Worrying

[JasminESmith]

I have recently got my first horse and I’m loving it but I also find myself constantly worrying about her and thinking something is wrong when she’s perfectly fine. Has anyone else felt like this and if so when do you start to relax.

 

[milliepops]

welcome to horse ownership
That never really goes away! you learn to relax about some things and at other times will have a constant low level of anxiety about them.
It's inevitable I think. You get used to it though Don't let it spoil your enjoyment of your horse, it's a fab way of life and will bring you lots of joy too.

 

[Cloball]

I only have a cat and I've always measured his respiratory rate today I dread to think what I'll be like when I buy the pony ?

 

[ycbm]

I have recently got my first horse and I’m loving it but I also find myself constantly worrying about her and thinking something is wrong when she’s perfectly fine. Has anyone else felt like this and if so when do you start to relax.

Ummm, I don't know, I'm hoping it's about 43 years because I've spent 42 years worrying about my horses so far ?

 

[ycbm]

My husband says "horses come with a worry box which is always full. If you can take something out of it then it will be replaced by something else. Welcome to the world of horse owning"

?

 

[jules9203]

The more you learn the more you'll worry but the enjoyment should outweigh the worry

 

[Chianti]

I think they are always at the back of your mind - weather, grass growth, field companions, rug choice - too hot/cold, rug fitting, livery yard, feed, hay, supplements, sound/ not, farrier, vet. The list is endless - sorry. It's also that the more you know the more you have to worry about. Apart from that it's all fun and your horse/ pony indicating in the slightest way that you are meaningful to them makes it worth while.

 

[Winters100]

Maybe I am going against the grain, but in all honesty I do not in general worry about my horses. If we run into problems I do my best to educate myself about the issues and deal with them in the best way, but for the most part I don't worry unless something is really wrong. I would say you should do your best to figure out who among your acquaintances is truly knowledgeable and experienced, get a good vet and farrier, and make sure that your livery arrangements are suitable for a new owner. Once you have this covered try to just enjoy your horse, and if issues arrive take professional advice. Good luck and enjoy your horse!

Edited to add that someone above mentioned worrying about rugging. Do not fall into the trap of thinking that your horse will die if it is a bit chilly for a few hours. Where I am is at the moment below freezing at 6am turnout time, and about +15 and sunny by 11am. They probably are a bit cold when they go out, but they can move, eat and can manage their temperature. Remember that a horse can tolerate a lot lower temperatures than us and do not fall into the trap of rugging unnecessarily as soon as you need a sweater.

 

[SO1]

My pony has given a great of joy and comfort but at the same also a lot of worry and sleepless nights.

Things that would have helped me reduce the worry would be being wealthy and having my own land.

I always said I wouldn't get another horse after this one as the worry is too much for me but he has been my constant friend during hard times and I don't know how I would have managed during the lockdown without hin whilst living on my own.

As he ages the vets stuff is getting more expensive and that is hard lucky I have put away money for these sort of scenarios for when he is not insured for ailments due to age or pre existing issues.

I have had my pony 14 years now and he is 19 now I just hope he continues to flourish for a long time. They take a special place in your hearts and this love is part of the joy but also part of the sorrow and worry when they are poorly or you are struggling to find the right yard.