Downsizing
Many owners do not enjoy the benefits of their own land and stabling and therefore rely on some form of livery system to keep their horse. This means that retirement can be an extremely expensive prospect, especially if the owner wishes to take on another horse to ride.
However, there are ways to reduce costs without compromising the wellbeing of the horse:
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Look at what you are paying for at a livery yard. The yard may be expensive because it has facilities such as an indoor school or horsewalker, which a retired horse will probably not use. Look at the costs and facilities at other yards in your area that may be more basic, but still well run and perfectly adequate.
- Many horses will also be quite happy at grass livery, which is the cheapest option available. Living out also has added benefits for horses with problems like arthritis, RAO or stable vices (though make sure the terrain is suitable for arthritis sufferers.) Even finer breeds like thoroughbreds and arabs can cope with living out, though they may cost a bit more in feed and rugs. Do make sure grass livery includes access to shelter and that there is a proper system of pasture management in place.
Horses are outdoor animals. Even Thoroughbreds and Arabs can usually adapt to living out all year with rugs, shelter and plenty of feed.
- You could also look at renting a suitable field yourself, though you would need to be prepared to take on the pasture management and do all muck carting, evening checks and so on yourself. Even better, you could share a field with one or two other owners so the horses get company and you get to share out the chores!
Retirement Livery
Loaning Out
Sanctuaries
Euthanasia
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