those with more than one horse

I have 3. All stabled at night (will swop in summer to be in during the day).

One is now retired and only gets taken out in hand around the lanes for 20 mins every couple of weeks or so. One is my sons pony and the other is fairly new for me to ride.

I suppose it does take me longer to do them all but I have just found a routine that works for me and having the 3rd one hasn't really added much in the way of time but has money wise.; insurance, full set shoes (have had barefoot neddies for years so this bit is a bit of a shock).

I now get to ride out with my son doing ride / lead (saves me walking :D). Or I can do ride / lead with just me and ponio to give her the exercise while I am exercising mine.

Good routine is essential.
 
Have obviously hit my head at some point as at my worst have had 11 in full work & competing....then had accident..reduced to 8..then 6...8 easier than 6 -11 was just insane but didn't realise till I reduced numbers! Lost one, then had 5 till dec 2011-now finding it harder with 4 than with 5 or 6...Always keep an even number, except 2!three is nice but four easier. Buy things in bulk & plan ahead..I could never have less than three intentionally tho ....time effort expense always increased, but totally depends on how you do things..I can get all mine done in the time it takes one of my friends to muck out ONE & feed him!...cheapest way is to have own yard..not be on a livery yard..tho you loose the back up & have to have a reliable groom/helper..I could not afford livery even when have own yard & paying a groom to cover when i can't..livery yards can take longer too depending on set up-how many people you chat to etc its very hard to tell...only advice is think it over carefully & don't fall into the 3,4,5,6 trap! its very little difference just adding one more every so often so you need to be strong mentally!I find it hits me worst when bills come in...ie farrier/dentist/innocs...2 is nice, but the start of a VERY slippery slope!!!!;-)
 
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It's hard but very rewarding as they are both so different in terms of schooling and personality. I only compete one though, it's too difficult to keep two fit AND all the chores (DIY livery with poor grazing, no school, and endless hay nets to make)
 
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