The Emotional and Practical Sides of Re-Homing a Horse
Welcome to Episode 9 of the Just Horse Riders Podcast with your host, Aaron Englander. This week, Aaron opens up about an emotional journey that many horse owners can relate to—the decision to re-home a beloved horse. “I want to start off by telling you it was a very emotional week this week,” Aaron begins, setting the stage for a story that tugs at the heartstrings of every horse enthusiast.
Why Re-Home a Horse?
Aaron shares a touching story about Thomas, a pony that has been part of his family for three years. “Thomas has been with us for about three years. When he came here he was an ex-riding school pony, so he'd done it all and was very safe, great on the lead,” Aaron recalls. The need to re-home Thomas arose not from any fault of his own but because Aaron's daughter had outgrown him, necessitating an upgrade to a more challenging companion.
Recognizing When It’s Time for Change
“You have to know when it's time to change your horse,” Aaron advises. He explains that in horse riding, as in life, progress sometimes means making hard decisions. “My daughter's gotten to a level with Thomas which she is no longer progressing with,” he states, highlighting a common dilemma many riders face. It’s not just about the horse’s ability, but about the rider’s growth and the need to be challenged.
The Impact of Change on Family
The decision to re-home Thomas was fraught with emotion. Aaron describes the impact this had on his family: “After the weekend, my daughter was incredibly emotional. And as we all were, saying goodbye to Thomas.” This poignant moment underscores the deep bonds formed between horses and their families, emphasizing that such decisions are never taken lightly.
For those interested in deepening their understanding of horse riding or looking for quality riding gear, don’t hesitate to visit our website. We have everything from jodhpurs to riding boots, tailored to enhance your riding experience.
Listen now to hear Aaron share more about this journey on YouTube or on Spotify.
The Practical Side of Re-Homing
In discussing the practical aspects of re-homing a horse, Aaron emphasizes the need for a logical approach. "In a logical side, if a horse isn't doing what you want it to do, i.e. competing-wise, then yeah, unfortunately the logical thing to do is to re-home them,” he explains. This comment sheds light on the necessity of matching a horse’s capabilities with the rider’s aspirations, ensuring both can thrive.
Financial and Emotional Costs
The decision to re-home isn't just emotional; it's also financially prudent. Aaron shares, “I’ve seen so many people get themselves into such a mess financially because they just can't let go.” He highlights the significant costs involved in keeping a horse that no longer fits the rider's needs, which can lead to financial strain and impede progress in the sport.
Supporting Horse and Rider Progression
“Are horses pets? Yes, they are. But no, they're not if you're competing them,” Aaron states, exploring the dual role horses play in the lives of their owners. This balance between affection and competition drives the necessity for re-homing to support both the horse's and rider's development. He adds, “If you're finding it easy and not really challenging yourself, then it's time to either make what you're doing more difficult or set a new challenge.”
Explore our specialized collections to support your riding progression at Turnout Rugs, Stable Rugs, and Horse Fly Protection. Enhance your equestrian lifestyle with top-quality gear designed for every season and challenge.
When Is It Time to Say Goodbye?
Aaron provides clear guidelines on when it might be time to re-home a horse. “You know you're not being challenged in what you're doing and you can apply that to anything,” he remarks. Recognizing when a horse no longer meets your competitive needs is crucial for advancing in the sport. This understanding can help riders make informed decisions that benefit both their emotional well-being and competitive ambitions.
Watch now on YouTube to delve deeper into the complexities of horse ownership as discussed by Aaron, or tune in on Spotify to listen to this insightful episode.
Learning from Each Experience
“Some people come into your life for seasons, and some are there for forever. But the ones that are coming for seasons, you've got to understand that if you outgrow these people or they're not good for you to be around, then you have to let go,” Aaron reflects, drawing a parallel between personal relationships and horse ownership. This perspective encourages personal growth and adaptation, which are essential in both life and competitive horse riding.
Integrating New Members into Your Team
The addition of Willow, a six-year-old grey mare, to Aaron’s family marks a new chapter. “She’s more forward-going. She likes to be at the front and the lead,” describes Aaron, showcasing the need for a horse that matches the rider's current level of expertise. This transition is crucial for maintaining momentum in training and competitions, illustrating the natural progression in equestrian sports.
Future Outlook and Continued Growth
“I hope my wife isn't thinking the same thing about me,” Aaron jokes, lightening the mood while discussing transitions. Such humor underscores the often bittersweet nature of these decisions. It’s about moving forward, not just for the sake of change, but for the enhancement of capabilities both in riders and their horses.
To support your journey in horse riding, explore our full range of equestrian gear at Horse Riding Gloves, Horse Riding Socks, and Horse Treats And Gifts. Each product is designed to enhance your riding experience, ensuring you and your horse are equipped for success.
Conclusion: Embrace Change, Foster Growth
“But anyway, that's all from me this week. Thank you so much for watching and we will see you next time,” concludes Aaron, wrapping up this emotionally charged episode. This sentiment not only closes the discussion but also invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences and the decisions they face in their equestrian journeys.
To learn more about how to manage changes with your horse, or to get the best advice on selecting the right equipment, visit our website or follow us on social media at Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Listen now to the full podcast on Spotify or watch now on YouTube.
