What to do / Re-homing the Only Pasture Sound Horse?

[Dressage.For.Life.]

Long story short for the past 6 months I’ve been working on getting a diagnosis for my horse’s chronic lameness. It was thought to just be weakness before one vet said it was a bone spavin after doing radiographs (joint injections of two lower joints of hock did nothing). After consulting with some vets they were thinking maybe stifle or hip. New vet found severe suspensory problems…pretty poor prognosis.
Suspensory problems heal surprisingly well in a mere two months. Horse is still lame when being re-introduced to work.

Suspensory problems are now healed but we’ve blocked the suspensory 3 times now with no significant improvement. He blocked sound when blocking the hock (not the individual hock joints but when blocking from the hock down) so hip and stifle problems are out. We injected all the hock joints just recently and he showed some improvement but was not perfect…took new radiographs (past were done in Nov.) of the hock and we might have found something. We were able to get it to appear multiple times and if it really is there, the prognosis is poor; There may be no treatment options. Head vet will be back in town at beginning of the week so he will look at the new radiographs and they may be sent on to a radiologist as well.

My problem? I can’t have two horses now. If I keep my horse, it’d be a while before I could get another horse. On top of that my horse is quite young (1o this year). Moving this guy to a cheaper place isn’t really possible…What would you do? Keep him and basically put your riding on hold until you could later get another horse?

I’ve thought maybe free leasing him out (or *gulp* giving him away), to someone who wants a pasture pet would be the best option (only if I could find the right person) but there’s a lot to it and It seems that just so much could go wrong. Have any of you ever done anything like that before? I’d only consider it myself if a contract was written, stating that I’d like to occasionally still see him and frequently get updates on him (basically, the person leasing / taking him and I would have to “click” just as much as him and the person / situation). Is all of that unreasonable? If I gave him away, would it be reasonable to say that I’d take him back if they weren’t / couldn’t properly take care of him?

So, what would you do? Do any of you have experience in similar cases? Any advice would be much appreciated as this has been really hard on me. TIA.

[Meredith Clark]

I've had good success with the "Giveaway" forum on COTH but make sure you check your references...

I've also put down a young horse that had a poor prognosis (breathing) that many rescues and other people offered to take and try to rehab. I didn't believe (and my vets supported me) that she would improve and I didn't want to risk her going to a home that would let her suffer.

Best of luck with whatever you decide. :yes:

[magicteetango]

Well... it would be really difficult to find him a pasture home. There are so many horses that are in just your situation. You mentioned that moving him to cheaper board is not an option, what, if you don't mind me asking, are you paying for board now? Perhaps there would be a cheaper option. Or maybe you could rent a pasture with a shed or a barn to keep this guy and a new horse? That's what I've wound up doing to afford my three.

Good luck!

[SMF11]

There are very few homes that want a pasture pet.

You might get lucky and find one, but do check references very carefully as we've all heard of reasonable-sounding people taking in these horses only to sell them on at auction right away.

If you, who know and love this horse, don't want to pay for his care for years to come, why do you think anyone else does?

That said, if you advertise him as a companion, if you offer to take him back if needed, and pay for vet and farrier bills, you will make him a much more attractive proposition to take on.

Best of luck to you.

[chemteach]

There are very few homes that want a pasture pet.


If you, who know and love this horse, don't want to pay for his care for years to come, why do you think anyone else does?



Sorry, but this is how I feel. I understand the frustration you are experiencing, I've been there. Be careful and best of luck to you and your horse.

[BuddyRoo]

Not trying to be a jerk here...

But if you're not able (and willing) to pay for his care.....who WILL be? It's a tremendous thing to do when you LOVE a horse and have a CONNECTION to a horse....much more to expect of a stranger.

I vote....retire him appropriately and get another horse when you can afford it -or- euth.

Rehoming is a real long shot. Not impossible.....but difficult. Especially right now.

I'm really sorry.

I kept my old guy for 6 years past his "usefulness". To the tune of 1k/mo. It was HARD. It meant that I could not lesson or show. I did it. But in hindsight I may have put him down sooner since I knew he'd never be okay. It was just that he'd given me so much...I just couldn't let him go before it seemed like the right time. That's me though. That's not for everyone.

[SquishTheBunny]

I dont find it wrong to "give" away a horse, but only if the horse can be useful to someone, and if there is someone who really wants the horse. A lame pasture ornament doesnt attract too many people, no matter how awesome he is.

Are there no barns in your state that offer cheaper pasture board? If you can find a situation for him that is cheaper cost, maybe you could afford to part-board another horse until you had the finances to own again? Also, check around, maybe there are some horses in your area that just need exercising? That way you wouldnt have to put your riding career on hold.

Everyone feels a little differently about the subject, but unless there is a home out there who could benefit from having him, you are likely going to find it difficult to place him and even with a contract, Ive known horses to end up at auctions.

[buck22]

Yep. And yes, I basically put my riding on hold. In my case it was my then 20yr old. He became chronically lame, no vet could really figure it out, I could only afford the keep and care for one, he was my first horse and one and only love, and he was too happy and full of verve to put down. I'm not judging, I just couldn't do it to him, he was too happy being my buddy. So, became dedicated to making him happy. Fortunately I boarded at a busy barn at the time, and the hack string needed tune ups, people needed buddies for lessons, or someone needed their horse ridden, so I got my riding time in here and there. I cared for my gimpy boy 6 days a week, for 3 long years. I shed a lot of tears, and I doubted my choice to shovel every dime I made onto a horse that had zero future, but, I couldn't help it... there is a lot of water under our bridge, and I felt I owed him every opportunity.

Yes, you can give a horse away with the clause that it never be sold, or you have first right of refusal, basically any clause you want. It is done, but that doesn't mean its always followed, sadly. It is entirely possible to discover your horse was sold to auction anyhow, or ended up emaciated, or colicked because your instructions weren't followed, etc. I was, at one point, lining up a home to give my oldster away to, but then I started writing up the contract..... liabilities stopped me in my tracks, and I backed out of the deal.

Through a series of events, I ended up being able to board him in a situation where I could have two horses for what I was paying for one. Over the years, my oldster made a remarkable comeback, we had a few more years riding, and now, going on nine years later, he a coming 30 yr-old, I still have him and adore him. He has taught me so much over the years, just needing to care for him, I have learned so much about horsekeeping, about myself too, thanks to him.

But it has been anything but easy, as one who boards, dragging a lame horse around for nearly a decade.

Sadly, (hopefully I'm just being pessimistic and am wrong) I may be facing a similar situation again with my younger horse (11) as well. Its possible he might have an issue that renders him unrideable. That would be 2 pasture ornaments. Thats pushing it, and I may have some hard decisions to make. Unless I could find a job for him that didn't require riding, it wouldn't be fair to send this horse on down the line, hoping people do right by him, mainly because his personality lends itself to people doing not-right by him, and he's a beautiful mover and seemingly sound, and it would be hard to imagine that someone woudn't try to ride him at some point, and his whole miserable life would start all over again. So, for him, and me, the right decision would likely be the hard one, unless something miraculous presented itself.

Retirement facilities are always an option too. If you can find a good job for him as a pasture ornament, babysitter, etc, thats always good, but those good homes are real hard to find when you need them.

Sorry to sound down in the mouth, I've just been walking down this road for a long time. No regrets though.

Whatever happens, horses with excellent, superb, ground manners tend to have more luck in life.

[joiedevie99]

I was in the same situation. I kept my retired horse (and still have her). She was my responsibility. For a few years I catch rode for trainers, hacked whatever I was offered, and occasionally took a lesson until I could afford another.

Had she been different, I would not have hesitated to look for a full-on 24/7 turnout retirement situation, or a free lease companion/therapy/babysitter of yearlings situation. I didn't think that was the right choice for my mare- but it could be for another horse. If I were ever in this situation again, I would look for that situation- but intend to keep the horse until (if ever) the right situation was found.

[cmdrcltr]

OP, I'm sorry you're in this position. I was fortunate to send my first pony to a great lesson barn where he taught many little ones to ride until he was 39. And I was even more fortunate that the BO found a great family to retire him with after that where he hung out and gave the odd pony ride to toddlers. I don't know what I would have done if I hadn't had that great situation because I can't afford to board two.

I think in the current economy I would lean toward euthanizing my horse if he was only pasture sound and I didn't own my own place. I wouldn't want my horse to end up in the wrong hands, abused and/or neglected. And I'd want to be investing my tightly budgeted horse funds in an animal I could ride, although I admire those of you who gave it up for your retirees. There is a vast difference, I think, between seeing a beloved animal through it's last few years and caring for a long-term pasture ornament. The OP could be supporting the horse for ten year or more.

Of course, my answer would be very different if I kept my horse(s) on my own property.

[appychik]

I'm sorta in the same boat, but have come to terms with everything.

Gus has been on and off lame for years... like the last 8 years. Took a few years to get a true diagnosis, because he'd be horribly lame one day and within a couple months, back to 100%. Gus is now "retired" to a life of some trail riding... and that's it. His stifles have deteriorated beyond repair for the most part. So we just putt-putt around now.

Enter Gringo. Gus's "replacement". He is anything but that. He's a pasture ornament and has been since he was 4 (got him after Gus took a turn for the worse)... he's now 7. He also has some issues (mainly mental, but he also has a fractured coffin bone that just never healed correctly) that make him unusable, for his intended purposes.

Thankfully I'm in the position to keep two pasture ornaments (even though I don't own my own place). I definitely have issues with them but I make things work. And in my "spare" time, I still take lessons at my old barn weekly on a mare that makes me work my butt off.

If I couldn't keep both boys, I would put them down. I just don't think I could find someone and someplace that would keep them in the same care and same standards that I do currently. Like other CoTHers have mentioned, it's better a minute too early then a moment too late.

I wouldn't want to be in your shoes... but something to think about (if you can afford it) is to give him a good year off. Let him be a horse and enjoy life. Re-evaluate the situation in a year and see how things are. It's amazing what time will do. I've almost got my old boy back now after nearly two years off.

Good luck.

[mvp]

To all who would sooner euthanize a horse than send him into a risky or "bad odds" situation: Do you think you can find a vet to comply?

However ethical (and I agree that it is), I think you may run into a very practical wall.

[lolalola]

I think you could find a vet who understands the situation, especially an older vet. If the OP can't afford a second horse, euthanizing the lame one is the most realistic solution. Finding a companion home will be next to impossible in this economy. The only other solution - could OP get a part-time job that would pay for the horse's board and needs? Of course, that could also mean no time left to ride another horse.

[dainty do]

Well, I have some good news and bad news.

Bad news first. I tried to rehome my sound, older, show horse for years. Couldn't find a new home for him.

Now the good news. I still have him and he is happy! I found a less expensive boarding/retirement home for him about one mile from my home. I love being able to visit him any time I want.

In your case, I would consider turning your guy out in a pasture for a year or so, and letting nature run its course. If you look hard enough, there may be a great place for him with less facilities, but at less cost. Just keep looking and good luck!

[Dressage.For.Life.]

Thanks for all the replies everybody.

I'm quite lucky and live in a small town-- I currently just pay $350 for full board at a wonderful barn. There's another nearby barn that costs a little less per month that I've kept him at in the pest but the stalls are smaller there and pastures are unfortunately very hilly (not going to work now with the lameness). I could possibly board him at an old friends place but found that difficult before and I'd rather pay the extra money for him to get the care he's getting now. As for renting a pasture-- I simply wouldn't have the time to go out two to three times a day and like boarding for the fact that there's always people around in case something were to happen. I'm friends with a woman who owns a rescue about an hour away and I'd probably be able to board him there for fairly cheap but right now she has more horses than she has room for basically.

The lameness isn't causing him any severe pain (he's willing to work even) so because he's happy and only 10, I wouldn't put him down--unless he got worse of course but I see no reason to do so now.

I totally would help pay for farrier bills and vet fees if I found the right person who's looking for a buddy for their horse-- it's just the extra $300-400 board I couldn't do. The BO where my horse is at now doesn't always like having boarders work for him but I can talk to him about something like that to get board down a little...

I'll either keep him where he is and put riding on hold (I'd rather save up to purchase a second horse versus spend money just to be able to ride the beginner lesson horses around here) or see if I can find the right person who wants a buddy for their horse so I at least wouldn't have to pay for board for two horses now.

[Cherry]

In the end only you know how much you can afford and how much you can take.

I'm one of those people who kept her horse once she became lame and could no longer be ridden.

I wanted a horse ever since I was four years old (now 57) and never wanted to let her go (she was 23)--I didn't care if she could be ridden or not! :cry: She carried me for ten years and I carried her for five years (after she came up permanently lame)--I figured it was the least I could do. Yes, I missed and still miss riding but I had already decided I was going to keep her until she was no longer comfortable and was no longer able to get around.

I can understand how you might want to euthanize your horse, and that is your decision. If you can find a vet to do it I think it is an honorable thing to do in most cases..... Anyone who thinks that there is someone out there who is willing to take on a lame horse I have a bridge I want to sell you! ;) :yes: There may be some people but they are few and far between.

Ethics aside I think we are at a point in time in this country where we all have to make tough decisions about what to do with all these horses. It occurs to me that the lame horses should get top priority when it comes to being put down. I don't understand why a vet would not be willing to euthanize a permanently lame horse rather than see the owner send it off to an auction or sent to a hoarder to be neglected.... Good homes are hard to find for sound horses, let alone the lame ones.

I do know that the best way to find a good home is through word of mouth! Talk to your farrier, your vet, folks at the tack shop, at the feed mill, etc. Maybe there is someone out there who would be willing to take in your horse but in the off chance it doesn't happen I wouldn't fault you for having your horse euthanized. I realize not everyone is willing to put his/her riding on hold for a decade or so. It's just that my horse's lifestyle was more important than my own.

Peace, for whatever you decide to do....

[Hampton Bay]

I personally cannot imagine passing on my lame and un-rideable horse to someone else to care for. If you don't want to pay for him, then how can you expect anyone else to want to pay for him? How will you guarantee that he always has food and water, if you are not willing to pay for it? What if you lease him out, and he suddenly has to come back to you because the leasee no longer wants him?

It's just really unfair to say that he's not lame enough to put down, but he's too lame for you to use, so someone else can pay for his bills so you can replace him.

Personally, I don't think there is a thing wrong with putting down the permanently lame horse. But passing him off to someone else is really unfair to both him and the person you are asking to pay his bills.

[FineAlready]

If the question is what would I do, I would keep him, even if it meant no new horse. I've thought this through already with my 4 year old horse. We are (hopefully) on the road to recovery now, but if things were to turn, he and I are in it together. He's my buddy and I can't imagine getting rid of him because I couldn't ride him.

[Ajierene]

I was talking to a woman one day and she relayed the story of her Aunt-in-law. The woman had run a lesson facility for many years. She was getting older and decided to close the doors to her facility. All her horses had been in the program and faithfully served her for at least 4 years. They ranged in age from early to late teens.

She felt that the only way to ensure a horse you keep does not end up in a bad situation was to never sell it. She was getting older and could not guarantee her own ability to care for the horses, so she put every one of them down.

It follows that especially when you have a horse that is not sound, you should keep it until it dies. Horses have no sense of time. That 4 year old with the messed up suspensory is not thinking 'gee, I'm only four...I cannot walk much, but I want to live for the next 20 years.' Its thought process is more along the lines of 'ouch, I hurt.'

[NancyM]

Excellent responses here already. It is unlikely that you will find someone who will take him, and care for him adequately, if he is not AT ALL ridable. If he could do light pleasure riding occasionally, or theraputic riding for physically impared riders or children (even if he needs some bute to do that), that would improve his chances of your finding a new owner/caretaker for him. If the right person for him comes along for him, DO NOT "give" him away, lease him. So that you retain ownership. If things don't go well for him, if he deteriorates physically or doesn't work out for the new owner, you can take him back and put him down.

It does sound as if you are needing a fairly high level competition horse, and this horse is not it. But if he is partially functional at a lower level, he could still be valulable to someone else, if he has a great disposition, and substantial training under his belt, IF he can be made comfortable enough for light, non-competitive work.

Good luck.

[pj]

There are very few homes that want a pasture pet.

You might get lucky and find one, but do check references very carefully as we've all heard of reasonable-sounding people taking in these horses only to sell them on at auction right away.

If you, who know and love this horse, don't want to pay for his care for years to come, why do you think anyone else does?

.

THIS.

[Dalemma]

To all who would sooner euthanize a horse than send him into a risky or "bad odds" situation: Do you think you can find a vet to comply?

However ethical (and I agree that it is), I think you may run into a very practical wall.

Well where we live I would have no trouble having the vets in our clinic put a horse down under those circumstances.....but in a community 100 miles south of us I have heard they have a no kill policy...........but people simply haul their horses up if they want them euathinized.

I am one of those that would euathanize before I would give away.

Dalemma

[mvp]

I'd sooner euthanize my own then try to set up a situation where someone else reliably would feed a "used up" horse to the end of his days. I think that's asking for too much.

But if we all hate reading Craigslist ads that say "Take him by X date or he goes to auction!" then it seems to me that we are treating vets similarly.

All in all, it's better to euthanize a horse while his quality of life and care is good. But I can see why a vet would not want to make it easy to help riders dispose of their horses.

As someone who can afford to own just one horse at a time, I can see both sides. I'm not sure I could continue to think of myself as a good horsewoman if I put one in the ground in pursuit of another.

[Hannahsmom]

D.F.L., first of all, I am so sorry for you. Horses can be so heartbreaking. But everyone here has given you very good advice. You could luck into a great pasture buddy situation. But be ready to be asked to take the horse back if the new home decides they don't need a pasture buddy anymore. Or want something rideable as well as pasture buddy. There are lovely horses that are sound for light work that aren't finding these type of home. Right now you are very emotionally attached. I have been in your situation and know how hard it is. But as someone said, if you, who have had the benefit of some good rides and good times with your horse are ready to move on, think how much more quickly the next person will be. Not saying you should keep him forever, but just warning that there really are few fairy tale homes out there. Anna Sewell got it correct when she wrote Black Beauty as harsh as it seems.

[Ozone]

I think you could find a vet who understands the situation, especially an older vet. If the OP can't afford a second horse, euthanizing the lame one is the most realistic solution. .

A vet or an older vet per say cannot euth. a virtually healthy horse. If the inqury/lamness is that bad - well of course you as the owner would do right by the horse but ethically no vet can put or SHOULD (is more like it) put a horse down because he is not rideable to your standards or because you want another horse ;)

I guess I am on the other side of the fence as I just gave away my companion horse. Yes there are people out there that would no mind a companion horse ieven in this economy but it is a lengthy ordeal finding the right situation for your horse. Took me months to find the perfect for him and for me home.

[FlashGordon]

As someone who can afford to own just one horse at a time, I can see both sides. I'm not sure I could continue to think of myself as a good horsewoman if I put one in the ground in pursuit of another.

:yes:

I too am a one horse owner, and when I took on an older TB in 2008, I knew he may never come riding sound. Some days he is soundish enough for light riding. Some days he likes to present with bizarre health issues and give me (and my wallet) a heart attack.

Unfortunately I've only been able to ride him a dozen or so times, but I knew going in this may be the case. Would I love a second horse? Yep. Can I do it financially NOW? No. And I can't in good conscience put old man down, nor pass him off to just anyone. This is the choice I made when I took him on and so I'll see it through, providing I have the ability and means to do so. As long as he is happy, eating, moving around, and enjoying his life, he'll go on with us.

[EqTrainer]

To all who would sooner euthanize a horse than send him into a risky or "bad odds" situation: Do you think you can find a vet to comply?

However ethical (and I agree that it is), I think you may run into a very practical wall.

If I asked my vet to euthanize a pasture ornament she would do it, I have no doubt. She lives in reality.

[Horsegal984]

I think there are many vets who would euth a pasture ornament. Esp in this economy, where even the best owner can fall on hard times and the horse could begin to suffer, many vets understand the problem and there does need to be a disposal option. As bad as it sounds to call it that, a vet coming out to euth an 'unwanted/unusable/unsound of mind or body' horse is really no different than those unwanted/unusable cats and dogs dumped at a shelter to be euthed by someone else.

Until the horse population doesn't VASTLY outnumber the available good homes in this country(USA) there will continue to be euths of "healthy" horses, for whatever reason their owner gives. Every vet has a right to decline to euth a horse/cat/dog/etc but don't think for a minute those people won't just go to another vet who will, or who they can lie to about the horse's issues. Like the poster above who lives next to a no kill county, they will just trailer across the lines; same as what's happening with slaughter now, just trailering across to Canada or mexico. Longer drive, same end.

Katherine
Vet Tech

[Dressage.For.Life.]

Thanks Ozone. I'd only lease him out if I found the right person-- if it took months or even a year, so be it. I wouldn't put him in a bad situation. And as I said, the person leasing him and I would have to really get along for this to work. If for some reason I had to take him back, I'd do so and would always be sure to have money put away in case I needed to. If I'd be able to keep him at a friends (paying "board" of course) or some place close, even better.

I'm not losing hope yet as nor the senior vet or a radiologist has looked at the radiographs. If whatever showed up on the radiographs is there, the vet who was out to the barn yesterday said I could maybe just occasionally get on and walk him for a few minutes--so unfortunately he wouldn't even be suitable for someone looking for a light pleasure horse.

And again I would really hate to even lease him out, and no matter what the vets say, I'm going to do everything I can to try to keep him in my full care-- even if it means putting getting another horse on hold for right now.

[SMF11]

CoTH is a tough crowd (as am I on the issue of finding "retirement homes"). I understand you were just thinking aloud and thinking through your situation. You sound like a wonderful and very caring owner.

With any luck he won't be permanently unsound; I second the "throw him out in a pasture" [with good care, of course!] and see where he is in a year.

You will figure out what to do.

[Dressage.For.Life.]

Thanks SMF11.

The vet mentioned maybe seeing what he looked like after a year of "doing nothing with him" and it's something I'm keeping in mind. Of course, it'd be helpful if I could lease him to someone looking for a pasture pet in the meantime(!) but I'm not counting on it.

Even without knowing what the senior vet thinks of the radiographs, it's more unlikely now (with the suspensory problems healed and him still lame) that he'll be able return to working up the levels of dressage (a goal was showing 3rd level), so I also need to keep in mind that at some point, I'd like to get another horse. After recovering from these many and expensive vet bills it's possible I could have two horses (of course I'd check the money first and be realistic on whether or not I could really do it).

[Hampton Bay]

This is a bit unrelated, but I have to wonder how much pain these guys who cannot be ridden even lightly are in. If he is truly so bad off that you cannot go for a walking trail ride, then how is he going to be comfortable to be pasture sound?

That is truly me being curious. I don't understand how they can be lame enough that a walking ride is not an option, but he pain-free in a pasture. I can understand cases where there is a high risk of re-injury with work, but that the horse is not currently in pain. But the ones who are too lame to be ridden, it doesn't make a lot of sense.

Any thoughts on that kind of issue? I am truly curious.

[onthebit]

Thanks Ozone. I'd only lease him out if I found the right person-- if it took months or even a year, so be it. I wouldn't put him in a bad situation. And as I said, the person leasing him and I would have to really get along for this to work. If for some reason I had to take him back, I'd do so and would always be sure to have money put away in case I needed to. If I'd be able to keep him at a friends (paying "board" of course) or some place close, even better.


I think this a very realistic approach on your part. You may find someone willing to take him as a companion and it may very well be the perfect scenario. But you have got to know on the front end that the odds are very high that it won't last, the person's situation or needs will change, and when you least need it or are expecting it you will get the phone call to take the horse back. Many of my clients tried this route first and they all had the horse fall back in their laps. Some prety quickly, some after a year or two. I think as long as you know and are prepared that the horse will fully be your financial responsibility again then maybe you can find someone else to tote the note for awhile.

Even better for you, I hope the horse can come back to full work. Sometimes we get the doomsday prognosis but the horse rebounds, it does happen. I hope it happens for you and your horse. :)

[betsyk]

Along the lines of thinking about giving him a year off -- can you start networking with your vet, farrier, feed store guys, etc. to see if you can find someone who wants a boarder in their back yard, for less than you're paying for full board? I've gotten lucky twice, when I had an older mare with mild special needs (heaves), and found nice normal back yard people who had room for another horse and wanted some help with their bills. No fancy care, but she was treated like one of their family and I felt like I was paying fairly for the situation. That might allow you to catch up on your vet bills and figure out what's next.

[onthebit]

This is a bit unrelated, but I have to wonder how much pain these guys who cannot be ridden even lightly are in. If he is truly so bad off that you cannot go for a walking trail ride, then how is he going to be comfortable to be pasture sound?

That is truly me being curious. I don't understand how they can be lame enough that a walking ride is not an option, but he pain-free in a pasture. I can understand cases where there is a high risk of re-injury with work, but that the horse is not currently in pain. But the ones who are too lame to be ridden, it doesn't make a lot of sense.

Any thoughts on that kind of issue? I am truly curious.

Here is a video of a couple of "pasture sound" horses retired at my farm. You can see them both trotting together at 30 seconds. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cLKi2g_mDg

Although they look very sound here neither of them can hold up to any consistent undersaddle work at all. They probably could do walking trail rides but their owners are realistic enough to know that even for a horse that can do walking trail rides there just aren't that many homes.

These horses are absolutely pasture sound, but they are not riding sound. Very heartbreaking since you can see how lovely they both are. One of the horses in the video is 14 and the other one is only 7. Their owners deserve medals.

[2boys]

I am living one of your options. I have a 12 year old who has been retired for two years. I also have a 7 year old whom I adopted after I retired my other boy. I looked into leasing my retired horse out for a while, and realized that it was a bit delusional of me to think that someone would want to take on the responsibility of my guy who is not terribly *useful*.
It is pretty tough sometimes, and I sometimes am a bit resentful that I can't afford to pay for more training for my younger horse, or that I can't afford to board out all the time. I am fortunate though, that I can have them in my backyard.
I know that there are several vets who would and have offered to put him down due to his physical issues. Although he is not sound enough to be worked consistently, he is quite comfortable enough on most days. And he still has a boat load of spirit. I think that to put him down now would be to remove a wonderful energy from this world. He is not anywhere near there yet!!:D

[PRS]

I have thought about what I would do if this situation presented itself to me. I could not, in good concience, give away an unusable horse. Horses are expensive to keep. Who would want a horse they could only look at? What happens when they decide that they don't want to be bothered with him anymore? He could, and probably will, end up at an auction and then what? I had decided that should I be in a position similar to yours, faced with a horse that will never be sound again, and quite possibly in pain that I would have him humanely euthanized. There are lots worse things that could happen to him. Yeah, sometimes being a responsible person really sucks but best YOU take responsibility for him now instead of hoping someone in the future will be generous enough to take care of a horse they can't use for the next 15 to 20 years.

I am fortunate enough to be able to keep my horses at home. My 2 seniors, while not particularly useful, will have a home as long as they remain healthy and painfree. Should it ever come to pass that I can no longer afford to keep them and if certain people of my aquaintance cannot or will not take them they will be euthed, that is also written down in instructions of how to dispose of my animals should I die.

[Dressage.For.Life.]

This is a bit unrelated, but I have to wonder how much pain these guys who cannot be ridden even lightly are in. If he is truly so bad off that you cannot go for a walking trail ride, then how is he going to be comfortable to be pasture sound?

That is truly me being curious. I don't understand how they can be lame enough that a walking ride is not an option, but he pain-free in a pasture. I can understand cases where there is a high risk of re-injury with work, but that the horse is not currently in pain. But the ones who are too lame to be ridden, it doesn't make a lot of sense.

Any thoughts on that kind of issue? I am truly curious.

My horse is still even willing to work (first vet had me still riding him after first round of joint injections, after suspensory problems healed and I was cleared to start riding him again, etc.) so he can't be in too much discomfort. He's able to eat, comfortably lie down to rest, and he's in good health otherwise. He's pain free enough to be bouncing around from the stall rest..He's his usual self (aside from being a little grouchy for having to be on stall rest), mischievous and all, and seeing him you can tell that he's happy.

The vet that was out didn't say exactly why she thought I'd only occasionally be able to walk him under saddle but it's possible she was afraid that he'd quickly deteriorate under the stress of working, rendering him only pasture sound. She could have said it for many reasons though.

If he wasn't comfortable and was in pain, I wouldn't keep him alive for myself.

[buck22]

This is a bit unrelated, but I have to wonder how much pain these guys who cannot be ridden even lightly are in. If he is truly so bad off that you cannot go for a walking trail ride, then how is he going to be comfortable to be pasture sound?

my aged gelding has a club foot now and one of his pastern bones is wearing away at an odd angle, it could go at any moment. yet, he can canter and play in his paddock all day, I even have some recent photos of him at a gallop. :D

I *could* go for walks on him but why make him deal with the extra weight of a rider and tempt fate? when I can hand walk or pony him instead.

any ridden work more than a few moments at anything faster than a walk and his arthritis aches, but left alone to play and romp, you'd never know he was unsound.

people ask me all the time why I'm not riding that pretty running in my paddock :lol:

[mvp]

This is where most horses live for the majority of their lives-- it's between spring-chicken sound, pasture-sound, and "OMG, Uncle! Living hurts too much."

This is always by the horse's standards, not ours. The gray zone is also an ethical one. If we put the horse first, it becomes really simple. We meet his needs as best we can until we can't and we euthanize him.

The question about "sound for a walking trail-ride" to me does not count as sound. Why not? Because most people don't want to pay "full price" board for that. Because the horse's utility to that same majority is so limited that it's likely he will sooner or later be outgrown or unwanted. And finally, it's because a horse that sore may have a hard time on that trail ride. The key difference between riding sound and pasture sound is that the loose animal more or less gets to determine how he uses his body.

The bad news is that owners who really want to ride their horses have little use for the retired ones. Our standards for soundness are too high. The same news is good: We will quit with a horse before we have crippled him to the point that he thinks twice about trotting or cantering in a pasture.

[summerhorse]

You can try to find a home but it would be hard and you risk him ending up in a very bad place unless you are paying board on him and visit regularly (because even boarded horses disappear now and again). It's a long shot though as has been pointed out. I'd be prepared to keep him or put him down.

Personally my horses mean more to me than riding (not that there isn't usually plenty of opportunity to ride other horses, you might even get PAID!). I keep them when they can't be ridden and make them comfortable until the time comes. So yes that means there are gaps in my riding.

Like the poster above I wouldn't dream of selling or giving away a crippled horse unless it was a (good) breeding animal and would be worth something to the owner. Barring the dream home (which is ME come to think of it...) I'd rather put the horse down and know it's fate.

[Mozart]

I am probably not going to get the COTH Horse Lover of the Year Award for this, but here is my opinion....

Some of us just love horses. Some of us love horses and sport. Equestrian sports are unique in that we take on a living being as our partner and we have an ethical obligation to that partner but at the end of the day, I think it is okay to have sporting aspirations as well.

So I am not going to tell you that you have an ethical obligation to keep a young unsound horse to the end of his days. Re-homing is not impossible but is difficult and is fraught with potential problems.

If you can find someone who will take him as a pasture pet...you will be lucky indeed. Try the networking route, you never know. Someone may truly need a companion animal. It would help if he is basically a nice guy who gets along with horse and human, who is an easy keeper and does not need expensive shoeing or meds (or you are prepared to pay for that part of it).

Should you be so fortunate as to find that great home you will need to be vigilant that his living conditions are acceptable and that they stay that way. They need to agree that you can check on him from time to time.

But to be frank...when you say the horse may not be okay in a hilly pasture and not even sound for a walking trail ride....is this horse even pasture sound? That can't be a comfortable existence. If that is the case euthanasia is, imo, a fair option. There are worse things than death.

If however, his sport horse days are done but he could go for an occasional trail ride, perhaps after having had a little bute for breakfast, you are more likely to find a situation for him. You will still need to be vigilant though.

Obviously, you need to hear the prognosis before you make any decisions. Also, don't overlook the possibility of a year out with "Dr. Green". Pasture board would be more affordable and you could possibly afford to part board a horse to ride at the same time.

Tough choices and I wish you the best of luck. Hopefully the prognosis is not too bad.....or it is really bad and your choice will be easier. I don't think there is anything wrong with wanting to ride and pursue your passion.

[AnotherRound]

Unless I had a close-by retirement farm where I could monitor him, and the money to keep him there, I would euthanize him.

As the poster said, if you aren't willing to keep him, why do you think a stranger is?

[Wayside]

Although I agree that there just aren't very many homes out there for pasture puffs, and rehoming them can be very risky, it desn't hurt to get the word out among people that you know and trust that you're looking for a less expensive situation for a retiree. Personally, I find that many of us with horses at home find we need two more than we ever intend to work with, just so that no one ever has to be alone in the pasture.

A couple of years ago I had an older gelding pass away unexpectedly from colic, and I had to borrow a donkey from a neighbor and scramble to find something to keep my not-quite-yearling filly company. At that point, rideability was not even remotely a concern. All we wanted was something low-maintenance, safe to handle on the ground, and that played nicely with others. So I ended up bringing home a retired broodmare.

Now those situations are few and far between, and there are lots of unrideable horses out there, so it makes sense to be prepared to continue to care for or euthanize your pasture sound horse. But if you don't say anything at all you might miss a rare opportunity. So it's worth mentioning to a few good friends, or your vet/farrier/trainer may know someone.

[Dressage.For.Life.]

When the vet was out again Tuesday, she had me ride as she was able to see the lameness better when my horse was under saddle..Setting being embarrassed about my riding aside (I will say that I'm not usually that bad; it was my third time on a horse since October :lol:), I've included a link to some videos (http://s989.photobucket.com/albums/af20/AMW2/?action=view&current=VinnieFeb8and9.flv) from the 8th and 9th to show that my horse is not three-legged lame, non-weight bearing, etc. The video included clips from his second and third time under saddle since the beginning of October.

[Watermark Farm]

To all who would sooner euthanize a horse than send him into a risky or "bad odds" situation: Do you think you can find a vet to comply?

However ethical (and I agree that it is), I think you may run into a very practical wall.


Absolutely. Especially in this economy.

I'm likely putting down an abandoned mare this week simply because she has no home, and good companion homes are few and far between. Very sad, but the vet knows the reality of the situation.

Sorry about your horse. I've been there, too. I now work with a horse welfare organization and see so much horror --- horses you'd never think wind up in bad situations do (above mare is one of four family horses that were abandoned by their former Pony Club DC owner!). Horses live for the moment; it's OK to euthanize if you can't swing it.

[2boys]

When the vet was out again Tuesday, she had me ride as she was able to see the lameness better when my horse was under saddle..Setting being embarrassed about my riding aside (I will say that I'm not usually that bad; it was my third time on a horse since October :lol:), I've included a link to some videos (http://s989.photobucket.com/albums/af20/AMW2/?action=view&current=VinnieFeb8and9.flv) from the 8th and 9th to show that my horse is not three-legged lame, non-weight bearing, etc. The video included clips from his second and third time under saddle since the beginning of October.

Sorry if I am being redundant with this question, if it has been asked already... Have you had someone really look into his back/hips? I wonder if he is holding or is sore there.

[brightskyfarm]

http://whinny.org/horseretirement.htm

i did a 2second search and came up with this...
board can be reasonable at these places, nearly what you'd
output keeping yourself, or adding to a free lease...
im sure theres more to be found near you in Indiana.

and you could get regular updates, even see him .....!
heres one ad;
Believing every Virginia farm looks inviting in the summer our website shows the farm in winter so that you may note what horses experience here, and see how they fare in cold weather. Throwleigh Farm is exclusively a horse operation with 400 acres dedicated to retirees, polo ponies, and lay-ups. The farm is a private facility with no public events disturbing the tranquil setting. The horses are tended by family members who live on the property, all lifetime horsemen. Your deserving horse will receive kind handling, fine pasture and hay, fresh water, and shade. The basic fee is $125.00 per month including worming and trimming.

variety of prices ranging from $150/200/250/ & up... seems theres plenty of choice, of price/location/services.

[WorthTheWait95]

To all who would sooner euthanize a horse than send him into a risky or "bad odds" situation: Do you think you can find a vet to comply?

However ethical (and I agree that it is), I think you may run into a very practical wall.

My vet will absolutely refuse to euth a horse that is pasture sound or perfectly healthy because the owner needs them to go and doesn't want to sell/rehome, etc. Neither will the other large clinic in my area. I know of several people that decided they wanted to for their own reasons which I don't pretend to understand and they could not find a single vet in our area who would do it. It was a big ethical issue for them.

I'm starting vet school in the fall and at my interview they asked me this exact question. It was by far the hardest question they asked. I have to say that if I were faced with that situation I'm not sure I could reconcile myself to it either, ethically speaking. It just seems wrong to end an otherwise healthy animals life based on what-ifs and maybes. Sure, horses sometimes end up in bad situations but that is definitely not the rule and it's up to us as owners to screen homes and do the best we can by them.

[NancyM]

This problem of a vet refusing to put down a chronically lame horse is unknown to me. There are other ways of putting a horse down rather than calling the vet. An experienced old time horseman with a gun can be equally effective, and equally humane. This is the norm in this area, actually.

[Mozart]

My vet will absolutely refuse to euth a horse that is pasture sound or perfectly healthy because the owner needs them to go and doesn't want to sell/rehome, etc. Neither will the other large clinic in my area..


This bugs me. Are these vets going to help the owners FIND good pasture ornament homes? And then help keep tabs on them and rehome again if said home doesnt' work out?

I am pretty sure that my vet would euthanize a pasture ornament if I asked ( I currently have two and they are going to live on my tab 'til the end of their days but I have property and am in a different situation that the OP), but next time I see him I am going to ask what his policy is; I am now curious.

[Dalemma]

Well I have a moderately affected PSSM horse that is not rideable and is now a pasture pet/companion who also has issues with his heart when out on too much pasture......and I struggle every day as to whether I should put him down......I know he is reasonably comfortable most days and not so good other days..........my vet has no trouble putting him down when every I decide the time is right..........it makes it hard as he is only 7.

Dalemma

[Dressage.For.Life.]

Thanks 2boys-- A vet I did an x-ray (using the hock radiographs from last fall)/ phone consult with was curious about hip problems being most likely because of the way he was moving and everything (as those radiographs of hock were clean), and then stifle problems being next, but my horse appeared to block sound when blocking the two nerves to get from the hock down (we started at the hoof and worked our way up-- we just didn't block the individual hock joints). I had the chiropractor out in September and he was uneven in the hip area; after the adjustment the hip hiking subsided a little...I could try having her out again?

If what was seen on the radiographs is there and nothing can be done, I'll maybe see what he looks like in six months or a year. If whatever it is (or if it really isn't there at all) looks like it could be "fixed" we may go on and take him to KY for an MRI (of the hock and suspensory) and/or bone scan.

Should I just ask the vets to more thoroughly palpate his back? Have the chiropractor out to check his back? Or...?

Thanks brightskyfarm. I've heard so many horror stories about retirement farms, if I were to keep him at one, it'd almost have to either be really close to me or come highly recommended from people who have or have had horses there.

[mvp]

Just a side rant. No offense to the OP.

But to everyone: "Re-homing?" Really? We like the Norman Rockwell connotations built into the word, but it strikes me that we can't afford to speak in euphemisms any more.

When we talk about very expensive, specialized pets or even livestock as having "homes" I think we deny what we really mean. Their home is contingent upon their ability to do a job.

The home talk makes it hard for owners and vets to consider euthanasia as an ethically viable option. After all, don't you look like an A-hole of the worst sort if you didn't merely "rehome" something that, well, deserves a home at all?

But it really bugs me that the "re-homing option" for unwanted horses implies someone else doing something warmer, fuzzier and more ethical than we would. That's having your cake and eating it to: Maintaining a moral standard that sounds good, but which you have no plans to meet yourself. Why hang onto that?

Buck up, my horse friends! If you enjoy him while he's working for you, then you are obligated to support him when he is not. Can't or won't do that? No problem-- to each his own. But you must face you own criteria squarely. Encourage others to do the same so that it becomes *culturally acceptable* to do something other than send horses away with the hazy hope that someone else will stand by them.

Again, sorry for the rant about the one term. It just bugged me and I had to figure out why.

[Ozone]

My Pleasure D.F.L. Again, It took me months to find my companion horse a home, but I did. You are like me in that sence of - you will hold out until the perfect situation arises.

What I truly do not understand as I read a couple posts is why do some of us think because the horse cannot ride that whomever they are given to is not going to care for them?

Horses are not all about riding. I have given away about 6 horses. 2 sound, 2 OTTB's that needed layup, and 2 companions. To this day, they are all still where they were placed and the people love them.... and at this point (4 rideables are older now) none of them ride, the owners just love to have them. They have them at home, they require minimal care outside of feed, water, general vet and trimmings.

I am not suggesting giving a horse to someone who has to board the companion at $800/month somewhere but a farm type situation is the perfect set-up. My recent give away is finally being a horse. Meaning, he is not getting his whiskers clipped every couple days, he is not wearing the latest make of Rambo blankets, he is not required to be the show horse he once was, he is getting shelter, feed, routine care and love - that IS enough.

JMO

[TrotTrotPumpkn]

Just a side rant. No offense to the OP.

But to everyone: "Re-homing?" Really? We like the Norman Rockwell connotations built into the word, but it strikes me that we can't afford to speak in euphemisms any more.

When we talk about very expensive, specialized pets or even livestock as having "homes" I think we deny what we really mean. Their home is contingent upon their ability to do a job.

The home talk makes it hard for owners and vets to consider euthanasia as an ethically viable option. After all, don't you look like an A-hole of the worst sort if you didn't merely "rehome" something that, well, deserves a home at all?

But it really bugs me that the "re-homing option" for unwanted horses implies someone else doing something warmer, fuzzier and more ethical than we would. That's having your cake and eating it to: Maintaining a moral standard that sounds good, but which you have no plans to meet yourself. Why hang onto that?

Buck up, my horse friends! If you enjoy him while he's working for you, then you are obligated to support him when he is not. Can't or won't do that? No problem-- to each his own. But you must face you own criteria squarely. Encourage others to do the same so that it becomes *culturally acceptable* to do something other than send horses away with the hazy hope that someone else will stand by them.

Again, sorry for the rant about the one term. It just bugged me and I had to figure out why.

But technically the OP is talking about actually finding another home. I mean I understand what you are saying, of course, because rehome is much more "rosy."

I think we all agree that it is best to do what is in the horse's best interest, but every day I'm seeing more in the gray area too. Like the examples given above of "what IS pasture sound?" Or I see people that would love to retire their unsound or old horses until they naturally pass, but have suffered job loss, etc. and it just isn't feasible, even with sacrifice--so if vets won't euthanize (and I'm not saying they must) and rescues are full, then what is the BETTER option?

And as far as the forever home sentiment goes, it makes sense if you competed a horse for 10 years, but what about my friend who acquired a horse just to save it from the crazy owner? Paid money to have it gelded, it's wounds looked at, teeth and feet done, and to see if she could give it a chance. If it turns out that he is never going to be 100% sound, is she never allowed to get a riding horse because she should hang on to this one forever? Not everyone has their own farm or can afford multiple board...

Is everyone who wants to compete a bad person because competition is why they bought a horse in the first place, but now the horse no longer can. Does it matter if they have owned the horse 10 years or 10 days and where do you draw the line?

I'm rambling, and heartsore, so I'll just stop, but I wanted to say to the OP, I really applaud you for exploring options and for all of the diagnostic work you have done so far and this sounds like a tough situation--sorry.

[TrotTrotPumpkn]

My Pleasure D.F.L. Again, It took me months to find my companion horse a home, but I did. You are like me in that sence of - you will hold out until the perfect situation arises.

What I truly do not understand as I read a couple posts is why do some of us think because the horse cannot ride that whomever they are given to is not going to care for them?

Horses are not all about riding. I have given away about 6 horses. 2 sound, 2 OTTB's that needed layup, and 2 companions. To this day, they are all still where they were placed and the people love them.... and at this point (4 rideables are older now) none of them ride, the owners just love to have them. They have them at home, they require minimal care outside of feed, water, general vet and trimmings.

I am not suggesting giving a horse to someone who has to board the companion at $800/month somewhere but a farm type situation is the perfect set-up. My recent give away is finally being a horse. Meaning, he is not getting his whiskers clipped every couple days, he is not wearing the latest make of Rambo blankets, he is not required to be the show horse he once was, he is getting shelter, feed, routine care and love - that IS enough.

JMO

How are you finding these long term homes? Just curious...

I don't know that it would be so simple with a hard-keeper, unfortunately.

[brightskyfarm]

Thanks brightskyfarm. I've heard so many horror stories about retirement farms, if I were to keep him at one, it'd almost have to either be really close to me or come highly recommended from people who have or have had horses there.[/QUOTE]

Actually, it isnt hard to get references on any stable/farm/instructor/ etc... ask your local authorities if they've had any complaints, ask the local farrier, vet, even feed store.. you might be surprised how much people within the trade communicate.
When I took in some retirement horses, in the owners contract was included a vet visit every x/months for updates and verification of the horses condition..

Its not all that costly.....and does offer you all you require, ... the horses care as you desire, ability to visit, even ride if its possible ... oversee of all needs...and inexpensive.

I had great success taking in retiree's....... all happy and healthy.... and hope to return to the farm when *I* retire.

[FineAlready]

And as far as the forever home sentiment goes, it makes sense if you competed a horse for 10 years, but what about my friend who acquired a horse just to save it from the crazy owner? Paid money to have it gelded, it's wounds looked at, teeth and feet done, and to see if she could give it a chance. If it turns out that he is never going to be 100% sound, is she never allowed to get a riding horse because she should hang on to this one forever? Not everyone has their own farm or can afford multiple board...

Is everyone who wants to compete a bad person because competition is why they bought a horse in the first place, but now the horse no longer can. Does it matter if they have owned the horse 10 years or 10 days and where do you draw the line?

I hear you on this, and there is no easy answer. Everyone has to come up with a personal philosophy that they can live with. My personal philosophy is that if the music stops when the horse is in my possession, that horse is mine for life. Doesn't matter if I bought him 10 days ago or 10 years ago. I also have a philosophy of not selling horses anymore, so that kind of takes care of the issue altogether.

My view is that horses don't owe us anything. They are not our employees. It is a testament to their innate good nature that they allow us to ride them at all. I choose to honor that by never letting one of mine slip through the cracks. I view it as the least I can do for the species as a whole. I can't help them all, but I can help the one I have.

Anyway, to give perspective - I love to horse show, and my current horse was purchased specifically for me to show. Not sure if it will ever happen due to his injury. I've chosen to stick with the commitment I made to him - even if I can never show him, and even if he doesn't stay sound. That could theoretically result in no riding for me at some point (I certainly can't afford another one in the near future). I made my peace with such an eventuality before I even started horse shopping.

Not saying my view is the right view. It is just what works for me and allows me to sleep at night.

[Penthilisea]

Hoo boy is this subject close to my heart! I have a 30-something pasture sound QH and a 17 year old TB who might hold up to coming back into work.

And I live in NJ- where everything costs more. I don't begrudge farm owners what they charge because I know what their taxes are like. They aren't gouging at all- I think many operate on a loss year to year.

I just keep telling myself I am in it for the horses, being around them, NOT for the riding. I can be a horse person even when I cannot ride. Also in the process of building my own pastures and shed at home to bring the boyos home.

Part of what you get at a retirement farm, or any boarding situation like that, is the peace of mind that the BO will keep his or her eyes open and give me a call if something is amiss. (such as my TB chocking the day before the blizzard- I can't WAIT to see that bill!)

Because I have 50 % of the at home set up installed I'm trying really hard to tread water and not lose my shirt in boarding and fees till I can bring them home and put that money back into my own property. And It's been realllly tight. And if I can't do it... I'll put the older horse down. He's had a long life, and a few amazing years at the end here, so I will know it's for the best.

Thats whats on my mind

[EqTrainer]

This bugs me. Are these vets going to help the owners FIND good pasture ornament homes? And then help keep tabs on them and rehome again if said home doesnt' work out?

I am pretty sure that my vet would euthanize a pasture ornament if I asked ( I currently have two and they are going to live on my tab 'til the end of their days but I have property and am in a different situation that the OP), but next time I see him I am going to ask what his policy is; I am now curious.

This bothers me, too.

[AKB]

Where we live, vets will put down a chronically unsound horse without question. They don't like to put down healthy horses or dogs. The clinic where my daughter works has paperwork ready so that owners can chose to sign over ownership of a pet to the clinic instead of euthanizing. The clinic only offers this if they feel the pet can be re-homed. Someone recently brought in a purebred, healthy, puppy for euthanasia. My daughter encouraged the man to instead sign it over to the clinic. Within a few hours, the puppy had a good home.

Our local vet school has purchased and euthanized healthy horses for student dissections. This bothers me because they could instead acquire and euthanize horses with incurable problems.