all advice much appreciated

B

BJC

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I have been sharing a 20 year old warmblood x throughbred cross during the last year. During this time, he has turned from an uncontrollable beast to an absoluetly delightful ride, with whom I compete in local riding club dressage and jumping competiions. He is far more beautiful and talented than I will ever be. For my whole life, I have wanted a horse/pony, but I have a very stressful job that does not allow me much free time., so I have not acheieved my dream. During the last year, the horses owner has ridden him once and now has a new baby (during the last 5 years, he has not receieved much more attention). To save money, she is now planning to put him into retirement livery, with limited facilities. However - when I turn up to see him, he is straight up to the gate to greet me, and his change in behaviour over the last year leaves me with the feeling that he enjoys what we do together, even though I only manage to see him 3x week. I'm also not convinced that he would survive a winter outside, without the comfort of a stable overnight. My job now requires me to move, and I am thinking of asking to take the horse with me, and take over all responsibility for him. I'm not that young myself either (49) but know that I can afford proper care for him. The last winter - he has remained oompletely fit and healthy, and has absolutely no signs of arthriitis. Am I being stupid thinking of taking on a 20 year old fit horse that suits me perfectly, even though I will have to deal with all his retirement costs? Should I just look for a younger horse after I've moved? I also cant bear the thought of leaving him - without knowing that he will have the best of care. all suggestions greatfully received.
 
No, You ar enot being stupid. You have formed a bond and sounds like you are right for each other.

I took on an 18 yr old in a very poor state, thinking he could retire and be pts quite quickly. 11 yrs on I still have him and he has only this year fully retired.

On the other hand, I also took on a 16yr old, had her for 2 yrs and then she had to be very quickly pts. But still didn't regret it. Its nice to give the oldies some quality of life and also to have ahorse you enjoy and trust!
 
20 isnt that old. from the sound of it the owner might be glad of you to take him off your hands. as long as you can find somewhere suitable to keep him and can afford him then why not.
 
If the owner will let you buy him I would go for it. You sound perfect for each other. Yes, you could buy a younger horse, but you might not have the same relationship and he might need more of your time. You have already proved that the time you give him works well for both of you.

By the way, I am 46 and my horse is 18, I've had her 5 months and she is perfect. I'm so pleased I didn't go for some of the younger horses I viewed.
 
No, not at all stupid. It sounds like a perfect arrangement to me. You have found a horse that suits you, the owner no longer has time and so is looking at the available options and presumably is thinking that as you will soon be moving away, she will not have your support in future. I should think that she would be glad to hear that you would like to take him with you.
 
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