Companion required

[pistolpete]

I lost my lovely horse Pete a couple of weeks ago and as I kept him and my Highland Quin in a paddock with no other horses around I had to hastily relocate my highland to a livery yard for company. He’s doing well there now but id like to go back to my paddock as it’s quiet backs onto a bridle way and it’s secluded and peaceful there. Problem is a companion. Anyone had any success with anything other than an equine companion? I might want another horse in the future but really can’t look until I get over Pete a lot more. I know you can get rescues and fosters but I’m such a softy they’ll just end up staying and I then won’t have an option to get another riding pony. I have until the end of August to sort something out. I have a couple of pony loan options which I must explore fully too. Just don’t want to end up making Quin go through too much more separation. He’s already clingy to a mare at the livery yard. Bless him.

 

[Equi]

Just breathe, you've had a big change too. Horses are generally always happier with other horses vs other animals and when they move a yard its not uncommon for them to cling to someone who is not trying to kill them. Its going to take a long time to get over pete but you will find time helps. Don't worry about any of this for at least a week or two....give yourself time to grieve and get thinking straight without worrying about pete, moving yards, company etc. Put yourself on a block...Just relax and take it as it comes. In two weeks start to think about it again but logically.

 

[Not_so_brave_anymore]

I imagine there would be a lot of people who would be happy for a short term loan over the winter? Maybe even a smaller riding school or trekking centre?

 

[SpotsandBays]

What about advertising for somebody keep their horse there for a while? That way you’re not buying another for yourself when you’re not ready, and your horse is getting a companion it needs. (Bonus might be a hacking buddy too!)

 

[Polos Mum]

Sorry for your loss, some rescues do youngster loan - they should go back to be broken and then reloaned as ridden horses. Maybe that would work as it's definitely temporary for a good reason and you won't feel too bad.

Bransby horses definitely do this