Looking for a great situation for a really good horse...in MD

[seejp083]

I just thought I'd put some feelers out there and see if maybe I can find the perfect situation for my boy. I have a wonderful 15-16 year old 16.2 hand tb gelding. He's been-there-done-that, steeple chased, evented, done hunters, trail riding, but has developed some pretty severe arthritis and as a result is minimally rideable. I'm currently looking for a second horse, and while I can afford two, it would be a lot more financially comfortable if I only had to pay full board for one (me and everyone else in this economy!). I am fully prepared and intend to keep him for the rest of his life (I've had him for 8 years now and he's been nothing but a good boy for me), but I was just wondering if anyone in Maryland/PA is looking for a nice companion horse that can be used for very light riding (maybe one or two meandering trail rides a week!). He needs to be in a situation where he can be out 24/7 with a run-in and his blanket in the winter. I'm not willing to give him away as I plan to have him until he dies, I'm just looking for a great situation where he can retire and maybe I can save some money on his board. That being said, I am more than happy to help out with his expenses as his health and happiness are of huge importance to me. I would need to remain involved in his care. I know this is asking a lot and I'm not expecting much...I just thought it was worth posting just to see who's out there! Thanks for reading and Happy New Year!

[seejp083]

bump for the day...

[seejp083]

bump...again!

[seejp083]

one last bump...!

[Javasmom]

Just thinking... out all day and in a stall at night, or has to be a run in 24x7?

Thank you.

[seejp083]

Hi! He used to do very well in a stall (for the first 6 years I had him), but for the past two years he's really hated being in. He poops a ton, paces, and acts really nervous. He's generally a very laid back, easy-going guy...just not when he's in a stall anymore. He's even upset when other horses are in with him. He'd be much happier out 24/7 with a run-in.

[Javasmom]

OK, thanks for the info... my place won't work. Sorry. If I know of anyone I'll be sure to let them know about him.

[seejp083]

I would appreciate that. Thanks and best of luck finding a horse that will work for you!

[seejp083]

bump!

[seejp083]

one more bump!

[Pookah]

wish I had the perfect situation for him, but just wanted to say good for you for doing right by this horse!

[seejp083]

Thanks, Pookah! :-)

[seejp083]

bump!

[seejp083]

bump for the day!

[seejp083]

bump for the day :)

[Windswept Stable]

just a thought--if you can't rehome him--perhaps you can find a retirement situation with cheaper board than you are currently paying?
where are you in Maryland? Just so you could drive to check on him from time to time.

[seejp083]

Hi Windswept Stable,
Thanks for the suggestion. I don't really want to rehome him - I'm just looking for a great retirement situation for him. I'm either looking for a place for him to serve as a companion horse where he'll get the kind of attention he's used to (and where I can visit and help out with his care) or possibly a cheaper place to board him, like you suggested, that is close enough for me to visit him regularly. I would prefer a home for him as a companion, as he would have a "job" that isn't physically strenuous. I would be happy to help pay for his care and would want to remain involved in his care - like I said earlier, I'm most concerned about his health and happiness. I haven't been able to find a companion home for him that's outside 24/7 with a run-in and that is close enough for me to stop by at least two days a week (I've had a couple of very nice offers, but none of them have been the right situation for him - not enough turnout, too far from where I live, etc...), so I'm still looking. I'm not in a rush, it would just be nice to let him retire in a great situation! I'm located in Harford County, MD, so if you know of anyone/any place in the area I'm open to suggestions! Thanks again for your comments!