When do you take the plunge?

Sarah W

Sarah W

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31 August 2010
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Tomar, Portugal
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I'm mindful of opening myself up to criticism from the 'I've known horses from when I was in the womb' bods but I'm hoping for some realistic advice....please!

I have one veteran (26) horse on full livery - bought him last October as my first horse and retired him (on my instructors advice) in April. I have just bought another horse for hacking, schooling and some baby-step jumping who will also be on full livery at the same yard from next week, at least initially. I love going there but it's run so efficiently I sometimes feel like a bit of a spare part who is permitted to poo pick if I get there early enough.

However....I have recently bought a small farmhouse which I need to renovate with two (potential) paddocks which is just across the valley from my current house and I would love to have my own horses at home. I know what I need to do about fencing, providing water and food, shelter (there's a perfect barn). I (hope) I'm a very conscientious animal owner - I have 4 dogs who are happy and healthy - and I know the YO where my horse is now will help along with other knowledgeable people, including my horse mad vet, in the area. Having said that I don't want to be pain in the arse to all concerned!

Arrrghhhh - I AM getting to the point! So how do I make the leap from livery client to DIYallonmyowngetonwithit owner? What are the classic mistakes? What are the 'duh' moments?

Any success/horror/wise after the event stories very much appreciated.

Obrigada!
 
Hi I found doing some horse courses eg Horse owners certificate really helped get my confidence to move my horses from livery to home. It doesn't tell you everything you need to know but I found it gave me a good enough grounding to provide a safe and happy home for my 3.

I also think its important to have regular contact with other horse people as keeping horses at home can be isolating at times. If only to bounce off ideas and help with ideas if you stumble across problems. I have regular lessons and talk through any stable management type issues with my instructor as well as the riding stuff, and also having a good relationship with the farrier / vet really helps.
 
we took the plunge several years ago when i broke my arm and couldnt justify full time livery, for no riding and benefits from it... to be honest.. we havent looked back!
i had a very good little pony, we needed to find him a companion and had to be Totally commited... (yes there were a couple of 8pm phone calls to the neighbour saying can you feed him etc) but we had great help, from a girl who came and rode once a week and checked everything was ticking and the lady who he was in livery with was very helpful
trying to keep the same routine and everything the same as it can be is very important . but you wont know yourself!.. its great! :D
 
Could you move to a diy yard while you get the farmhouse setup up and running? Then you could get used to doing your horse yourself, but have othr people around for help, company and advise while you learn.
 
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