Parkranger
Well-Known Member
Remember as well that travelling to the yard in Surrey which is only 10 miles away can take 45 mins - love that london traffic!
Getting Priorities Straight.....
- Thread starter Parkranger
- Start date
Twiglet
Well-Known Member
I'm another one on full livery and I know how OP feels - yes in theory I could do DIY but I think it would be to the detriment of my horse. I'd have to turn out at around 5.30am, summer and winter, and couldn't get to the yard to muck out and bring in until 7.30pm. If I rode as well, it would be around 9pm before I'd tacked up.
Our fields are like soup and he doesn't like going out for long periods of time, so for him to go out 14 hours a day would probably result in him jumping out and getting himself down to the local sanctuary!
Plus he's filthy, despite being on rubber matting and woodchips, and if his bed isn't left up to air for at least a couple of hours a day, it costs an absolute fortune in woodchips.
So Mon-Fri, I pay a freelance groom to do full livery, and I can just turn up and ride. It means I get to ride more, and spend more quality time with my ned. He gets a routine that suits him, and I get time to sleep!
I know it wouldn't suit most people, but it works for us, even though it means sacrifices in other areas!
Our fields are like soup and he doesn't like going out for long periods of time, so for him to go out 14 hours a day would probably result in him jumping out and getting himself down to the local sanctuary!
Plus he's filthy, despite being on rubber matting and woodchips, and if his bed isn't left up to air for at least a couple of hours a day, it costs an absolute fortune in woodchips.
So Mon-Fri, I pay a freelance groom to do full livery, and I can just turn up and ride. It means I get to ride more, and spend more quality time with my ned. He gets a routine that suits him, and I get time to sleep!
I know it wouldn't suit most people, but it works for us, even though it means sacrifices in other areas!
JACQSZOO
Well-Known Member
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Ease off Jac, that's a bit strong.
It costs me nearly that to keep my horse, so doesn't sound steep to me.
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Certainly wasn't meant to come across as strong. However, mucking out one horse is unlikely to give anyone a hernia! Mucking out need not take more than 10/15 mins a day - it really isnt that big a deal but it would make huge differences to the costs involved.
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I realise that - I was being facitious!
It's just a time thing. By the time I get to the yard it's 6.30 - muck out 7.00 ride etc ....... DIY would be great but it's really hard to find decent DIY around Epsom/Banstead way. I also can't not work Ty in the week in the winter - he'd kill me!
Unfortunately selling him isn't an option - he's blind in one eye and is probably worth bugger all even though he has potential.....he's not proven at all. This is another whole discussion and I'm currently trying to get my money back on him.
Can't move him back to my mums as she's in Hampshire - only other option is to try and loan him out down there or get a good rider to exercise him and keep him at mums ....
Also, another thing to add, is that I'm lead singer of a band that's starting to do really well - so I rehearse Mondays and Saturdays too......
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I suppose at the end of the day it all boils down to how much you want to keep him, if you want it badly enough you will make the sacrifice.
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Ease off Jac, that's a bit strong.
It costs me nearly that to keep my horse, so doesn't sound steep to me.
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Certainly wasn't meant to come across as strong. However, mucking out one horse is unlikely to give anyone a hernia! Mucking out need not take more than 10/15 mins a day - it really isnt that big a deal but it would make huge differences to the costs involved.
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I realise that - I was being facitious!
It's just a time thing. By the time I get to the yard it's 6.30 - muck out 7.00 ride etc ....... DIY would be great but it's really hard to find decent DIY around Epsom/Banstead way. I also can't not work Ty in the week in the winter - he'd kill me!
Unfortunately selling him isn't an option - he's blind in one eye and is probably worth bugger all even though he has potential.....he's not proven at all. This is another whole discussion and I'm currently trying to get my money back on him.
Can't move him back to my mums as she's in Hampshire - only other option is to try and loan him out down there or get a good rider to exercise him and keep him at mums ....
Also, another thing to add, is that I'm lead singer of a band that's starting to do really well - so I rehearse Mondays and Saturdays too......
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I suppose at the end of the day it all boils down to how much you want to keep him, if you want it badly enough you will make the sacrifice.
Tempi
Well-Known Member
give me a break, sorry - i work full time (i dont take a lunch break so i can leave the office at 4 instead of 5) i have two competition horses (my choice i know) that i get up at 545am EVERY morning to do, then straight after work i go and ride them both.
I get home around 7 each night and then i study for my OU course that i am doing........
I dont think mucking out one horse early morning is going to give yu a hernia somehow
I get home around 7 each night and then i study for my OU course that i am doing........
I dont think mucking out one horse early morning is going to give yu a hernia somehow
mrdarcy
Well-Known Member
I've been in your position before now and sold horses because of lack of money/time. It's a tough decision but a relief once you've made it and the pressure is off.
As much as I love horses my priorities go - nice house to live in/job that I love/time to enjoy other things/not worrying about how to pay the bills at the end of the month. If all those get a tick next to them then I know I'm in the right place to have a horse. I'd never sacrifice a home for a horse.
As he has some issues I'd would first try to find a sharer - put it out there and see if you get any response. If no joy then I'd try that Project Horses website and see if you can sell him. I'd avoid loaning as you can end up being landed back with the horse at the most inconvenient moment.
One thing I would say is don't let anyone make you feel guilty for not struggling on like you are. Horses are supposed to be a fun hobby - as soon as they start becoming a hassle... due to time, money or whatever... then to to me it's time to take a break. You can always get another horse when your situation is more suitable.
Cool about your band - what sort of music do you play?
As much as I love horses my priorities go - nice house to live in/job that I love/time to enjoy other things/not worrying about how to pay the bills at the end of the month. If all those get a tick next to them then I know I'm in the right place to have a horse. I'd never sacrifice a home for a horse.
As he has some issues I'd would first try to find a sharer - put it out there and see if you get any response. If no joy then I'd try that Project Horses website and see if you can sell him. I'd avoid loaning as you can end up being landed back with the horse at the most inconvenient moment.
One thing I would say is don't let anyone make you feel guilty for not struggling on like you are. Horses are supposed to be a fun hobby - as soon as they start becoming a hassle... due to time, money or whatever... then to to me it's time to take a break. You can always get another horse when your situation is more suitable.
Cool about your band - what sort of music do you play?
Chex
Well-Known Member
I worry about priorities too, I'm hoping to get a mortgage next year and money will be tight! I know there's no way I could get rid of Chex, or even out him out on loan. But his livery is cheap, £120 a month for DIY. Thinking of wintering him out to save costs, that would half the livery bill. Just now I nip up at 7 and chuck him out and muck out, up for about 20 mins. I'm up in the evening - bring him in and feed, takes about 10 mins to get bed down, do hay and water. If there's a floodlit school then riding wouldn't be a problem, just adds some extra time on in the evenings.
horsegirl
Well-Known Member
I live in Surrey and my boy doesn't cost me anywhere near that. We are on DIY fair enough but still all in with insurance, shoes, feed (and he is a very poor doer TB so costs A LOT in food) he costs me about £300 a month in winter and £250 ish in summer.
If you make a list of all his costs it may make it easier to see where you can trim some costs?
If you make a list of all his costs it may make it easier to see where you can trim some costs?
Parkranger
Well-Known Member
I would love to have him on DIY but you find me a yard near me with the facilities?
PG - i respect your decision - perhaps I'm just not as committed as you! I start work at 8am and work through till about 6 and don't have the option of working flexi hours - lucky you though as it sounds like an ideal solution for you.
JZ - I think you're right - not sure if I want to sacrifice owning my own house for TY - no matter how much I enjoy owning him.
I think maybe i'll see if I can get a sharer at the new yard - it's a lovely place so apparently they get alot of people coming to them looking to share - that would be ideal.
PS - love the way people get on their 'high horse' pardon the pun......reminds me of the working mothers argument that so many of my mates have lol x
PG - i respect your decision - perhaps I'm just not as committed as you! I start work at 8am and work through till about 6 and don't have the option of working flexi hours - lucky you though as it sounds like an ideal solution for you.
JZ - I think you're right - not sure if I want to sacrifice owning my own house for TY - no matter how much I enjoy owning him.
I think maybe i'll see if I can get a sharer at the new yard - it's a lovely place so apparently they get alot of people coming to them looking to share - that would be ideal.
PS - love the way people get on their 'high horse' pardon the pun......reminds me of the working mothers argument that so many of my mates have lol x
airedale
Well-Known Member
you're not overstating the costs in Surrey. It costs that much because it does and as you say - if you want somewhere where you can ride as well and your horse is happy........
getting onto the 'property ladder' isn't easy and there are problems there as well - the cheapest housing around is usually on ex-council estates and I've recently moved off of one of those - mostly OK but there is an asbo 'order' on the whole area :-( due to trouble - on the upside - if you call the Police they do turn up !!!
Personally I'd wait and see and carry on as you are - there ARE forecasts of a downturn in property prices by the end of this year - so for now I'd sit tight and NOT buy a house - otherwise you could end up even worse - no horse and in 'negative equity' - I know guessing the house price trends is like crystal ball gazing but personally I'd wait 6 months and review the situation then - meanwhile I'd save hard so that if you decide to go for house in 6 months then
A: you'll have a bigger deposit
B: you'll maybe have found a nice sharer at your new yard
C: you could decide to change jobs to a different part of the country where houses are cheaper and keeping horses is cheaper so you can still have both
good luck
getting onto the 'property ladder' isn't easy and there are problems there as well - the cheapest housing around is usually on ex-council estates and I've recently moved off of one of those - mostly OK but there is an asbo 'order' on the whole area :-( due to trouble - on the upside - if you call the Police they do turn up !!!
Personally I'd wait and see and carry on as you are - there ARE forecasts of a downturn in property prices by the end of this year - so for now I'd sit tight and NOT buy a house - otherwise you could end up even worse - no horse and in 'negative equity' - I know guessing the house price trends is like crystal ball gazing but personally I'd wait 6 months and review the situation then - meanwhile I'd save hard so that if you decide to go for house in 6 months then
A: you'll have a bigger deposit
B: you'll maybe have found a nice sharer at your new yard
C: you could decide to change jobs to a different part of the country where houses are cheaper and keeping horses is cheaper so you can still have both
good luck
JM07
Well-Known Member
sell him, get yourself established, then when you are able, buy another.
Parkranger
Well-Known Member
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you're not overstating the costs in Surrey. It costs that much because it does and as you say - if you want somewhere where you can ride as well and your horse is happy........
getting onto the 'property ladder' isn't easy and there are problems there as well - the cheapest housing around is usually on ex-council estates and I've recently moved off of one of those - mostly OK but there is an asbo 'order' on the whole area :-( due to trouble - on the upside - if you call the Police they do turn up !!!
Personally I'd wait and see and carry on as you are - there ARE forecasts of a downturn in property prices by the end of this year - so for now I'd sit tight and NOT buy a house - otherwise you could end up even worse - no horse and in 'negative equity' - I know guessing the house price trends is like crystal ball gazing but personally I'd wait 6 months and review the situation then - meanwhile I'd save hard so that if you decide to go for house in 6 months then
A: you'll have a bigger deposit
B: you'll maybe have found a nice sharer at your new yard
C: you could decide to change jobs to a different part of the country where houses are cheaper and keeping horses is cheaper so you can still have both
good luck
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Spooky - exactly what my dad just said to me! just weighing up the options now I guess but I suppose I can't do that till i see what the market is going to do - should also get a good payrise this year (later on).
you're not overstating the costs in Surrey. It costs that much because it does and as you say - if you want somewhere where you can ride as well and your horse is happy........
getting onto the 'property ladder' isn't easy and there are problems there as well - the cheapest housing around is usually on ex-council estates and I've recently moved off of one of those - mostly OK but there is an asbo 'order' on the whole area :-( due to trouble - on the upside - if you call the Police they do turn up !!!
Personally I'd wait and see and carry on as you are - there ARE forecasts of a downturn in property prices by the end of this year - so for now I'd sit tight and NOT buy a house - otherwise you could end up even worse - no horse and in 'negative equity' - I know guessing the house price trends is like crystal ball gazing but personally I'd wait 6 months and review the situation then - meanwhile I'd save hard so that if you decide to go for house in 6 months then
A: you'll have a bigger deposit
B: you'll maybe have found a nice sharer at your new yard
C: you could decide to change jobs to a different part of the country where houses are cheaper and keeping horses is cheaper so you can still have both
good luck
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Spooky - exactly what my dad just said to me! just weighing up the options now I guess but I suppose I can't do that till i see what the market is going to do - should also get a good payrise this year (later on).
horsegirl
Well-Known Member
Also I work full time and I have 2 teenage children and a husband to consider. Since I bought the horse I don't really buy much for myself anymore as most of the spare money I have goes on him.
I get home from work at about 6 - 6.30 I immediately start on dinner (usually something that can cook slowly in the oven for several hours) then I have a very quick coffee & sit down for 5 mins. I get my stable stuff on and I am down to the yard by 7 most days, 6.45 if I am really lucky. I ride or lunge and then muck out, feeds etc (my daughter usually does the feeds and then she rides while I muck out so he gets more exercise) I am usually back home between 8.30 (on a good day) and 9pm when I finish off dinner and we eat as soon as possible after that. It is a big commitment and some days I get home from work too late so we have to give the riding a miss and I just lunge for 20 mins so he isn't nuts the next day.
I get home from work at about 6 - 6.30 I immediately start on dinner (usually something that can cook slowly in the oven for several hours) then I have a very quick coffee & sit down for 5 mins. I get my stable stuff on and I am down to the yard by 7 most days, 6.45 if I am really lucky. I ride or lunge and then muck out, feeds etc (my daughter usually does the feeds and then she rides while I muck out so he gets more exercise) I am usually back home between 8.30 (on a good day) and 9pm when I finish off dinner and we eat as soon as possible after that. It is a big commitment and some days I get home from work too late so we have to give the riding a miss and I just lunge for 20 mins so he isn't nuts the next day.
JACQSZOO
Well-Known Member
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opinions but some of you are being a bit strong!
I would love to have him on DIY but you find me a yard near me with the facilities?
PG - i respect your decision - perhaps I'm just not as committed as you! I start work at 8am and work through till about 6 and don't have the option of working flexi hours - lucky you though as it sounds like an ideal solution for you.
JZ - I think you're right - not sure if I want to sacrifice owning my own house for TY - no matter how much I enjoy owning him.
I think maybe i'll see if I can get a sharer at the new yard - it's a lovely place so apparently they get alot of people coming to them looking to share - that would be ideal.
PS - love the way people get on their 'high horse' pardon the pun......reminds me of the working mothers argument that so many of my mates have lol x
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You asked for opnions and thats what you got! I'm not on any high horse
I am not suggesting that you shouldgo from full to DIY. What I am suggesting is that for an extra 10 mins of your time everyday could make huge differences to your costs. Its does'nt even need to affect the time spent at the yard. Instead of riding for 45mins every evening you could ride for 35 and still have time to muck out. TY still gets his excercise and you cut your costs quite significantly.
Perhaps you should post a timetable of what you do every evening and see if people can come up with with ways for you to fit in jobs that you would normally pay for?
opinions but some of you are being a bit strong!
I would love to have him on DIY but you find me a yard near me with the facilities?
PG - i respect your decision - perhaps I'm just not as committed as you! I start work at 8am and work through till about 6 and don't have the option of working flexi hours - lucky you though as it sounds like an ideal solution for you.
JZ - I think you're right - not sure if I want to sacrifice owning my own house for TY - no matter how much I enjoy owning him.
I think maybe i'll see if I can get a sharer at the new yard - it's a lovely place so apparently they get alot of people coming to them looking to share - that would be ideal.
PS - love the way people get on their 'high horse' pardon the pun......reminds me of the working mothers argument that so many of my mates have lol x
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You asked for opnions and thats what you got! I'm not on any high horse
I am not suggesting that you shouldgo from full to DIY. What I am suggesting is that for an extra 10 mins of your time everyday could make huge differences to your costs. Its does'nt even need to affect the time spent at the yard. Instead of riding for 45mins every evening you could ride for 35 and still have time to muck out. TY still gets his excercise and you cut your costs quite significantly.
Perhaps you should post a timetable of what you do every evening and see if people can come up with with ways for you to fit in jobs that you would normally pay for?
x_Hannah_x
Well-Known Member
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As much as I love horses my priorities go - nice house to live in/job that I love/time to enjoy other things/not worrying about how to pay the bills at the end of the month. If all those get a tick next to them then I know I'm in the right place to have a horse. I'd never sacrifice a home for a horse
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that is soo true! Personally I think horses are a luxury- they should only be had if you can truly afford one (time and money wise) otherwise it isnt really fair on anyone involved. I had to sell my mare because of my exams- I know its different to your situation but I had to make the sacrifice because in the future I want to go to Cambridge University and have a life that will allow me to have my horses, and be comforatbly well off. I had the choice to keep my mare- my parents are comfortably well off and it wasnt an issue, however I firmly believe that I wouldnt be a straight-A student now if it wasnt for the fact I sold my horse.
I think you really need to think about what comes first-house or horse and then try to think about how far you would be willing to go to maintain either of them. I still miss my girl every single hour of every day and quite often really regret making the decision to sell her- but, at the end of the day Im still young and I want to make the most of myself. You could always get a job riding other people's horses, like I have, I get fantastic money and the horses I ride are amazing!!
This is a tricky one but I really think you should think very carefully. Sorry I rambled!
As much as I love horses my priorities go - nice house to live in/job that I love/time to enjoy other things/not worrying about how to pay the bills at the end of the month. If all those get a tick next to them then I know I'm in the right place to have a horse. I'd never sacrifice a home for a horse
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that is soo true! Personally I think horses are a luxury- they should only be had if you can truly afford one (time and money wise) otherwise it isnt really fair on anyone involved. I had to sell my mare because of my exams- I know its different to your situation but I had to make the sacrifice because in the future I want to go to Cambridge University and have a life that will allow me to have my horses, and be comforatbly well off. I had the choice to keep my mare- my parents are comfortably well off and it wasnt an issue, however I firmly believe that I wouldnt be a straight-A student now if it wasnt for the fact I sold my horse.
I think you really need to think about what comes first-house or horse and then try to think about how far you would be willing to go to maintain either of them. I still miss my girl every single hour of every day and quite often really regret making the decision to sell her- but, at the end of the day Im still young and I want to make the most of myself. You could always get a job riding other people's horses, like I have, I get fantastic money and the horses I ride are amazing!!
This is a tricky one but I really think you should think very carefully. Sorry I rambled!
LauraBR
Well-Known Member
If the mucking out side of things isn't something you enjoy (I say that because there are people who get a lot of pleasure out of the day to day poo shovelling type 'care' stuff) and you are only hacking at weekends then put in simple terms...
... you are paying about £100 for weekend hacks every weekend?
Of course it not as black and white as that but why not save yourself the stress and hassle and hack out at a riding school/friends horse etc instead... be one hell of a lot cheaper and less stress?
Not sure I could justify that kind of cost for weekend hacking, unless it is just for the winter months and you'll have more time to ride him during the summer.
Just think you are not exactly getting your moneys worth
... you are paying about £100 for weekend hacks every weekend?
Of course it not as black and white as that but why not save yourself the stress and hassle and hack out at a riding school/friends horse etc instead... be one hell of a lot cheaper and less stress?
Not sure I could justify that kind of cost for weekend hacking, unless it is just for the winter months and you'll have more time to ride him during the summer.
Just think you are not exactly getting your moneys worth
SSM
Well-Known Member
Get yourself on a good DIY yard and you will find yourself sharing chores - I turnout on weekday mornings but she is brought in for me in the evening, I have Saturday mornings off and only turn out one in three on Sundays. Like you I work full time but I try and ride or lunge every eveing and am home by 7.30 to begin the housewife job!!!!!!
I personally think DIY is so so satisfying, you really do build a bond with your horse the more you do for them, especially in the food department!!!!!!!!!!
I personally think DIY is so so satisfying, you really do build a bond with your horse the more you do for them, especially in the food department!!!!!!!!!!
Parkranger
Well-Known Member
Good point. I seriously don't mind mucking out but it's really hard to find a decent DIY yard.
Before work is just not an option for me - I have to be there too early and have to go to work not smelling like a walking muckheap! Don't mind mucking him out at all but I'm a bit stumped at finding a decent yard that will jsut do the odd bit like chucking out and bringin in. Seems to be all or nothing if you know what I mean.
Hopefully this near yard will bring me a good sharer! lol
Before work is just not an option for me - I have to be there too early and have to go to work not smelling like a walking muckheap! Don't mind mucking him out at all but I'm a bit stumped at finding a decent yard that will jsut do the odd bit like chucking out and bringin in. Seems to be all or nothing if you know what I mean.
Hopefully this near yard will bring me a good sharer! lol
horsegirl
Well-Known Member
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Sell the horse, thats your deposite. Ride someone elses horse or share theres. Once you are on the property ladder it gets easier as time goes on.
But then you got to decide what you want in life. Life is too short as it is.
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unless TY is worth a FORTUNE there is no way he could be anywhere the deposit for house/flat in Surrey.
Sell the horse, thats your deposite. Ride someone elses horse or share theres. Once you are on the property ladder it gets easier as time goes on.
But then you got to decide what you want in life. Life is too short as it is.
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unless TY is worth a FORTUNE there is no way he could be anywhere the deposit for house/flat in Surrey.
Parkranger
Well-Known Member
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If the mucking out side of things isn't something you enjoy (I say that because there are people who get a lot of pleasure out of the day to day poo shovelling type 'care' stuff) and you are only hacking at weekends then put in simple terms...
... you are paying about £100 for weekend hacks every weekend?
Of course it not as black and white as that but why not save yourself the stress and hassle and hack out at a riding school/friends horse etc instead... be one hell of a lot cheaper and less stress?
Not sure I could justify that kind of cost for weekend hacking, unless it is just for the winter months and you'll have more time to ride him during the summer.
Just think you are not exactly getting your moneys worth
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He gets exercised in the week but I need a floodlit school due to work - another reason why DIY wouldn't work as they tend to be 'schoolless' aorund my way. That really would be a false economy as he'd just stand in his stable all day during the week in the winter - and probably kill me at the weekend!
If the mucking out side of things isn't something you enjoy (I say that because there are people who get a lot of pleasure out of the day to day poo shovelling type 'care' stuff) and you are only hacking at weekends then put in simple terms...
... you are paying about £100 for weekend hacks every weekend?
Of course it not as black and white as that but why not save yourself the stress and hassle and hack out at a riding school/friends horse etc instead... be one hell of a lot cheaper and less stress?
Not sure I could justify that kind of cost for weekend hacking, unless it is just for the winter months and you'll have more time to ride him during the summer.
Just think you are not exactly getting your moneys worth
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He gets exercised in the week but I need a floodlit school due to work - another reason why DIY wouldn't work as they tend to be 'schoolless' aorund my way. That really would be a false economy as he'd just stand in his stable all day during the week in the winter - and probably kill me at the weekend!
Parkranger
Well-Known Member
I suppose the decision is harder since splitting up with ex. Went from having a 3 bed lovely house and a horse to liviing in a rented one bed house and having to contemplate selling the one thing that's got me through that shitty time.
Please, get your violins out! xxx
Please, get your violins out! xxx
x_Hannah_x
Well-Known Member
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Sell the horse, thats your deposite. Ride someone elses horse or share theres. Once you are on the property ladder it gets easier as time goes on.
But then you got to decide what you want in life. Life is too short as it is.
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unless TY is worth a FORTUNE there is no way he could be anywhere the deposit for house/flat in Surrey.
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Yes but she would be saivng £550 a month.. that, over an amount of time is quite alot!
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Sell the horse, thats your deposite. Ride someone elses horse or share theres. Once you are on the property ladder it gets easier as time goes on.
But then you got to decide what you want in life. Life is too short as it is.
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unless TY is worth a FORTUNE there is no way he could be anywhere the deposit for house/flat in Surrey.
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Yes but she would be saivng £550 a month.. that, over an amount of time is quite alot!
horsegirl
Well-Known Member
but would it be saved? I wasn't saving £300 a month before I got my horse I was just spending it on other things
x_Hannah_x
Well-Known Member
Well, if you are committed, then yes. My parents still give me the money they spent on my horse and conjoin(is that a word?! lol) it with my allowance into my bank account. I dont really know why Im saving it- Its just nice to see lots of numbers on my bank statements
LauraBR
Well-Known Member
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If the mucking out side of things isn't something you enjoy (I say that because there are people who get a lot of pleasure out of the day to day poo shovelling type 'care' stuff) and you are only hacking at weekends then put in simple terms...
... you are paying about £100 for weekend hacks every weekend?
Of course it not as black and white as that but why not save yourself the stress and hassle and hack out at a riding school/friends horse etc instead... be one hell of a lot cheaper and less stress?
Not sure I could justify that kind of cost for weekend hacking, unless it is just for the winter months and you'll have more time to ride him during the summer.
Just think you are not exactly getting your moneys worth
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He gets exercised in the week but I need a floodlit school due to work - another reason why DIY wouldn't work as they tend to be 'schoolless' aorund my way. That really would be a false economy as he'd just stand in his stable all day during the week in the winter - and probably kill me at the weekend!
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Sorry, I wasn't suggesting DIY, I was asking whether you would be better off riding other peoples horses at the weekends rather than have this huge expense of having your own. £500 pm makes for v expensive weekend hacking.
As I said, I appreciate it is not as black and white as that but on paper, financially speaking, it makes more sense.
*and when did horses ever make financial sense* I hear you all cry lol!
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If the mucking out side of things isn't something you enjoy (I say that because there are people who get a lot of pleasure out of the day to day poo shovelling type 'care' stuff) and you are only hacking at weekends then put in simple terms...
... you are paying about £100 for weekend hacks every weekend?
Of course it not as black and white as that but why not save yourself the stress and hassle and hack out at a riding school/friends horse etc instead... be one hell of a lot cheaper and less stress?
Not sure I could justify that kind of cost for weekend hacking, unless it is just for the winter months and you'll have more time to ride him during the summer.
Just think you are not exactly getting your moneys worth
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He gets exercised in the week but I need a floodlit school due to work - another reason why DIY wouldn't work as they tend to be 'schoolless' aorund my way. That really would be a false economy as he'd just stand in his stable all day during the week in the winter - and probably kill me at the weekend!
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Sorry, I wasn't suggesting DIY, I was asking whether you would be better off riding other peoples horses at the weekends rather than have this huge expense of having your own. £500 pm makes for v expensive weekend hacking.
As I said, I appreciate it is not as black and white as that but on paper, financially speaking, it makes more sense.
*and when did horses ever make financial sense* I hear you all cry lol!
lillie07
Well-Known Member
There are lots of DIY yards around Epsom/ Banstead
Maybe not quite as nice as the Part/ Full ones you have been looking at but perfectly adequate.
It all comes down to how much you want to keep your horse- if you want to keep him and buy a house then DIY looks like your only option. If not the best thing to do would probably be to sell him and ride friends horses/ go to a riding school or even consider sharing somebody elses horse and maybe buying again when you can afford it.
It all comes down to how much you want to keep your horse- if you want to keep him and buy a house then DIY looks like your only option. If not the best thing to do would probably be to sell him and ride friends horses/ go to a riding school or even consider sharing somebody elses horse and maybe buying again when you can afford it.
Parkranger
Well-Known Member
[ QUOTE ]
There are lots of DIY yards around Epsom/ Banstead
Maybe not quite as nice as the Part/ Full ones you have been looking at but perfectly adequate.
It all comes down to how much you want to keep your horse- if you want to keep him and buy a house then DIY looks like your only option. If not the best thing to do would probably be to sell him and ride friends horses/ go to a riding school or even consider sharing somebody elses horse and maybe buying again when you can afford it.
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Please PM me details - i'd love to know where they are!
There are lots of DIY yards around Epsom/ Banstead
It all comes down to how much you want to keep your horse- if you want to keep him and buy a house then DIY looks like your only option. If not the best thing to do would probably be to sell him and ride friends horses/ go to a riding school or even consider sharing somebody elses horse and maybe buying again when you can afford it.
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Please PM me details - i'd love to know where they are!
Sarah1
Well-Known Member
Hi!
It's an awful situation that you're in and one I wouldn't wish on anyone.
I must say that I agree with P_G! Lots of us work full time and have to fit in caring for our horses round that, as well as having a house to run and not to mention making time for family and friends - it's not easy but it can be done if you are willing.
I myself work full time, I work 20-30 mins away from home depending on the traffic and the yard is 10 mins away from home.
So, I finish work at 5:30pm (on a good day) then go home to change, then go to the yard and muck out etc.
I have a young horse who is just returning to work after 9 months out with back problems - he needs regular exercise.
Sometimes I don't get home til almost 9pm and then have to think about tea and spending some time with OH - it's hard and I'm shattered but I manage it because I know I have to!
My horse isn't worked every night but providing the school isn't flooded he does something 2 - 3 times a week then both Saturday and Sunday.
I don't always ride, I have a Pessoa so sometimes I stick him in that for 20 mins, he's working hard but I'm not spending hours at the yard. Win, win I think you call it!
Could you not make an effort to find a decent DIY yard and lunge him a couple of times during the week if you don't have the time to ride and muck out?!
Obviously your decision at the end of the day and like you said some people are more dedicated than others but wouldn't it be worth a try befor parting with your beloved horse and/or not getting on the property ladder?
It's an awful situation that you're in and one I wouldn't wish on anyone.
I must say that I agree with P_G! Lots of us work full time and have to fit in caring for our horses round that, as well as having a house to run and not to mention making time for family and friends - it's not easy but it can be done if you are willing.
I myself work full time, I work 20-30 mins away from home depending on the traffic and the yard is 10 mins away from home.
So, I finish work at 5:30pm (on a good day) then go home to change, then go to the yard and muck out etc.
I have a young horse who is just returning to work after 9 months out with back problems - he needs regular exercise.
Sometimes I don't get home til almost 9pm and then have to think about tea and spending some time with OH - it's hard and I'm shattered but I manage it because I know I have to!
My horse isn't worked every night but providing the school isn't flooded he does something 2 - 3 times a week then both Saturday and Sunday.
I don't always ride, I have a Pessoa so sometimes I stick him in that for 20 mins, he's working hard but I'm not spending hours at the yard. Win, win I think you call it!
Could you not make an effort to find a decent DIY yard and lunge him a couple of times during the week if you don't have the time to ride and muck out?!
Obviously your decision at the end of the day and like you said some people are more dedicated than others but wouldn't it be worth a try befor parting with your beloved horse and/or not getting on the property ladder?
Hedgewitch13
Well-Known Member
That happened to me - I escaped from my control freak ex and only got 20 grand for 16 years with him. I didn't go through solicitors (stupid me) because I left him.
I refused to give my horse up (she's on DIY, on basic own brands feeds and the picture of health!), stayed with my parents for 6 months then bought a run down house in the grottiest area locally (Gosport if anyone wants to know!) oh and Northern Rock were the only company that would lend me the mortgage money.. I bought clothes from charity shops, did loads of DIY on the house myself and was still £350 overdrawn at the end of every month to boot!
But 5 years on it has got better. Financially I can cope but I did end up having to get a lodger for 2 years (she's just moved on and I'm hoping I can still cope). It hasn't been easy and I still can't afford to move to a better area but the house is mine and no-one can take that away from me.
I don't mean to sound smug or anything - it was tough so I know what you are going through.
I think moving your horse is probably the easiest way to cut down on expenses plus things like mobile contracts, cutting down on nights out (if you have them) and generally being tight with your money!
How about getting a financial advisor in to help you out? Maybe they could point out where money could be saved. I hope you can come up with something that suits your lifestyle.
I refused to give my horse up (she's on DIY, on basic own brands feeds and the picture of health!), stayed with my parents for 6 months then bought a run down house in the grottiest area locally (Gosport if anyone wants to know!) oh and Northern Rock were the only company that would lend me the mortgage money.. I bought clothes from charity shops, did loads of DIY on the house myself and was still £350 overdrawn at the end of every month to boot!
But 5 years on it has got better. Financially I can cope but I did end up having to get a lodger for 2 years (she's just moved on and I'm hoping I can still cope). It hasn't been easy and I still can't afford to move to a better area but the house is mine and no-one can take that away from me.
I don't mean to sound smug or anything - it was tough so I know what you are going through.
I think moving your horse is probably the easiest way to cut down on expenses plus things like mobile contracts, cutting down on nights out (if you have them) and generally being tight with your money!
How about getting a financial advisor in to help you out? Maybe they could point out where money could be saved. I hope you can come up with something that suits your lifestyle.
Parkranger
Well-Known Member
Don't mind cutting out night's out - already done that!
I would be a complete fool to quit a band who's on the verge of being signed so that's not an option. I have to dedicate a certain amount of time to that so that can't be changed - hence the reason he's always been on assisted/full livery.
Don't mind spending my evenings up the stable but I just think that a horse should come into a clean stable and hay and not have to stand in his own [****] for 2 hours waiting for mum to come up! I have to be at work for 7.30 some mornings so there's no way I'm getting up at 5am to muck him out, get home shower and be in work on time....maybe that's a lack of committement but I don't know many people who would do that!
I would be a complete fool to quit a band who's on the verge of being signed so that's not an option. I have to dedicate a certain amount of time to that so that can't be changed - hence the reason he's always been on assisted/full livery.
Don't mind spending my evenings up the stable but I just think that a horse should come into a clean stable and hay and not have to stand in his own [****] for 2 hours waiting for mum to come up! I have to be at work for 7.30 some mornings so there's no way I'm getting up at 5am to muck him out, get home shower and be in work on time....maybe that's a lack of committement but I don't know many people who would do that!
wizzi901
Well-Known Member
am I being thick? - how far is your job from your horse?
I have 2 horses, a pony, a 7 year old child (a partner who is not "into kids" LOL hence essentially a single mother, work full time Mon - Fri, and manage to ride or lunge at least 2 of the 3 in rota most days?
Why do you need neddy on full livery? it's nice but you wont be able to have house and do full livery if you are on your own, believe me I tried! LOL!
You have to let something give somewhere.....sounds like going DIY with assisted turnout would do you great, or let him live out and get some exercise. If you work full time but have to do extra silly hours then is it worth having a horse at all?
I dunno, Its a struggle either way I suppose, but that is a lot of money you are losing, my three cost me approx £400 a month and that is in Berkshire which isnt cheap either.
I have 2 horses, a pony, a 7 year old child (a partner who is not "into kids" LOL hence essentially a single mother, work full time Mon - Fri, and manage to ride or lunge at least 2 of the 3 in rota most days?
Why do you need neddy on full livery? it's nice but you wont be able to have house and do full livery if you are on your own, believe me I tried! LOL!
You have to let something give somewhere.....sounds like going DIY with assisted turnout would do you great, or let him live out and get some exercise. If you work full time but have to do extra silly hours then is it worth having a horse at all?
I dunno, Its a struggle either way I suppose, but that is a lot of money you are losing, my three cost me approx £400 a month and that is in Berkshire which isnt cheap either.