This is an archived Horseadvice.com Discussion. The parent article and menus are available on the navigation menu below:
HorseAdvice.com » Horse Care » Routine Horse Care » Particular Situations & Procedure topics not covered by above »
  Discussion on Do we treat our horses too good?
Author Message
Member:
Scooter

Posted on Saturday, Jan 21, 2006 - 8:55 am:

Dr.O. and H.A. members I have decided to quit babying my horses. We have 35 acres of hills and valleys, yet I have kept them on 5 acres and feed them well. I decided they can go out and pick grass and run around the hills. Cut their hay way back and said get going. They are not starved believe me this is hard for me. What a difference in all 3. They think they went to heaven (except the removal of grain). They are in better shape, better attitude, and more bright. I know not all people have access to 35 acres, but can we baby them to much? Mine still had 5 acres yet they stood around begging for food, so I started playing games with them to get them moving, it was great, at first they thought I was a little nutty, but started looking forward to it. I know so many people like (I was) and overfeed and fuss so much they don't actually enjoy their horse. I hope my new tough love helps them. It sure seems to. I do still lock them in the 5 acres at night so I am not completely cured yet but getting there. So Dr.O. can we baby them to much? I've been trying to get tough for years. I think I need some support as I fight with myself over this. Thanks
Member:
Scooter

Posted on Saturday, Jan 21, 2006 - 9:08 am:

Coming in after a hard day in the back 40. (mean old mom made them)
Member:
Jojo15

Posted on Saturday, Jan 21, 2006 - 11:23 am:

nice pic... although i am not at your level yet. I did move onto my own property 1.5 acres. So, going from an always stalled horse, to a horse out 24/7 was a small step in the direction you are going. And i agree, she loves it. For 2.5 years she hasn't been in a stall. gone thru 4 hurricanes, and pretty much lives her own life. She is 24 and we think cushings, and i bet if she was still stalled all the time the problem would have been more ferocious. I also (well from the cushings) feed no grain, have her barefoot. And we groom only to ride. she is shiny and healthy...

So good for you. And i would bring them in at night too, unless you have a guard animal to protect them. So that isn't a regression just a smart safety move...

jojo
Member:
Paardex

Posted on Saturday, Jan 21, 2006 - 3:01 pm:

Diane,
I recently moved from the north of Holland to Normandy France with two big Holsteiners 5 and 7 years old. They were used to out during day and stabled during night.
As I moved the 1 of december I wanted to keep their schedule the same although they have here about 20 acres and a walk in stable.
After about a week I could go and get them instead of them waiting by the gate to get stabled.
I got annoyed about this behaviour and told them they could stay outside one evening when the weather was mild boy were they happy! Now they come in at about 5 eat their meal[carrots and a bit of sweetfeed] some hay lie down to sleep for a few hours and I turn them out before I go tot sleep.Less work for me and happy[though dirty] horses.
Jos
Member:
Warwick

Posted on Saturday, Jan 21, 2006 - 3:40 pm:

Diane, what fabulous property you have and 35 acres! Makes my 5 acres (more likely 4 of straight pasture) seem so teeny in comparison and I thought I was doing good!

I try to keep all my guys out as much as possible as it's so good for their physical and mental wellbeing. Our property has hilly parts which are fabulous for developing the young ones and maintaining the older ones.

Unfortunately the very wet Northwest winters here pose a real challenge as if I let them romp in the fields between mid-December and late March, they'd make such a mudpit I would have no pasture left for the rest of the year. So they are condemned to spend 3 months each year in winter paddocks. I have made the paddocks as large as I possibly can but they are certainly no match for 12 months of pasture turnout. Mine get turned out for a minimum of 12 hours in winter and around 15 hours in summer regardless of the weather as they all have access to shelters. However all come in at night even in the summer as the mosquitoes here can be very nasty in the evenings and despite bug sheets and sprays, they still get bitten and all seem very happy to head inside at dusk. Not the optimal, I know, but I justify it in my mind by knowing that my older horses are in steady work and have heavy show schedules for a large part of the year so a respite from the bugs is their reward.

However I completely agree with you that 24/7 turnout is the best situation and totally agree that most of us are guilty of spoiling our beasties. My poor husband says when he dies he wants to come back as one of my horses or cats. Hmmm...he might be on to something there! But it's just so darned easy to assign human frailties to them as opposed to allowing them to be the resilient creatures that nature intended.

Jos - would love to see some photos of your Normandy home. What a lovely part of the world!
Member:
Scooter

Posted on Saturday, Jan 21, 2006 - 5:39 pm:

Thanks guys, I think I have been killing my horses with kindness, which I see other people do quite often too. I know 24/7 turnout isn't available to alot of people and I guess I wonder do I over supplement, over feed, over vaccinate, and over obsess. Well I DO. I am going back to basics and quit obsessing + it will be alot cheaper. Sometimes I think I make their health problems worse than they are. Heck a supplement isn't going to fix my arthritic mare, but some exercise and weight loss will go alot farther. This summer I shaved my cushing horses hair, got his weight right and slowly built him up. He had never felt so good. Do we bring on or at least excaberate these diseases with our kindness? I don't know but I am going to make some management changes and see. Wish me luck. I hope in a few mos. I am not crying here to DR.O. about all my problems we shall see. Thanks
Member:
Dsibley

Posted on Saturday, Jan 21, 2006 - 8:41 pm:

I have learned a lot from the people who currently board my horses. The animals are outside as much as possible. I learned that they are much happier outside, and healthier as well. They have a 40+ acre pasture, and leave them outside all night when weather permits. It is so amusing to see them when weather is bad...usually the indoor arena is open during rain/snow storms so the ponies can choose to be in or out. All stay outside. The barn owners don't charge extra for the 'rain rinse' on their coats! lol.

As you have probably read in prior posts, my husband and I are building our own boarding facility. The owners of our current barn are helping us design the best place possible. We have spent a lot of time trying to design a barn that meets the needs of the people, but bottom line is that my motto will be..."My way, or the highway". I will look out for the welfare of the critters, and if someone wants a prima-donna or a spoiled brat, they can pretty much look elsewhere. I want healthy, well-adjusted animals at my barn. Unless there is a true health issue, they will be outside as much as possible, with as much running room as we can give them!
Member:
Leilani

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 12:23 am:

Gosh, I have thought about this a lot. I know I baby my horses, but...

They are out 24/7. Even in Hawai'i we have some mean rain and wind, but not as severe as the mainland. We had a really wet and cold winter last year and my mares would go under the bottom lanai. I would dry them and make sure everything was fine and then they would go back out into the rain.

Our next project is a 3 sided run-in shed so that they can get out of the elements if they so desire. They prefer to be outside with their butts to the wind. Take care.
Member:
Scooter

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 7:07 am:

I had a new lean to and paddock built for my horses, actually I built the paddock, because I thought they needed some where nice to go. They hardly use it, but at least I don't have to worry about it anymore. I went out this summer in a horrible thunderstorm because of the lightning strikes. They were standing out in the pasture. Go Figure.
Member:
Ajudson1

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 9:41 am:

I think it's terrible the way most people treat their horses....killing them with kindness!!! I am always amazed at the padded stalls, expensive blankets, and buckets of supplements some people "need" to care for their horses.

My favorite concept is that we must bed our horses down so that when they urinate their legs don't get splattered! O my, what happens to a horse living outside? Doesn't urine splatter when it hits the hard ground too? Maybe we should invent a diaper for these pampered pets.

This winter my horses have use of their biggest pasture, about 3 acres. They are having a ball pawing thru the snow and playing. Once it thaws they have to go back into the smaller area which is all mud, and they will be bored and unhappy I know. I wish I could fence in all our woods (another 15 acres) and let them go, but unfortunately they will destroy the trees which are an income for our future.

Diane, good for you for letting your horses be horses. I think you'll save a fortune in vet bills, and supplement bills this way.
Member:
Hwood

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 10:30 am:

Diane, your lean to is lovely and just what I picture when we get our pastures set up.
Horses are most happy when they can be together grazing, playing -- no doubt about it. Horses have always represented "freedom" to me . . . and seeing them kept contained in stalls and paddocks without the choice of coming and going as they please creates angst in me . . . there is a happy medium somewhere . . . I think Diane has found it.

Some observations:

Movement is much better for horses, yet sometimes it is safer for them to be confined when there are conditions such as packed ice, slimey mud, lightning storms, etc., or if the horse has special needs.

Horses want to stick together, and an injured horse will often run with the herd even if it causes him pain.

I have known of several instances in which horses and cows have been struck and killed by lightning, the most recent was in July when we were visiting a neighbor in Kansas. There was a brutal storm while we were there, and two of the three horses owned by our neighbor's friend were killed as they stood out in the storm.

If there is no windbreak or relief from cold rain, sleet and wind, it is better to bring the horses in, especially if they have trouble keeping weight on or are older.

It won't kill horses to have urine splash their legs, but horses will seek out a soft place in which to urinate . . . they don't like to have the urine splash their legs, and I have watched them search for the softest place. At the ranch here in CA, the ground would either be "slick as snot" (as my husband says) or as unforgiving as cement. The horses resigned themselves to peeing on the cement-like dirt unless I left a small area of shavings in the paddocks. They would always seek out that pile of shavings.

If predator animals have residence in the areas where we keep our horses, sometimes the horses may not ever really REST. They take turns keeping watch over one another, but when they are out in the open, they are always on guard. I have a friend who insists that when she brings her horses into the barn at night, that they literally let down their guards and sleep soundly in a way that she never sees when they are out in pasture (which is bordered by swamp, fields and mountains.) She believes that having the horses come into the closed barn at night into their own stalls gives them the opportunity to feel totally secure and not have to "watch" at night.

Horses have survived for eons without us providing cushy perks, but since we have domesticated them, we often have them in situations in which it is our responsibility to provide what they can't find for themselves. There will always be horses who get killed by lightning or who slip on ice or mud and injure themselves . . . They even get hurt while playing in perfect pastures, as Sara shared about two foals in a different post yesterday.

Much of what we do for our horses makes US feel better, and we can actually cause long-term harm to our horses by catering to our own fears, yet, there ARE times and situations in which it may be more advantageous for our animals if we provide them with common-sensical benefits in exchange for all they provide to us.
Member:
Scooter

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 10:47 am:

I agree Hollywood, There are horse owners who don't have the luxury of owning their own property. I agree some horses need blankets etc. due to owners showing etc. In my situation the horses are pleasure animals and the old mare retired. I have been feeding and babying them way too much. Routine care is not going by the wayside, however I think I have been "killing them with kindness" I am going to cut supplements and just see if it makes a difference. It is easy to get carried away with all the commercialism(sp) and so many varying opinions on horse care. This web site is great as DR.O. is very down to earth. Everyone has their own style and well its time for me to change. Thanks
Member:
Mrose

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 11:21 am:

Diane, I'm very interested in your lean-to. How is it constructed? We are about to build one in our stallion pen and yours is just what I want.

Bad lightening storms are the one thing I really fear as far as the horses are concerned. I bring all the horses into the barn if I know one is coming.

Our horses get turned out every day, except in freezing rain, heavy wet snow, and really bad winds. (Anything under 25mph is considered a light breeze around here!) Horses that are showing are stalled and blanketed at night as are my "old girls." If it's really hot or buggy, the horses are kept in during the day and out at night. When it's real wet they take turns getting turned out in the arena as I don't want the fields all torn up.

We have about 50 acres, but only use 10 for turnouts as the rest is for hay. The 10 is divided into three small pastures which is plenty of room for them to run around.

Horses shouldn't be treated like hot-house plants, but I do like to baby them some, especially my older mares as I feel they deserve it and they seem to like it. And I think the going in and out is good for the young ones as they get handled at least twice a day that way.
Member:
Scooter

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 11:57 am:

Hi, Sara We have terrific winds here also. I use to have one of those portable shelters, it weighed 2 ton and was anchored but the wind picked it up and blew it anyway. That was the last straw and why I had this one built it is very sturdy. Also I had about 3 ft of lime put in and packed for the inside of lean to and also the paddock NO MUD its great. I had some one who specializes in pole buildings do it. The lean to and grading came to $5500 it is very big tho and I can gate off 3 12x12 stalls if needed. The roof has roof rafters and beams just like our house the inside is lined with wood 4.5 ft up. here is a pic of the inside kinda.
Member:
Mrose

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 1:00 pm:

Lime? Like ground up rock?? (only lime we have around her comes in a bag.)

Is that regular metal siding on the outside?

It really looks nice. Nice looking horses, too!
Member:
Mrose

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 1:02 pm:

btw-Is that your older mare on the outside?
Member:
Scooter

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 1:39 pm:

It's actually ag lime you get it from a rock quarry. It's the same stuff you lime your fields with. It costs about $2 ton in my area + delivery I got about 8 tons I think and it ran about $250 delivered and spread with a bobcat. It is kinda the consistency of sand, but once you water it down and pack it, I DrOve our lawn mower back and forth on it to do this. It packs like cement, altho a little more forgiving. It will get a little dusty in the summer. It stays dry and mud free in the spring and winter. That includes the outside paddock, which is 60x48 very cheap for mud free.
That is the old mare (Flash) she is at least 26 yrs. old. She is the mother of the one closest to her. She was my sons pony when he was young. He's now 26. We have had her for 20 yrs. and she taught many a beginner to ride.
Moderator:
DrO

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 4:15 pm:

Diane, you can be our hot-house-horse poster child. Remember to make feed changes slowly, particularly forage changes. Good quality feed and good deworming are very important, carefully chose what vaccines your horses really needs not all that is available, and give them plenty of room to exercise. Their condition will be good and any behavioral problems you might have will probably straighten right out.
DrO
Member:
Scooter

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 5:55 pm:

Actually DrO. Poor-house-horse poster child would be more fitting. Thanks for the advice. I'm not changing any feed just slowly eliminating them. I have no behavioral with theses horse. The vet & shoer said they were the best behaved he's been around. Their just fat and spoiled.
Member:
Ajudson1

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 6:50 pm:

Holly & Sara,

I think you both covered just about every instance when a horse needs to be kept in. Funny how many years it took me to figure out that's it better to stall the horses during the times bad weather is a possibility before the bad weather actually hits! Many nights I was outside in my pj's, sweats over them and a coat hastily thrown on to try and get horses in when the wind came up, lightening strikes going on, or hearing rain on the roof knowing the temp is really close to freezing. Of coures the horses don't always want to come in then either, which makes it dang right dangerous.

I've heard of more horses being struck by lightening, or hit by flying barn parts in a wind storm, than I have ever heard of them freezing to death. I don't know about the heat thing, haven't heard of any dieing from that in my area, but I am sure it happens.

And I am not totally heartless with the urine splashing, my horses, when stalled, get plenty of hay on the floor. Now I know why the first thing they do is paw some back, and pee on it!! I actually thought I was being generous so they had bedding, guess it was just to provide a toilet.

Diane,

How "forgiving" is the lime? Do the horses paw holes in it? And how dusty are we talking? I am thinking this is the same stuff I mixed in the sand under my stall floors...white like flour? Is it slippery when wet?

What about when snow slides off our metal roof onto it? How thick would I want it?

We have a major mud problem under the roof line, and the horses also stand there next to the barn under the roof. I have actually lost my boots walking through it, pretty mucky. And sand helps, but blows everywhere.

If we're getting too off subject, just email me with answers and DrO can delete this part of the post. (Depending on his mood!)

Thanks,

Angie

2bri4j@dsnet.us
Member:
Mrose

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 6:58 pm:

Diane, haven't your heard "I used to have money, but now I have horses." ??

Angie-you and me both. We didn't have a barn the 1st winter we lived here. I'd wake up a 2a.m. and throw on sweats and slicker and boots, grab a flashlight and go out and check the horses. The horses always seemed fine (they all had heavy waterproof blankets on) After loosing a boot and falling face first in the mud while the wind blown sleet fell on me, I gave up the middle of the night checks.
Member:
Quatro

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 8:20 pm:

Hi, great place for ponies dianne. I am in Iowa, so we have gobs and gobs of mud in the spring. The lime sounds great for outside my barn doors, where it gets soupy. I have horses with hoof problems, and wonder if you know if the lime would dry out their feet, or be a problem at all. Maybe Dr. O has an opinion on this?
I, like a lot of us on this site, spoil my horses rotten. The bad part about taking away the ability to spoil my horses, would probably take away 1/2 of the fun I have in horse ownership. I have customers tell me that they "know they should not spoil their dogs". My response to them, is always "Why Not"!
Although, I must admit, it has been cold here, so I have not spent as much time out with the horses, and they have been doing great!
My old horse, had never lived in a barn all of his life. He is the first one at the door screaming to get in now. No competition for food, soft place to lay down, nobody waking him up but the rooster.
I sure hope the lime is ok on feet, because it would be a wonderful tip!
suz
Member:
Scooter

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 9:30 pm:

My farrier and vet both said the lime was fine for feet, as far as the lime goes it has not caused foot problems. The important thing with the lime is to spread it,drench it with water and pack it in layers. As I said I DrOve my riding lawn mower back and forth and watered and DrOve more took me a good part of the day. The first year you have it down seems the dustiest. After that it settles with the weather and the horses stomping it. No they can not paw thru it and no it is not slippery actually it provides traction. If you'd like I could take a pic of it tomorrow and post it. It is in my paddock all mud free. When it get really wet after a snow melt sometimes the horses will leave little divots in it with their feet. I swear by the stuff after losing many a boot in the mud. Oh and I never feed hay on it as like sand I would be scared of colic. I have hay feeder hanging in the lean-to or I feed them on the ground outside. The spoiled brats also have one side of the lean-to bedded to sleep on, which they do. I only have to add a bag every 2 weeks or so because they are potty trained and usually go outside. I will take pics and post them tomorrow.
Member:
Scooter

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 9:36 pm:

Angie the lime is yellow colored. It sounds like the stuff you used is like the bagged lime, not the same thing.
Member:
Kami

Posted on Sunday, Jan 22, 2006 - 10:10 pm:

I'm confused, isn't ag lime the same lime you use to freshen stalls? My understanding was that it reacts with the amonia in urine, so wouldn't that be a problem as footing?

Here we use crushed limestone (gravel consistency, white/grey rocks)... not sure how that relates to ag lime, but comes from the quary.

My horses are out 24/7 and when they had access to all areas every afternoon the whole group (9 horses) would suddenly run at break neck speed from the farthest corner and swoop around the farm and end up at the water tub snorting and blowing(about a 1.5 mile loop)... made really cool thundering sound, kept them in great shape and you could see they were having a ball.

But alas, soil management has broken up their big space into smaller 'managed' spaces and I'd probably be hard pressed to get a solid 1/2 mile gallop out of them now :-(
Moderator:
DrO

Posted on Monday, Jan 23, 2006 - 7:39 am:

Concerning the lime issue, folks above are confusing ag lime with hydrated lime.

The hydrated lime is somewhat caustic but when placed on urine spots and wetted down then covered with bedding has an acceptable safety level and does help lower air ammonia levels.

What Diane is using a above is ag lime and consists of crushed dolomite and limestone (Ca and MgCO4 mainly I think) and perfectly safe.
DrO
Member:
Ajudson1

Posted on Monday, Jan 23, 2006 - 8:08 am:

DrO,

Thanks for clarifying that. Of course I have another question now. The base of the floors is the sand which was put there to put the barn up, over which I put small gravel at about 4" deep. I sprinkled the lime over that. It's covered with Paper Mill "felt"...which is a very heavy nylon that is porous. Urine does drain through it. Need I worry about the lime dust? Is inhaling it bad? It was "poofing" through at first, but now it's settled. Just wondering for in the future as I can take the flooring off as needed to add more lime, or if the gravel needs leveling.

Sorry Diane, not meaning to take over your postings!!!
Moderator:
DrO

Posted on Monday, Jan 23, 2006 - 8:23 am:

Yes inhaling it is irritating but I am unable to judge if you are still having a problem with aerosolization, Angie.
DrO
Member:
Scooter

Posted on Monday, Jan 23, 2006 - 2:55 pm:

Dr.O. is right on the mark with his description. Here our some pics of my (mud free) paddock. In the close up it shows what it looks like and also about the worse it gets. They are Hanks shoe prints, he also has ice studs on. It doesn't rip up easily, if put down correctly.


Member:
Ajudson1

Posted on Monday, Jan 23, 2006 - 6:33 pm:

Thanks Diane & DrO...very helpful description and pictures.

I don't have any dust with my lime in the stalls at this point, so I feel it's safe. I goofed in my post above, the lime was mixed with the sand before the gravel was put over it. I doubt it will ever work it's way up.

Now I see I can spend money on that "horsey" project,and the sand I want in the arena will have to wait...drat.
Member:
Scooter

Posted on Saturday, Jan 28, 2006 - 11:57 am:

Dr.O. The poor abused horses have now taken to eating all the water crest out of the creek. Is it ok for horses? They all have lost 60#'s and are doing well on their wild horse regimen. Thanks
Moderator:
DrO

Posted on Saturday, Jan 28, 2006 - 6:02 pm:

As far as I know Diane it is OK, I have never heard of water crest poisoning. More important than the number of lbs you estimate a horse has is a estimate of his condition. We have an article on estimating condition at Care for Horses » Particular Situations & Procedures » Weight, Condition, and Eventual Height Estimation. Can you feel the ribs yet?
DrO
Member:
Scooter

Posted on Saturday, Jan 28, 2006 - 7:28 pm:

Dr.O. The day I can feel a rib on one of these horses will be a day of great celebration for me. I might even have a drink. Their body condition is 7+ and if I push hard I can fill a rib. With my tough love program they are starting to look like horses again. YAAAH!!!! Thanks for answering the water crest question.
Member:
Scooter

Posted on Sunday, Feb 12, 2006 - 9:15 am:

A little update on my tough love. My slightly foundered gelding is now 100% sound and galloping on hard ground. The cushings gelding is shedding his yak hair like it is March, and the old arthritic mare cantered for the first time in 2 years. She actually leads the geldings out to pasture, which is a first. I hope it continues. Their weight loss and exercise program continues, I do weaken occasionally but not often.
New Member:
Djws

Posted on Wednesday, Apr 5, 2006 - 4:53 pm:

Hi!
I am 52 and as of August of last year, a new horse owner! My horse is currently in a barn 1 mile from my house (very convenient). His stall is 24' X 12' and he has a run-in that is 30' X 20'. There are two pastures, about 3 acres each. The paddock area is quite large. With two gates open, he has access to both pastures, the paddock, run-in and stalls. My buddy is "alone". The owners of the barn had horses for 30 years and do not want the responsibility of boarding and caring for other's horses any longer. I would like him to have a goat, donkey or, another horse for a companion. The property owners say, "no". For now, I try to be with him at least 3-4 hours a day. Our agreement is wonderful, I take care of my horse, keep the barn clean, the pasture manure picked up, mow the fields, mend fences, whatever needs done, etc. and pay no rent. The owners give me some advice but, they have never had pleasure horses and have never ridden. I know that I go overboard with this new "man" in my life. Carrots, bitless bridles, blankets, bedding, a radio in the barn, a new round pen (John Lyon's 60'), fly masks, predators, Jolly Balls, a Hot Wash outfit, well, I buy anything that I think will make his/my life more comfortable. He is a retired harness racing horse (Standardbred)and is 13 years old. I believe that he previously was not handled kindly (many trainers and many locations). It has taken me 8 months to establish a relatively trusting relationship with this guy! Initially, I was afraid of him and he was quite indifferent to me! I strive to do all of the right things with him. Anyway, I live in Ohio and we have all four seasons. During the winter, I put him in at night. If it was 20 or below, I also put a blanket on him. I DO believe he rested more in the stall because he felt secure. In the summer months, he has access to his stall with large fans that help keep him cooler and to assist keeping the flies off of him! He has a history of laminitis (otherwise, excellent health) and I am VERY reluctant to put him in the pasture. He is currently in the paddock and run-in areas with access to his stall (if) he wants. I bought him a muzzle BUT, he doesn't even attempt to graze and returns to the barn to sulk (he won't run or anything and yes, I've even tried to show him that he CAN get SOME grass through the hole in the muzzle-no dice)! Our grass is very rich from now (April), until the first of July. I have just begun to longe him in the round pen for exercise. My Vet recently told me that the weight/condition of this horse is the best he has seen him since he was retired from racing (3 years ago)! I am anticipating riding him in the next few weeks (my confidence is growing). The "Mr." and "Mrs". (barn owners) think I spoil him rotten. Please understand that they don't chastise me, they tease me. They tell me I spend more on him than he is worth (he is priceless to me)! I feed and groom him twice a day. On the weekends, I also spend 6-8 hours (each day) at the barn doing anything to be near him. I don't know any other horse owners or riders in the area. I obtain my ideas and advice from this site and all the reading material I can get my hands on! Am I hurting or helping this guy? My kids are grown and gone (youngest a sophomore in college), I am single and I admit, I am obsessed with this new addition in my life. It has been my dream for 30 years! As I read your posts, I am worried that he is not getting to be a horse. Do you think he is too coddled? I don't know what is normal for a lone horse...everybody seems to have more than one. Am I selfish to keep him where he is alone? I can't afford another arrangement. How do you all determine what is right for your horse? I have actually seen the wild horses in the Pryor Mountains (Montana) several times so, I understand that all of the "stuff" isn't necessary and horses can survive on their own. BUT, is the pampering harming my horse? Is it wrong to make him a "pet"? I definitely want to enjoy the pleasure of riding my horse but then again, I would be happy with just his companionship. I want him to be happy also.
Member:
Scooter

Posted on Wednesday, Apr 5, 2006 - 5:36 pm:

Hi DJ sounds like you are doing great with your horse! There's nothing wrong with pampering them, I way overspend on my horses also. As far as treating them too good, I was referring more to over feeding, supplementing, and just not letting them be horses. He should be fine by himself as it sounds like you visit often. Enjoy your new horse!!!!
Member:
Erika

Posted on Wednesday, Apr 5, 2006 - 7:55 pm:

DJ, I want to come back as your horse!
As a former racer, he was probably used to spending a lot of time alone in a stall. Don't worry about company if he's content. Some horses really are okay on their own. I would still let him out on the pasture with the muzzle, though. as much as possible. It is good for him to be out and he will eat some grass for good vitamins, etc. Remember, even if you are there for eight hours a day, there are still a lot of hours when you aren't there to keep him entertained.
Good luck with the riding. I hope you have smooth sailing. You sound like a kind owner, and I wish you luck.
New Member:
Djws

Posted on Thursday, Apr 6, 2006 - 1:06 pm:

Thanks Diane and Erika!

It certainly helps to have someone to talk to about my new venture!

He was alone in a stall but, there were other horses next to him and many in the same barn while he was racing. He also was on the track with other pacers everyday, jogging, training or racing.

Also, I only spend 3-4 hours a day with him through the week and the weekends, well, it's 8 or more. I can't stay away from him.

He does seem content. From August until October there was a 2 year old at the barn with him. My horse seemed totally out of sorts the entire time. It was a battle for me to even touch him. As soon as the young one left for training ( and not coming back), he was a different guy! I do believe he is very jealous of my giving attention to anyone (he wants to push other people away from me but, I don't allow that behavior).

Do you have any suggestions how I might get him to eat through this muzzle? Seriously, he just stands there and glares at me. Then, he will return to the paddock and do nothing! I have taken him with a lead and tried to encourage him to graze. This horse is an eating machine-it's his favorite pass-time. (They called him Munch Mouth at the track). Without the muzzle, he can clear a swath of land that looks like a 36 inch mower blade just passed by! I experienced a laminitis/founder episode with him early in my ownership (the barn owner let him out too long-no longer a problem). I NEVER want to see him like that again. It was awful. I love to see him out under his favorite tree standing with the deer...I miss that and I am sure he does too!
How long should I allow him to be out with the muzzle? I prefer being there when he is out in case he finds a way to get the contraption off!

I hope I have smooth sailing too...just not over the top of his head LOL!!!!
Member:
Muffi

Posted on Thursday, Apr 6, 2006 - 6:37 pm:

DJ - I know nothing of Muzzles - in AZ we have dust. but as far as taking care of your baby. I do the same I am turning 50 this year and will have had my boys for 2 years now. It was something I wanted all my life. SOme where some one in HA noted an article that talked about what kind of horse you have. I think the apropiate term was TRUST FUND BABY. That is what we have here girl. You and I - a bunch of trust fund babies in the barn. I don't regret a minute - hour or day I spend with them. I go out there some times just to hug and be there. One of my favorite things is to sit up on the fence and listen to them munch their hay when they are eating at nite! Don't let any one make you feel guilty. but do make sure he gets his exercise...
in the pasture or that round pen.
Member:
Shirl

Posted on Friday, Apr 7, 2006 - 12:27 am:

Muffi and All, I have a Trust Fund Baby without the Trust Fund!! How's that. I need to update my information, but I just acquired my replacement horse for Sierra who went to the Bridge 18 months ago. I'll be 70 in May, and let me tell you she keeps me going and is the love of my life. I wish I had my own place for her but she is just 3 miles away so I see her often. I live in Tucson, AZ. Horses are the most wonderful healers, therapists in the world.
Shirl
Member:
Scooter

Posted on Friday, Apr 7, 2006 - 6:15 am:

DJ my horses wouldn't tolerate the muzzle either, they went nuts. If you can keep his weight good, (not fat) maybe you can slowly acclimate him to grass. It would probably help if you started a different post under founder and laminitis and ask Dr.O. He is a big help. and can help guide you thru nutrition, weight, and exercise. I am sure other people will ring in also as to what helped them, also there is a very good article in here about it. Good Luck with your boy
Member:
Canter

Posted on Friday, Apr 7, 2006 - 7:48 am:

Congrats! Shirley on your new horse. I wish you many wonderful years of fun & happiness. Can we see a picture of your new baby (my apologies if I missed it posted somewhere else, been travelling for work and haven't been able to read every post this week )
Member:
Warwick

Posted on Friday, Apr 7, 2006 - 11:36 am:

Shirl, that is awesome news about you getting a new horse! I remember that you were looking at one but didn't know that you had actually bought her. You must be in 7th heaven! I know we all second Fran's desire to see a photo posted of her if possible.

Sue
Member:
Shirl

Posted on Friday, Apr 7, 2006 - 12:05 pm:

Thanks Sue and Fran,
Unfortunately, I don't have a digital camera or photo printer, but she is full blooded Arab, 14 years old, was terribly depressed as she lost her owner 9 months ago, thus was put in with a herd of horses in a desert area, where she was left pretty much without any human interaction which depressed her after an elderly owner gave her lots of attention. When I met her, even though she'd never seen me before, she stood stock still, put her head into my chest and just stood there. It was if she sensed my loss and grieving for Sierra, and I definitely sensed hers. My friend was with me the second time I saw her and picked up the same thing. Well, this same friend came to visit where she is now, and couldn't believe it was the same horse, personality wise! Wide eyed, happy, bright and full of herself. She's definitely a happy camper where she is in a nice barn with turn outs and lots of activity for her to see. She is Chestnut colored (I'd call it sorrel)but what do I know? She has reddish gold mane and tail and is a real cutie. No depression left, though at times I could use a little of that 'quietness'! I don't ride much due to back problems, but spend time with her 3-4 times a week anyway. Again thanks for your interest. Love, Shirl
Member:
Shirl

Posted on Friday, Apr 7, 2006 - 12:26 pm:

PS from Shirl
forgot to tell you her Registered Name is - hold on to your seat--Jitter Bug Dancer! Needless to say, she is now "Sedona". It sort of honors Sierra's name and she is in Sierra's old stall, and--she has that Sedona, AZ color!
Cheers, Shirl
Member:
Warwick

Posted on Friday, Apr 7, 2006 - 1:11 pm:

She sounds gorgeous and it certainly seems like you two were destined for each other. Funny how these things just seem to happen isn't it?
Member:
Paul303

Posted on Saturday, Apr 8, 2006 - 2:57 am:

AAAaawww, shucks, Shirl......enjoy, enjoy. Each time a horse enters your life, your heart gets bigger.
Member:
Paul303

Posted on Saturday, Apr 8, 2006 - 3:01 am:

Of course, as in science, an opposite but equal force exerts itself on your wallet.
Member:
Mrose

Posted on Saturday, Apr 8, 2006 - 11:31 am:

I love her name, Shirley! I hope you figure out the picture thing; I'd like to see her! It sounds like the two of you "were meant to be." I'm so glad for you!

(I hope she came with water wings; my husband was down in your area a couple of weeks ago on a bike ride and about DrOwned!!)
Member:
Djws

Posted on Monday, Apr 10, 2006 - 3:59 pm:

Thanks to all of you!

Diane, I have just read some more of the info from Dr. O on this site about laminitis. I will try to gather my thoughts and get more detailed on my questions about his laminitis and post to him in that section!

Muffi, I wish I had a trust fund for my baby too! I'd work a second full-time job for him (if I had to), that's for sure. I, too, enjoy all the sounds and smells (yep!, even the manure) associated with my pal. He brings such peace to my life).

Shirley, my mother lives in Tucson-by Golf Links and Bonanza...do you know that area? Congrats on your new addition-glad you found each other!

Just an additional note...I went to the Equine Affaire in Columbus, Ohio, this weekend. Saw John Lyons, Monty Roberts, Julie Goodnight, Curt Pate, Chris Cox, and Lew Sterrett in their clinics-amazing! They make it all look so easy! I DID learn a lot! I also attended some seminars on nutrition, etc., and was able to ask questions. It was great fun and relaxing to be amongst so many people with the same love of horses!
4 glorious days of horses, horse information, horse products and horse people.

The best part was that I met several other Standardbred horse owners that have retired pacers. They were so quick to share their experiences with me and give me lots of advice and encouragement. I believe more than ever that some of these guys just need more time to "settle" into a life of love and security and firm kind handling. It was also suggested to me that my horse could be a bit "sour" because he was used to being jogged everyday at the track and he is unhappy with not being worked (exercised). So...I am getting my saddle back to the barn (instead of my house) and... I am going to take the next big step. RIDING! Wish me luck! Baby steps!
Home Page | Top of Page | Join Us!
Horseadvice.com is a BBB Accredited Business. Click for the BBB Business Review of this Horse Training in Stokesdale NC