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Charlie007

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Hi everyone, new to the forum and would appreciate your views. Horse is currently on his own on yard with no sign of anyone coming soon. He seems totally calm in and out of stable. His behaviour has not changed since his pal left in the summer. He can see another horse whilst he is turned out but not when stabled. We have a couple of big yards near us but why move him if he seems happy and he is virtually in my back garden!! Is it fair to keep him on his own??
 
Although horses are a herd animal & normally appreciate being in the company of other horses some are quite happy to be on their own. From what you say your horse seems contented so I would leave him as he is at the moment. In time other horses will probably come to the yard. If you horse's behaviour changes then you may need to reaccess the situation.
 
my friend keeps her pony in her grandmas back garden. he is a very happy pony and isnt bothered about horsey company - hes currently at my yard on holiday for the firework season. hes got a horsey friend at my yard and he hates her - he rams into her, attacks her and is generally a cantancorous (sp?) old git. however hes the most aimiable guy at his own home and at mine when hes not got other horses around.
so why not? if the horse is happy then i cant see a problem with it
 
Hi,

Are YOU happy with the situation? Do you WANT to move yards?

Personally, if the horse was happy, not fretting, losing weight, looking miserable etc then it isn't the end of the world if he is on his own. As said, lots of horses are and don't fall to bits because of it. In an ideal world most prefer company, but every situation is different and getting a companion isn't always that simple.

If you get a companion, then if your horse goes out, companion is stressy you may end up needing a companion for the companion.
 
Was thinking about companion but it doubles all the bills! I work full time and feel I couldn't offer another horse/pony time it would deserve. Thank you for your comments, and after reading other posts on horrible livery yards will keep him as he is as long as he is happy!!
 
Could you get some hens to keep him company - sounds funny but I think sometimes horses just like something to look at. At least you would get some eggs for your efforts! (would suggest little red ones as the most companionable1)
 
I have a shetland to keep my horse company - and it really doesnt double the bills as she doesnt need hard feed or alot of hay (she is stabled all year round as so is horse!). If you pay livery you could ask for reduce rate as the shetland is a companion - if u dont ask u dont get. Or maybe a sheep - ive seen horses with sheep friends which are happy too.

But I would move to a yard unless forced - you hear too many storys of grieff for my liking!
 
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