Do I get a companion or try and get a grass livery?

[hollyround]

I am just re fencing and sorting out our fields at home as am hoping to get a horse I've been excercising on loan in a months time. Sadly our old little companion poy was put down this week so now we just have my friends two ponies who very occasionly might be out riding together. I don't want my new horse to be on her own but am not sure whether to get a companion of some sort or just advertise for a grass livery. My friends two ponies will be in seperate paddocks all summer and I will have two paddocks of two acres each to use in the summer with a new field shelter. In the winter we have access to an 8 acre field to save the fields getting trashed if we need it. Any advice please on the pros and cons of having a companion pony, ie responssibility, expense etc or a grass livery. We are based in Winchester.

 

[Bens_Mum]

Ive got a Shetland and a Section A. Both are really no trouble at all! Apart from the occasional trim and restricted grazing (if the grass ever grows) I don't know ive got them! One we were given and the other was about £50 and they are lovely to have around even though they are oldies. What about putting a wanted ad up im sure you would get one in no time!

 

[Meandtheboys]

Have PM'd detail.................. happy to pay weekly contribution / feet triming vets etc

He was used for babysitting my foalie / yearling.......but can only handle hacking / companion duties

 

[ihatework]

In your situation I would advertise for a retirement livery, it could work out mutually beneficial for you and owner of a retired horse. If you can offer cheap grass and daily check care, the owner then has overall responsibility for vet/farrier etc.
I have a retired horse who is out on a cheap grass livery/part loan basis and the arrangements works well for both parties.

 

[seabiscuit]

It depends on what sort of set up you have 0 I find companion ponies can be pretty frustrating- the biggest thing is trying to keep their eating under control if the grass is too fresh/lush- they are a nightmare to either keep grazing muzzles on or to keep within the fencing if you do fence off a bit of field.
Then there is the extra poo picking, worming.

But if your grass is not too fresh and you dont have to poo pick then it's all very easy.

Maybe it would be best to advertise for a retired grass livery then you would have to have the responsibility of poo picking/feeding/restricting feeding etc etc