Making The Right Choice - Gus

As owners we make so many choices on behalf of our big lumbering animals that they don't really get to have a say on.  Where they live, what they eat, who they hang out with, what they do all day, what they wear and when, who else gets to work with them. 

Gus, in situ

Basically our horses are screwed if we're morons, selfish, or just incapable of making good decisions.  At least our spouses, friends and bosses can fire us if we're too obnoxious - but not our sweet ponies! they are stuck with our thoughts and decisions and bless them for their patience.

This responsibility is exactly what wakes me up at night every once in a while wondering if I should try a different treatment, supplement regimen or even discipline in order to be fair to my horses, but nowhere does this guilty conscious shout louder than when I'm looking for a new home for one of my horses. 

Admittedly I haven't sent that many horses down the road - and I've sent even fewer to homes and/or owners that I haven't had a 10+ year relationship with (really just 2).

So, there was a bit of trepidation when Gus loaded on the trailer last winter bound for a new home, in a new state with new people. 

But every time I hear from his new mom about how he's doing and what he's up to, I get that huge, massive sigh of relief that only comes when you know that your beloved pony found a home better than you could give him yourself. 

Gus. Is. Great.

He's also living the life most horses only dream of.  Huge green pastures, a nice turnout buddy, and most importantly a little girl to adore him. 

I should note all of these photos are from the farm his new family just moved to, I've been choking down my jealousy ever since they landed in my inbox. 

want want want

 

Gus Heaven

Gus House :)

 

I mean, I'm tempted to move out there myself.

But I can assure you, there are no 2am musings over whether or not I did right by Gus. 

Gus. Is. Great.