companions for a solo pony

J

JLD

Well-Known Member
Joined
20 May 2008
Messages
969
Visit site
Ok. I know horses need company. I have always been adamant I would never keep a horse on its own but I am now in a quandary. For various reasons I have ended up with a pony who is is currently on his own except some sheep. There are horses both sides of him that he can see but not touch. And he is totally relaxed and happy. I have known him for years when he has been in with other horses, and on his own and I have never known him this chilled. He is not depressed or withdrawn he just seems really happy. If I set out to get him a companion, it will be more work and cost (that's ok if needed ) but I am also worried I may upset a really stable working situation. What does anyone else think ? I am confused !
 
I'm a believer in listerning to them, if he is happy/ it ain't broke - don't fix it!

A good companion is worth their weight in gold but sadly we can't ask them what sort of companion they would like so you could spend time finding one and them really not get on and unsettle him.

I'd keep a close eye and if he starts being unhappy you can always look for one at a later date.
 
Being able to see other horses around is almost as good as having them together, and horses and sheep generally go well together, so I'd say your situation isn't too bad at all, especially if the horse seems happy.

I used to have a couple of pet sheep in with an old horse of mine; the horse was fairly indifferent to them, but the sheep used to get REALLY upset whenever I took her out for a ride, going potty and charging up and down the fenceline baa'ing.
 
Last edited:
I agree. I am looking for a companion home for one of my mares...except she is a vampire horse who can only go out at night :)
 
Thank you for your opinions. That had put my mind at rest a bit. It seems wrong to have him on his own but he doesn't seem to think so and if he didn't get on with a companion it would have upset him for no reason !
 
It seems that most horses need company and mine are no exception, but I have a friend whose horse in completely happy in the situation that you have so go with it! Why make more work if it's not necessary (and expense).
 
My aunt has a horse that she keeps at home.. Completely on his own no problems at all he's fine and he has no other company.. Some horses are fine and as you say you have sheep plus horses all around xxxx
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top