retirement or bullet?

There are so many horses on the market who are sound (or 'sound') which are struggling to find homes. Though he is rideable, becoming a risk when ridden poses yourself with a few issues - there aren't many homes out there wanting retirement horses, especially those who need bolting issues resolving. There are homes out there, but not many and certainly going back and forth to check on him is another consideration. What if the home isn't right and he has to be taken away from it? Where would he go? If he were to be loaned out, and he injured someone, you would then potentially find yourself at the point of blame due to already knowing he is like this, regardless of how much they were informed.

At 24, while not 'ancient' he's still had a good life. I would let him go peacefully knowing he is not going to be passed from home to home, spending out his days miserable in a field or causing yourself unnecessary worry.

He will not, and does not understand the concept of time like you do. In his world, it makes little difference when he 'goes' either tomorrow or in 3 months time, only that he may feel a little colder now than in March.

It's by far an easy choice to make, my own 36 year old has been retired since 30/31. Though expensive, I'm happy with how he is, though he will eventually have to leave me, be it in a month or in 6 months time. I am lucky that while studying, I am able to see him daily, though if it were him in your situation, I would also say goodnight.
 
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I'm trying to rehome my 15yo WB who is mechanically lame (all checks done by vet (x-rays etc.),farrier,physio and nobody can find a reason), not pain related as bute trials do nothing. He's also perfectly happy and doesn't seem to know he's lame. I've of course stopped jumping him completely now and because he's such a good hack and very gentlemanly to ride and handle, I figured someone might like him as a nice hack (as I don't like hacking). But its been hell trying to find a home for him. I would never put mine to sleep though, would only ever do that if a horse was unhappy. But Im in a position where I can keep him. Its a tough one OP, are there any yards round you that offer retirement livery? I've heard of some places that do that.
 
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