Trying a new mare that I have no clue what will be like?

Question

Hi guys,

Well im supposed to be trying a new mare that hasnt been ridden in 3 years, nor has the anyone at the stable ever seen her be ridden. She is also blind in her left eye so is spooky on her left side. I'm also not the most advanced rider, and i took about 6 months off from riding because of financial problems )=. Although i'll be sure to come back riding before riding her..

Answer 1

be brave i have a friend that has a blind horse and after I got to no her she was such a sweetheart

Answer 2

Is the mare at a new barn? If not along as she wasn't hot headed before you should be fine. I know all to well how you feel but mine isnt blind and isnt spooky just hard to ride very sensitive mouth

Try just lunging then getting on and walking and see what that brings I mean the only thing they can do at a walk is in slow motion and you can feel it comming most of the time

Answer 3

Hi Liz. You shouldn't be the one trying her out after 3 years of her not being worked with and 6 months of you not riding. You yourself said you're not the most advanced rider. Someone who has the experience needed should try her out first. Otherwise, this sounds like a potential recipe for a not so good experience for either you or the horse, and at worst, a big accident waiting to happen. She may be fine or she might not, but let someone who is experienced try her first. I have to admit, and I'm not saying this unkindly, it concerns me that someone at your barn and I'm assuming it's the owner/manager/instructor would suggest this idea as a starting point for the mare after so much time off. That's, uh, not a good fit for either of you at this point.

Answer 4

PLEASE....Listen to Freedom Rider..you cannot get more of an honest, sincere and correct answer.

If you feel embarrased..just say that you want to see the way she goes first.  But don't you be the guinea pig. And when you do ride make sure you wear your helmet.  Also, if you do decide to ride her..if you feel uncomfortable ask if you can ride her on a lunge line.

What has she been doing there for the past three years....and not ridden..for lessons..hmmm doesn't sound right..think about it.