Have I done the right thing?

[Niddlynoo]

I have today decided to move my daughters pony from an assisted DIY (only need assistance because of limited turnout) to a yard which is basically a field (we'll buy a field shelter if needed) with about 8 acres for 4 horses and fantastic hacking.
The move came about because my daughters cannot always ride after school and only having 2-4 hrs turnout a day, in an individual field (he is the most sociable pony going) felt too unfair on the pony. We've only been there a couple of months but pony is obviously not happy, the indoor school is nice (but both my daughters prefer hacking - which isn't very safe where we are, lots of trail bikes burning around at weekends) and the people are friendly. I was told there would be more turnout before I moved but the fields are already trashed and no-one else wants to turn out. Where I'm moving to will be better for pony and my daughters will be able to ride out with friends from another yard up the road (another one with limited turnout!). Does it matter he won't be ridden as much in the winter months? He will be out pretty much 24/7, only in if the weather gets really bad (he is a Haflinger- so pretty tough) and he will have company of 3 others (4 when I go shopping in a month or so!)
Sorry for the long post, would just like some reasssurance that I'm doing the right thing!

 

[Horseback Rider]

Most (not all) horses are far happier being out 24/7 I moved my TB a year ago for this very reason and he is thriving on it he has been out nearly all winter with a friendly herd and he is still only in a mw rug and doing very well. It's far more natural for them to be out grazing constantly.

As for not riding as often if he is out he will be fine, he won't be stood in the field worrying or complaining about not doing any work ! Your daughters may need to remember that with less work he might need a little fitness work come spring.

Good luck x

 

[rascal]

Ponies are often happier and healthier living out. Our horses range in age from 3 to 28 yrs and all live out 24/7 and seem very happy about it. Our old horse has a shelter but the others dont, he is fenced off so the younger ones dont pinch his hay and feed.
Think you will find both your pony and your daughters will be much happier with their new found freedom!

 

[Tuffles 23]

Yes i think you've done the right thing

 

[PennyJ]

I'm sure you have.

My delicate flower NF pony has just spent his first winter living out since I bought him almost 6 years ago, and he is absolutely fine with it, far better than I had ever hoped. In fact he is better out than when he is stabled over night. No coughing this year for example, and also less rugging required as he can move about to keep warm, and most importantly of all, he is happy within himself. All this means, I am am happy too!

 

[Cocorules]

Sounds as though you have done exactly the right thing