Due to age ;I find myself in a non-riding situation. At some point I may have to part with my horse and I would like to connect with caring people such as these.
So happy to read an article like this. It gives me hope that more and more people will realize that the real power of horse is not using them as a means to one's equestrian goals, but to be a true companion to the horse and let the horse be who they want to be. This will naturally promote a strong bond with the horse. I have 5 Icelandic Horses and I have not ridden in years. The non-use of horses also promotes life long care for the horse until they pass away. All but one of my horses is well over 20 years old. I have 2 that are in their 30's. Three are unrideable due to arthritis, stroke, and a leg that was broken and repaired in 2002. When I am down to only one horse, I will be looking for a companion horse. Thank you for this lovely article.
I have a handsome, sweet 13 yr.old Tennessee Walker that has been diagnosed with Trigeminal Nerve Disorder. After a year and a half of trying everything I could to keep him rideable, I have had no success, and want to find a home to retire him. He is not in pain when he is not tacked up and being ridden, and I think he could be happy just hanging out. I live in the desert and on a 1 acre lot in a development, it would be cruel to pen him here for the rest of his life , that is why I feel I need to rehome him. Some people tell me to destroy him, but I love him very much and want him to have a chance, since he is only 13. I wonder if I am being unreasonable about this.
Thank you for this wonderful article. There are so many ways you can enjoy being with your horses. We are older adults and enjoy in-hand work with our horses, fitness work over poles in the arena, and some games. We are learning many things, and it's also delightful to discover what you horse enjoys. An occasional short ride for 20-25 minutes, a gift from the horse, seems to be acceptable. But definitely, their preference appears to be fun, in-hand work. When my horse has had enough and wants to leave the arena for a walk and graze, he lets me know. He picks up the crop (only used to swat flies) and drops it -- that's his signal to go out.The more we can learn about in-hand work and (non forced) liberty work, the better. Thank you for this inspiring piece.Nuala Galbari David L. Justis, M.D.