boarding?

[TheBauhausCure]

Hey, I live in New York city, so obviously I don't live on a farm. Horses have always been my favorite animals, and I always go to new jersey to ride rando, horses at different stables. Still...Ever since I was little I really wanted one.

I was thinking of saving up some money and buying a horse to board at a nearby stable. I am wondering if horses have a different connection with an owner who they get to see every day, rather then one that comes once a week, and isnt their primary feeder.

I wouldn't want my relationship with a future pet cut because of lack of land.

[DomBee8]

It really depends on the horse it's self and the kind of relationship you want to form. If your only objective is riding, then your not going to have a good, strong bond. If you do a lot of ground work and bonding-type activities, your bond will be a lot stronger. There are also natural horsemanship techniques that you can use to improve the bond between you and your horse. I use Parelli, and it has worked wonders for my horse and I. It's not for everyone, though. If you don't know what it is or don't have an opinion, I suggest looking into it. I think that if you care enough for your horse, you will form a good bond. Of course, the horse has to put some effort into it too. My friend has a mare who doesn't give a hoot about her. In fact, she doesn't really care about any human... or any horse for that matter. My friend has tried all sorts of things, including Parelli, and her horse will go though the motions and do what she asks, but she only sees it as a job that she is performing for her owner. Some horses are like that, and just don't care to make bonds.

You said you would only be visiting the barn once a week- I don't know whether that was intentional or just a metaphor, but if you are only going to be able to see the horse 1 or 2 times a week it's probably best that you not get a horse. Stick with lessons or try leasing a horse. A horse needs a regular amount of exercise to keep in shape and keep from getting bored- if you can't provide that, then it's not fair to the horse. In fact, if might be best for you just to start out leaseing. That what I, and many other horse owners I know started by doing. It will give you a sense of independence and responsability, without giving you full responsability or tieing you down. It's a good way for interested horse owners to test the water.

[TheBauhausCure]

It was just a metaphor, but I agree with you.

I guess I will just have to wait untill quite a few years from now.