New Horse - Best Way To Help Him Settle In?

[Happy Hack 3013]

Hi, this is my first post on here. I have been riding for about twelve years and have owned my own horses in the past. I am currently looking for a new horse, and I have been offered an ex racer for a token sum. He is a nine year old gelding. He was reschooled about three years ago and was good under saddle, 100% in traffic etc. He is very nice to work around, quiet big sort of horse.

He currently lives out and has been off work due to lack of time for a couple of years. So he would obviously need a few months to come back into work, which I don't mind. He is in good condition, but needs his feet done and his jabs are due, I am guessing teeth will also need checking. And due to a wind op whilst in racing he will never be able to compete. I hope to use him as a light hack but I am happy to keep him as a companion if need be, as I really like his temperament. He has had a hard life but it hasn't made him nasty, and I just want to give him a nice retirement.

My question is, how can I best help him adjust to life on a new yard? He is used to living out and does fly buck going into the stable, so I think grass livery would suit him best? I am currently trying to source the best yard for him, and I want to get him the right sort of home. He is not the first horse I have owned, but he will be my first ex-racer, so I really want to get this right!

He has the issue with his wind, a cracked hoof, and the fly bucking when stabled, but he appeals to me as he is very easy to work around and seems friendly but not pushy. I suppose he will be uninsurable vet wise, but do you think I can still get mortality and theft cover? I am a gold member of the BHS, so I have the liability side of things sorted. He has a passport, I have seen it and it seems real but obviously the vet will need to check his microchip, etc.

Thank you, sorry no pictures yet, but he is really lovely!

 

[paddi22]

How exciting, best of luck with him! Ex racers are fab!

i had horses since i was a tiny kid but got a tricky exracer in my mid 30's and it was a completely new learning experience!

Keeping him at grass livery sounds like a wise option. My one was a nightmare to ride but a sweetheart on the ground, but we gradually most of the issues sorted (touch wood!) and now i absolutely adore him, i have and have had other horse but i've never had as deep a bond as i have with him, he is just so affectionate and sweet.

with your one, If he was mine i'd find a grass livery yard and spend a few weeks just leading him round and doing groundwork, walking him on the road, and in the school over poles. No pressure stuff, just bonding, relaxing and fun. Then i'd bring in lunging and long lining.

Once your base education is strong the riding part will come easy. You sound like a very senstive owener, so no doubt you'l be able to provide him a great home. Post loads of pics!!