Separation advice

[Olliepoppy]

Hi, my 6 year old is getting a companion in a couple of weeks. She will be retired so will be unable to come out with him on hacks. Does anyone have any advice on how to deal with potential separation issues that may occur? Thanks in advance

 

[oldie48]

Depends on which horse has the separation issues. Generally I've found my horses have been happy to leave their companion to hack out or school but have been less happy to be left in the field on their own, so I've always put the other horse in a stable with a haynet and they've been fine. I take the view, why have a horse galloping round shouting if you can avoid it. I think if your 6 year old has had a tendency towards being nappy, you might initially have a bit of a problem and i'd probably try to give him company for a little while until he understands that his new friend is going to be there when he gets home. Two horses together can get a bit clingy and frankly I feel it doesn't suit every horse, especially if they've been used to a large herd environment. some years ago I had a horse that became very difficult to handle and ride because of separation issues when we moved to our own yard. I didn't have the experience or confidence to deal with what was becoming a potentially dangerous situation, so he was sold to someone who kept him on a big professional yard and he was fine. Such a pity as he was the safest horse to ride in company but just couldn't cope on his own!I'm sure you'll be fine if your horse is a fairly confident chap and I think the more you can keep your 6 year old in his routine, the better he'll be. I hope it all works out well for you.

 

[catroo]

As above I'd put the mare in a stable with a hay and then hack out as normal, don't expect there to be an issue.

If you are concerned then put the mare in the stable and exercise in the fields if poss so they are separated but not far away, you could do this a few times so they both get the idea and realise all is well.

 

[Pearlsasinger]

Start as you mean to go on.

As suggested bring the mare into a stable with something to eat when you intend to take the ridden horse out. Just treat the going out as matter of fact, something that has to be done.

 

[Olliepoppy]

Thanks for the advice, he isn't nappy but the mares owner thinks she may get attached so thanks for advising on ways to handle it :-D