Bringing an oldie back into work and his weight limit....

[JackDaniels1]

.... What are your thoughts on bringing an oldie back into work? We are not certain of his age but if the previous owner is anything to go by he would be around 28 now. He has done quite a lot of competing in the past, last ridden was around 5/6 years ago.

.... Next question is what size/weight rider could he carry? He is 14.2hh, we are not sure of his breed, he is quite cobby but not a full/pure cob. A friend said she thought he possibly had arab in him, another friend thought he was a welsh sec d! So who knows!

 

[Damnation]

II have no problem with it as long as it is done slowly with a nice lightweight rider.
I would say a child or small adult rider should be alright for him but because he is older ensure you build his topline up before anyone sits on him. If you have a brave child I would be tempted to get them to ride him for the first while until he is built up and a bit fitter.
I would say 8stone would be his weight limit, perhaps less depending on his condition build etc, and perhaps more if he is well built.

 

[Wagtail]

No, wouldn't do it. Especially as he's been out of work for that long. Most I woulddo with him is give the kids a ride leading him in walk.

 

[lexiedhb]

I would do the same as if i were bringing any other hoss back into work, just maybe at a slower pace.
8 stone for a 14.2 POSS Sec D is IMO way to low, but it will depend what he was used to carrying when he was younger..... I would say up to 12 stone would probably be ok for light work, as i assume you are not planning on taking him on endurance rides or eventing, but general mooching! (more if he was younger!).

Each horse is different though, and I would stop if I thought said oldie was not enjoying it.