A New Direction

I've been putting off writing this post for weeks now, because several of the contributing factors are not things that I wish to disclose on my blog. But, the time has come for steps to be taken, and so this post must go up.


As Leo has come back to work, it's become increasingly clear that the "no limitations" stamp the vet gave when discussing what would happen if his soundness returned is a definite reality. Which is great - the best possible outcome for the entire lameness saga!


But. Because there's always a but, isn't there? But, I don't have time for two working horses. I am about to start an intensive nursing program, and money is going to become increasingly tight. But, Leo needs a job. But, but, but.


After long talks with trainers, friends, and family, I have come to the decision that it is time to start looking for a new home for Leo. When it comes down to which of my two horses is the better fit for me, the answer is easily Spring. I will be highly selective about where he goes, and I would ask that you keep any negative comments to yourself. There is a LOT that went into this decision, and it wasn't an easy one, so please don't waste my time with your opinions if they are just going to attempt to bring me down.

Comments

  1. TrainwreckInTealMarch 12, 2018 at 4:28 PM

    I'm glad Leo has recovered well soundness-wise, and I hope you are able to find him a perfect home soon! I know the pain of having to try to find a new home for a beloved equine partner, and how hurtful the comments can be. Hopefully you don't get any flak from the peanut gallery.

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  2. emmaMarch 12, 2018 at 5:06 PM

    that's a tough choice to make. i'm glad you found such a great partner in Spring and hopefully that makes it easier to feel like maybe there's that *right* partner out there for Leo too!

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  3. TheFoxRiderMarch 13, 2018 at 6:10 AM

    Awww, Leo! I'm so glad he's sound again - and crossing my fingers he can find a perfect home.

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  4. TeresaAMarch 13, 2018 at 7:08 AM

    No judgement from me! I think that you are doing the best thing. It's wonderful that he's sound again. I have one horse (Irish) who is semi-retired and needs regular exercise and it's a real struggle to keep him going. I put a lot of my focus on training Carmen. I try to find people to ride him but it's turning out to be difficult! So I get how hard it is. Leo is a lovely horse and has a bright future.

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  5. CathrynMarch 13, 2018 at 7:28 AM

    I think one of the most wonderful things about this entire situation is that Leo IS able to be a riding horse again. It's a struggle to own a horse that can't be worked/used. I was lucky enough that I could keep Suzie until she needed to cross Rainbow Bridge, but it was hard at times with the extra vet bills/medications, extra feed (she had a difficult time maintaining weight near the end), and extra board costs associated. We are amateurs - we aren't made of money. I completely understand where you are coming from, but take happiness in the fact that he IS capable of things again and therefore, can make someone really happy! With Suzie, she was an old lame horse - not very marketable, and if I didn't keep her... who would? I don't envy the decision you have to make, because I know you love him. Good luck finding him a home where he will be loved and used :) <3

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  6. L.WilliamsMarch 13, 2018 at 6:04 PM

    I'm really glad that Leo is able to come back fully and completely into work. Starting an intensive school program is no joke. When I went for my Master's it was hard enough riding and showing my one horse, I would definitely not been able to afford the money or time for 2. I hope you find the perfect home for Leo!

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  7. GennyMarch 15, 2018 at 6:20 AM

    Well this is really exciting in some ways! Good things for you, good things for him, and I think you spent the time to make the right choice. I saw your ad for him on Facebook and I hope you have an easy time finding him the perfect new home. :)

    P.S. I asked around a little at our barn and no one is hunting at the moment. If I hear anything I'll PM you a message since we aren't too far away.

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  8. DomMarch 16, 2018 at 6:17 PM

    I so wish I was in the market. What a tough choice, but it sounds like what's best for everyone.

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  9. Tracy - The Printable PonyMarch 20, 2018 at 5:33 AM

    Selling was the hardest decision I've made to date, but it turned out to be the best for me and the horse. I know you will find Leo a wonderful new home, and you'll both be happier for it!

    ReplyDelete

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