My horse has lost his field mate :-(

[Derfette]

Need some ideas and suggestions from you please ..... my horse has recently lost his field mate who was PTS. They had spent over 2 years together. My boy does seem to be "depressed", if that's the right word, and I was wondering if anyone had ideas on how I could try and make things better for him. He's 21 years old and has spent most of his time with me with a field companion. He has 2 little shetlands in the same field but there is an electric fence separating them. Anyone any ideas??

 

[Samboy1004]

Y not buy him a little friend

 

[indie999]

oh sorry to hear that. My old boy I bought him a companion , after we lost another old horse he lived with(I tried all the rescue places drove 3hours to Norfolk etc etc ) so I bought. But long story he ended up back on his own(he appeared fine but a bit like yours a tad depressed) So I moved to another field where over the fence were some horses and boy he really perked up confirming my suspicion of sadness etc. He would wait diligently for them to come out every day. He was so much happier to have them.

So I know they should be with other equines etc old boy proved the point. Can you not take the electric fence down and let him in with the Shetties? Problem solved.

I didnt get a replacement pony as a companion for my old boy as he was supposed to be the companion when I was going to get another. But they do prefer company. Good luck. What a shame.

 

[Derfette]

Unfortunately, like alot of people, my financial and work situation, dictates that I'm unable to get another, I don't always have enough time for 1 horse without worrying about another. Maybe I'm just being impatient and just need to give him time to adjust. Letting him in with the shets is an option, just need to be sure he'll behave, as he has been known to be rather dominating with little ones before!

 

[kate79]

I've just moved my 2 girls, they have been on there own for 2 and half years together, went out same time bought in same time they were best friends.. Unfortunately I moved home and couldn't find a yard for both.. One of mine is retired mid 20s and other 12 year old in full work.. The older mare is at the end of my road keeping friends with 2 shettys and happy as anything.. The 12 year old has gone to a yard with facilities that I needed!!! She has been there few weeks and still not settling it is getting there day by day!!! She's not out with others which she's struggled with as she loves other ponies x

 

[Twinkley Lights]

Unfortunately, like alot of people, my financial and work situation, dictates that I'm unable to get another, I don't always have enough time for 1 horse without worrying about another. Maybe I'm just being impatient and just need to give him time to adjust. Letting him in with the shets is an option, just need to be sure he'll behave, as he has been known to be rather dominating with little ones before!

So sorry , he might be different with the Shets now his pair bond has gone. My mare was like this for a few days after we lost our darling old chap - she was better within a week and much more interested in the other horses than before and more affectionate with us.