New Horse - not settling

[Dovorian]

My latest purchase is a lovely chap but he really isn't settling into his new home. In fact it would be pretty accurate to say that his whole character has changed. I;ve known him for several years so am well aware of how is was before but now he's pretty miserable, stressy and anxious. Unfortunately 24/7 turnout with a friend is not an option where is is now, I've had him for a month and his weight is beginning to drop because of the charging around the field and heneral frustration. He had been out 24/7 for many months so I'm sure this is a root cause + he is not too pleased with the individual turnout where he can't 'speak' to othr horses.

So dilemma - do I expect him to change his home again in the space of a few weeks? My vet says better do it now rather than a couple of months down the line but other people say I should persevere.

BTW the change in character isn't feed related...... and he is sound and healthy in all physical senses.

 

[AmyMay]

Can't you get him a friend???? They just aren't designed to live on their own, and he is clearly stressing about it.

Agree with your vet - if your yard set up isn't going to suit him, then yes move him asap to somewhere with group turnout that will.

 

[ladylisa]

I agree that you should find a yard that would suit him better, asap, then you can start to bond and have some fun.

 

[iwtownsley]

i agree, also really try and bond with him.

i no this sounds stupid but talk to him and say thats it ok and theres nothing to stress about it because he can hear you!