Horses Arabian

Made decision to sale one of my mares. How to deal?

I purchased 2 mares almost 2 years ago. Both are Arabians. Lyla is very herd bound to Marli. She has gotten to the point that I do not consider her safe to be around. I've tried separating them. It only takes 1 day for the problem to come back. I also do not have the experience to ride such a horse. I have worked with her on her ground manners and she shows improvement one day and the next she is a totally different horse, rearing, dancing and rushing at me at the gate. I tried to get a trainer for her but after 4 days, she gave me my money back. Several people that have watched me with her and tried to handle her themselves agree that she has a love/hate attitude that points to abuse in the past. I have come to the decision that while she is some better, someone with more experience than I would be better for her. The fear I see in her has only diminished a little in our time together. I want more for her. I have put the word out that for the right person, I would consider giving her to them. The person would have to have lots of experience with Arabians and problem horses in general. Otherwise I will keep her myself rather than taking the chance that she would end up with someone that would be cruel to her instead of working with her. How do I deal with letting her go? Just got word that the farm that bred Lyla has lost her sire (he had to be about 34) in the last year and they would love to have her back so they can continue his bloodline! So I know she will be going to a good home that knows her. Still gonna cry though to loose my wild child.

Public Comments

1. I love your heart. I know exactly how you feel. I have a mare that is too much for me and am afraid to sell her for fear of what might happen to her. People can be so cruel and keep horses in some of the worst environments. If your really giving her away you will be able to really pick out the right home for her. Write up a contract that should they ever have to get rid of her she is to go to an equal or better home for free. (You don't want them to just turn around and sell her to just anybody). Its so hard. We feel so responsible for them because they can't look out for themselves. You are doing the right thing. If the person who gets her fixes her she'll be a much better horse and better horses get better homes. Also you could let her go on loan at first until your really sure about the people.
2. It's a hard decision, but it sounds as though you are making the right one for this case. If you find a good home for your mare ask the new owners if it would be okay to come and visit the mare. It makes it easier if you still have the ability to know how the mare is doing, and although it is hard to let her go, you will find that if she goes to a great home that is really caring for her the way you like, it makes your decision so much easier. Good luck with your mare, I hope you find a great home for her.
3. I am so sorry to hear that, actually, you sound like you are the perfect owner for this horse, because of your care for it, although, you know it has problems. I think you are making the right decision, and the only way to deal with that is to just keep reminding urself, it is not only better for you, but it will be better for the horse too!....not that you wouldnt take good care of it, but someone who you feel is better trained for the horse, is definately the right decision. Best of luck I hope you will find a way to ease your mind!