17/08/2026
I am concerned to see an increase in livery yards offering spaces with stables and a multitude of other facilities - that then tag on the end of the advert for retirement livery with full 24/7 turnout and perhaps access to a field shelter. Everyone knows that with age comes increased care needs (not less). Is it really appropriate or kind to take a horse that has probably lived a pampered life with stables and rugs and lots of attention, and think it will be happy just chucked out in all weathers? All horses are different and perhaps a few would be happy to left alone in a field; but from our experience we find that they thrive best with individual attention to their needs and preferences catered for. At Solland this is exactly what we offer in our horse led management system.
(Pictured is Carrie, who has very firm opinions about the need for a stable!... in the winter because she doesn't like the wet and in the summer because she doesn't like the heat & flies...oh and whilst we are mentioning things we like.. breakfast is high on the list!! Carrie does not need any of these preferences. The herd she lives with has 24/7 access to a large bedded, (deep, thus dark fly free) pen with hay as required - such as now because there is no quality in what little grass is left. She is well covered (being polite to her feelings) and def does not need a feed ... no matter how small! BUT Carrie has opinions and Carries owner wants her to enjoy her retirement. So here she is in her stable of choice :D
