it seems unreasonable, but I don't know if anyone (I could bear to let him go to) would want a horse who can only hack and occasionally school? The other option is retirement but I think he would be bored and sad not getting so much attention?

I have been so lucky with my old boys loaner as she loves and cares for him just like I would , so maybe my standards will be too high? What would you do - I don't really want to put ads up as he's not really suitable for novices to joyride on, however lovely he is I wouldn't want to push his good nature too far, and at the moment I'm struggling . So is it just because there is no opening for a horse like him? I won't ever sell him as I can't bear the thought of someone pushing him into hard work again and him being in pain.
Unfortunately coming into winter I won't have time in the light to hack, and ideally want something to bring on for next year.

HELP????

 

[Black_Horse_White]

My horse has a few health problems at the moment, and i was thinking if the worst happened and he had to be PTS. I would be maybe looking for a long term / permanent loan this time. I would be looking for a happy hacker, occasional schooling. Your horse would be perfect for me, so no your not too picky. And there is people out there who would look after him as you would. Good luck with your search he sounds lovely.

 

[alainax]

Yeah possibly loaning him would be better than selling him.

 

[ozpoz]

I have a 'downsized' horse who belonged to a close friend.
Due to injury/and different lifestyle now I no longer wish to compete but I really enjoy hacking out looking at the scenery, and my horse is enjoying life too - and his owner is thrilled he has found a new role in life. He is sharp and bright, but his lovely paces give me huge pleasure.
He is also happy which is as important to me as his former owner
If I were you, I would network like mad and tell everyone what you would like for his future - there are people out there who have 'downsized' too!
Good luck in finding the perfect person for him!