Full Livery People - Do you see your horse daily?

[McFluff]

Mine is on part (full care but no exercise) and he gets at least one day a week to just be a horse - so just in to check over then back out with the herd. It’s never dawned on me to feel guilty. Me going up is definitely more for my benefit than his (he’s always pleased to see me, but I’m fairly sure he is equally happy on his rest days).

 

[NinjaPony]

I used to go up 4x a week when mine were on full livery (no exercise just care) and worked full time. Now I work mainly from home full time and have 1 on DIY and I must say I miss the ability to have a day off!

 

[Gloi]

I go most days but missed a few recently with the gales and trees down. I do miss occasionally in winter and I often don't ride in winter but normally go every day in summer. It is good to know I can miss a day without worrying though.

 

[SO1]

I go 5 times a week. It gives me a couple of evenings free to either work late or meet up with friends.

I am on part livery with option to add exercise. At the moment pony is rehabbing due to a tendon injury so I am buying in extra services for the walking programme which means he gets walked three times a day on the days I don't go and twice on the days when I do.

It can take 2 hours to get to yard sometimes - I live in London and go to yard on public transport and the bus and train journey can be slow or unreliable. Hence I need to be on part livery.

I have been on DIY grass livery before at a yard nearer to home it saved me a huge amount of money but I had no social life and was stuck in the same job for 15 years as had to leave at 5pm to get to the yard so working late was out and also could not travel for work.

I moved yards due a horse in the same field dying due to sycamore poisoning. The cost of part livery was so much more but I was able to change jobs to a better paid job as I could work long days and also travel for work. I was also able to go on holiday for the first time in 10 years and socialise after work. It is costing me a small fortune but worth it to have a bit of time to spend with family and friends as well as knowing my pony is well cared for especially as he has had a couple of injuries over the last few years.

I don't feel guilty for having a couple of days off a week.

 

[Rokele55]

Crikey. I have been a groom on livery yards where the horse is produced in Apple pie order, tacked up and tarted up ready for the owner to swing a leg over from the mounting block. With up to 20 horses on the yard I can't imagine the amount of work if all the owners turned up every day!

 

[pistolpete]

I’d still go every day. I did when mine was on full. Staff just process horses. They don’t spend time with them. It’s very good to go and not ride. Improves your bond and can be very relaxing.

 

[Sleipnir]

This month I'm feeling miserable, because my work schedule doesn't allow me to go more than 3 times a week....yet again I feel grateful, because my yard is great and I trust completely that my horses will be cared for and in good shape whenever I go to see them.

 

[Auslander]

On average, my liveries come up twice a week. It's a bit different here, as I only have a few in proper work, but I think everyone knows that their horse will be checked and given a fuss whenever I go near them, so no-one feels the need to be up every day to meet their horses needs - physical or (perceived) emotional.
I have experienced a bit of "Holier than thou" from some owners who are up more than others, and it's one of my least favourite things about running a yard, so I stamp on it if it happens. I have gently phased out a few people who were intent on judging others, so my yard is mostly a nice place to be, whether you come up once a day, or once a year.

 

[Trouper]

I have used full livery because of needing the muscle-power help with stable duties - but still felt compelled to go every day. Even hobbled up the first day home after a back op. My horse was part of the family and I need to have eyes on all of my animals daily - however much I trust others to do the chores.

 

[ycbm]

I used to go two nights a week, usually Tuesday and Thursday, and both days at weekends.
.

 

[Hanno Verian]

Crikey. I have been a groom on livery yards where the horse is produced in Apple pie order, tacked up and tarted up ready for the owner to swing a leg over from the mounting block. With up to 20 horses on the yard I can't imagine the amount of work if all the owners turned up every day!

At the end of the day, as long as the horses are looked after well, who cares..... I paid circa £700 p/m my horse was kept well, fit and schooled, he was very contented. My YM was exceptionally good, my horse was 40 min away from home I rode on average twice a week, I didnt have the time to spend hours at the yard.

I didnt exactly turn up untie the big red bow and remove the cellophane wrapper from an immaculate horse, but actually whats the problem with that, I would assume the owner would pay accodingly and for the YM would know exactly where they stood and would minimise the disruption that owners faffing about would bring to their smootly running machine.

 

[DressageCob]

I don't. Pre-covid I was getting there at the weekends and maybe once a week. Now, because more of my work is remote (at least for now) I normally get there 3 days mid week and the weekend.

I don't feel particularly guilty. The yard is exceptional and I trust them all implicitly. I don't need to be there to know he is being looked after. I see him as much as I can but I have to work to justify having horses at all so that takes priority sometimes.

 

[Hanno Verian]

Some people are cash rich - time poor, its about balancing whats important in your life, as long as welfare isnt compromised. Busy people have lots going on its about being time efficient and juggling commitments, it would be a touch judgemental to look down on someone who only spends four hours a week with their horses as opposed to four hours a day. And for the record I am absolutely not saying that Rokele 55 was being judgemental

 

[wiglet]

I'm on part (everything except riding) but it's called full in my area. I usually go up every day just to check everything is ok - I have a deep mistrust of everyone when it comes to my horse, not that she's ever been mistreated by the yard, I just like to keep my eye on things though. I have/need full because of my work (shifts and long hours). It is nice to be able to go on holiday though and know your horse is sorted out and in the same routine.

 

[Emilieu]

This winter I moved from DIY to full livery (no riding) five days out of seven. I’m finding it really hard to adapt and cut myself some slack- I’m so busy but if I miss seeing her for a couple of days in a row I end up feeling guilty and miserable. I had no idea it would be so hard to adapt!

 

[Deltofe2493]

My horse is on full livery and lame at the moment, and I find I've actually been there more than when I'm planning on riding!

I aim to go 4x a week, anything over is a bonus. Like earlier posts said, this is the joy of being on full livery. I do think it is harder to form a bond when on full livery because you aren't there every day. Swings and roundabouts!

 

[MrsCentaur]

Weekly if that, at the moment - I'm in a busy period at work. When it's quiet I get there 3/4 times each week.

 

[Petmurf]

Well I’m getting better and had a break last Friday and Sunday, first Sunday I’ve stayed home in about a year and it was lovely. Might do the same this week as I’m riding Tues, Weds and Thursday during the day this week.

 

[Kat]

As title, my boy is on full livery but I have it in my head that I HAVE to see him everyday, whether I’m riding or not, to the point that I put additional pressure on myself to get up there even when it’s cold and wet I still go, give him a hug, chat to him a bit then leave him to it.

I know he couldn’t care less if he saw me everyday or not so I wondered if other people are the same or do you give yourself a break a few evenings a week?

I'm similar, I go up every day whatever the weather and whether or not I am riding.

I often drop in late on my way back from a busy day just for a fuss and a cuddle. I don't go if I have something on after work and can't make it or if I am on holiday or away for the day and I am confident that she is well looked after in my absence. However I like to see her and bad weather or something wouldn't put me off. She brightens my day so visiting her doesn't stress me out or feel like pressure, it is a bit of decompression time.

 

[LegOn]

I used to go up everyday because I wasnt 100% happy with the yard I was on - not getting enough hay/not turned out/bed dirty etc but on my new yard I dont feel the need! (also on full/non-ridden livery)

I'm delighted but I usually ride 5/6 days a week so I am up most days but its a nice feeling not to 'have' to go up if I'm not feeling up to it! Its the only yard I've actually left it 2 days in a row not going up to check on my boy!

But I do still suffer from the guilt My YO is lovely and will send me a photo or video of him cause she knows I'm bonkers!

 

[Polos Mum]

When mine were on full livery it was because I was travelling with work, I often didn't see him in the week. He was with people who I trusted and respected so I never worried about not being able to go. There was one yard I ended up popping up to check water / hay then quickly moved to another yard !

He had his routine, field mates and seemed not bothered at all if I went or not

 

[Ratface]

My horse is on full livery with his breeder. He is 28, sound and still in light work, 2-3 times a week.
The breeder is internationally recognised and respected.
The yard is 20 minutes away. I am retired. My horse is central to my mental health.
Iam only allowed to see my horse three times a week: Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday.
I have to text the yard owner/breeder to ask permission to see/ride my horse. I have to go at the time specified by yo/b. I am awarded only just enough time to either ride for 20 minutes or groom/strap for 25 minutes.
I am not allowed to do anything with him, other than the activities noted above.
He and I have been there for 9 years. I'm the only livery. Initially, yo/b was not so repressive. I used to go up, catch him and go off hacking,for hours. Gradually, this changed.
He's looked after to the highest standards and the y/o obviously loves him.
I've tried discussing the above with yo, to no avail. S/he either shouts/screams in my face and/or slams doors/gates in my face and storms off.
I arranged for alternative livery for him, and gave a month's notice. YO became hysterical and begged me not to move him. I didn't, due to his faultless care.
I don't want to move my horse but the situation is causing me utter misery.
I'm going without food, warmth, and other necessities to keep my lovely horse. He will be my last one in my long horse-owning life. My only consolation is that he is receiving the best of care and management.

 

[teddy_]

At the moment, I am only seeing mine at the weekend as he is stabled 21 miles away (very inconvenient, am looking for alternative accommodation) so, to be frank, after work and whilst he is somewhere I know he is getting the best possible care, I don't suppose he cares one iota how often I see him .

He is also having a holiday until New Year so, I will probably try and squeeze in one ride during the week otherwise, it's all down to my trainer.

 

[Deltofe2493]

My horse is on full livery with his breeder. He is 28, sound and still in light work, 2-3 times a week.
The breeder is internationally recognised and respected.
The yard is 20 minutes away. I am retired. My horse is central to my mental health.
Iam only allowed to see my horse three times a week: Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday.
I have to text the yard owner/breeder to ask permission to see/ride my horse. I have to go at the time specified by yo/b. I am awarded only just enough time to either ride for 20 minutes or groom/strap for 25 minutes.
I am not allowed to do anything with him, other than the activities noted above.
He and I have been there for 9 years. I'm the only livery. Initially, yo/b was not so repressive. I used to go up, catch him and go off hacking,for hours. Gradually, this changed.
He's looked after to the highest standards and the y/o obviously loves him.
I've tried discussing the above with yo, to no avail. S/he either shouts/screams in my face and/or slams doors/gates in my face and storms off.
I arranged for alternative livery for him, and gave a month's notice. YO became hysterical and begged me not to move him. I didn't, due to his faultless care.
I don't want to move my horse but the situation is causing me utter misery.
I'm going without food, warmth, and other necessities to keep my lovely horse. He will be my last one in my long horse-owning life. My only consolation is that he is receiving the best of care and management.

This is such an odd set up. He is YOUR horse! There is more than one yard in the world who provide good care. I would move him asap and ignore the YO, they haven't considered your needs and restricted your time with him, so why cater to them? I do appreciate this is probably easier said than done, though.

 

[Petmurf]

My horse is on full livery with his breeder. He is 28, sound and still in light work, 2-3 times a week.
The breeder is internationally recognised and respected.
The yard is 20 minutes away. I am retired. My horse is central to my mental health.
Iam only allowed to see my horse three times a week: Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday.
I have to text the yard owner/breeder to ask permission to see/ride my horse. I have to go at the time specified by yo/b. I am awarded only just enough time to either ride for 20 minutes or groom/strap for 25 minutes.
I am not allowed to do anything with him, other than the activities noted above.
He and I have been there for 9 years. I'm the only livery. Initially, yo/b was not so repressive. I used to go up, catch him and go off hacking,for hours. Gradually, this changed.
He's looked after to the highest standards and the y/o obviously loves him.
I've tried discussing the above with yo, to no avail. S/he either shouts/screams in my face and/or slams doors/gates in my face and storms off.
I arranged for alternative livery for him, and gave a month's notice. YO became hysterical and begged me not to move him. I didn't, due to his faultless care.
I don't want to move my horse but the situation is causing me utter misery.
I'm going without food, warmth, and other necessities to keep my lovely horse. He will be my last one in my long horse-owning life. My only consolation is that he is receiving the best of care and management.

Thats terrible ? He‘s your horse and you’re paying for his care, not for someone to tell you when you can and can’t see him, Personally I would be very suspicious as to why I couldn’t see my horse any time I choose and I would move him asap. There are plenty of other places that will provide the care you are looking for without restriction.

 

[Lyle]

Horse on full care livery- i.e fed, rugged etc but not ridden. I attempted to visit 6 times a week. I would have one evening off, but sometimes other things cropped up during the week/weekend which meant I couldn't go visit. It was totally worth knowing that he was well cared for! Bit different now... own my own property with 18 horses (plus goats, chickens, alpacas, dogs, cats....) It's a 4am start to feed everyone if I need to head out early for the day

 

[Bernster]

Rat face, he may be getting good care but you’re not. There are other yards, obv you want to be careful when you move, but I’d def move if I were you. Sounds horrible.

 

[fawaz]

I think as long as he is being worked enough without you attending then there is no need to go.

Im in Australia and mine are on full care and I am currently only visiting on the weekends but they are not stabled and don't need to be worked.

If they were stabled for all or part of the day and you were not paying the place to work them every day, then I feel you are obligated to go work the horse yourself.

 

[fawaz]

Ratface, move as soon as you can! There are places that will give you both the care and freedom you desire.

You are suffering and one day you will regret all the time you didn't get to spend with your horse. Sometimes you need to look after YOU. Your horse will be fine.

 

[Ratface]

Ratface, move as soon as you can! There are places that will give you both the care and freedom you desire.

You are suffering and one day you will regret all the time you didn't get to spend with your horse. Sometimes you need to look after YOU. Your horse will be fine.

Thats terrible ? He‘s your horse and you’re paying for his care, not for someone to tell you when you can and can’t see him, Personally I would be very suspicious as to why I couldn’t see my horse any time I choose and I would move him asap. There are plenty of other places that will provide the care you are looking for without restriction.

An escape plan for me and old horse has now been devised!
I sit tight until 28/01/2022. Then give a month's notice. No reason given, other than " I feel it's time for us to move on". Ignore all tantrums/beseeching/begging. If YO refuses the notice, 2 weeks prior to exit date, I'll move all my/horse's belongings home, remind YO of when livery will cease, and arrange for new YO and trailer to meet us halfway. Horse is excellent to box (previous international show jumper) and off we shall go.
Current YO knows where my friend's livery yard is (and has been scathing about it - "I wouldn't let any horse of mine live in a bog". They don't.) I doubt she'll ever speak to me again.
I'm anxious about moving my old boy from his herd, worried that he'll hoon around like a loon (and lame himself) or that the move will bring on colic. However, he hurtles about like a loon anyway, is likely to die via colic, as all his relatives have as they have aged, and so far, he's outlived them all.
So - wise ones: is this a good-enough plan to see old horse and me out?
One of the positives is that that should old horse die before me, there are rescue ponies/horses I could work around with, as I enjoy the infinite slow progress that, in my experience, it requires.