new horse - settling in alone...

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sfward

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Hi - I have just bought new horse and he will be living on his own at my dad's farm for a few months until we get our new yard sorted. I feel a bit guilty and worried about him having to live alone for a while, but at the same time getting a companion of any sort is not really an option, financially or practically, and even if it was I've found having two is a nightmare as they get so clingy, which doesn't help anyone!
I was wondering if there was anything I could do to help him settle in better on his own? Eg. getting a stable mirror (no good for field though and the plan was for him to live out). Any ideas?
 
May not be practical advice but if it were me I would just turn him out and see what happens. If he begins to stress then I would just try spend as much time with him as possible, riding, grooming, etc so that he doesn't feel too alone. Do you have any other livestock at all that he could possible be turned out next to/with?
 
Thanks, that was the plan; I expect he'll whinny for a day or two then hopefully settle down. It's an arable farm so no livestock at all
frown.gif
Had thought about getting a goat/sheep but it's not my farm and dad wasn't too happy about the idea.
 
pmsl - true!! are sheep like goats ie you have to have a licence from DEFRA to keep them? Also would they chew post and rail fences?
 
i would always rather have some sort of companion for a horse be it a shetty or a sheep.

whats ur new horse like then :P details please
smile.gif
 
Well so would I, but needs must unfortunately.
He's 7 year old dark brown gelding, jumping bloodlines (Concorde and Voltaire) crossed with some pony I think!
 
i must agree, some company would be best. especially as new home. stress can cause alot of long term problems, could you not borrow a pony from someone, good luck to you both x
 
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