Here's the thing about our current barn. It is absolutely gorgeous. The grass is so lush that Hampton is now borderline fat. I stopped feeding him grain as soon as we got here. Hamps looks probably the best he ever has. He lives in a massive field with plenty of shade, a run-in, a friggin pond, his own flock of geese and other horsie friends. The trail riding is unbelieveable. We are literally next door to other eventing facilities. There is a nice dressage arena and pleasant jumping field.
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| Our hack back to the field. Oh boo hoo. |
... BUT. Here's the part where I sound like a spoiled brat.
Because I chose pasture board (for financial reasons, and because Hamps likes living outside. Plus he is a PIG in his stall.), we are banished at least a quarter of a mile out away from the main barn and arenas. When I want to ride, I drive my truck out and park next to Hampton's field. If I'm lucky, the horses will be somewhat close. Some days, I can't even find them and have to start hiking.
To tack up, I tie him to the fence. Fine and dandy, no biggie. But there is no hose, NO source of water at all, no electricity. A minor annoyance, really. But what really bothers me is that should I get hurt (kicked in the head or otherwise unable to call for help), NO ONE would find me for HOURS. Possibly days. From Hampton's field, you cannot even see the main barn due the hills. The day Hamps almost got stuck in the fence scared me because no one would hear me scream for help. I felt helpless.
I know, I sound spoiled. It's a gorgeous farm and I should feel lucky. But frankly, riding alone like that is stupid. It takes us a good 7-8 minutes to walk from the field to the arenas to work. I have encountered numerous deer on this walk. Again - what if I get dumped? Most mornings I am the only one riding (the barn is mostly weekend warriors).
I dunno. Maybe I am turning into a spoiled DQ.
So I started looking around for other barns.
Ugh is all I have to say.
... to be continued.
I think your worry is totally valid! I don't even ride Henry if no one is around- he is young and still so green. Thought normally there is someone around the barn being that there are 3 trainers :)
ReplyDeleteGood luck shopping!
I get it, I do. I love riding alone, but it's really nice to have other people "milling about" most days. Scenery is great, and it sounds like Hamps has a close to perfect life. However, you need to stay safe-not to mention your horse. What if something did happen to him? And what if you don't go out to the barn for a day or two? Yikes. Good luck searching. By the way, I love your blog titles. Twin Peaks? "I am the Great Went" "I am the Muffin". LOL, I hope that's the reference, otherwise now I sound crayzee:)
ReplyDeleteI think safety is a priority and that situation is not safe. Sounds like it would be fine for a retiree or a once in a while ride, but not on a daily basis. You will be able to find turnout and a safe environment.
ReplyDeletedo you know what? it's your money and your horse and your safety so you get to say how your money get spent on your horse!
ReplyDeleteTake a look, there might be a better option for you. I would not like having to tie to the fence at all.