This is a huge decision and I’m struggling with it.
I went for a tour of a natural horsemanship barn today, partly out of curiosity, and partly because something has been missing at my current barn.
Sometimes, it can feel a bit distancing to be the only person studying Parelli, or natural horsemanship in general. And, lately it’s begun to bother me that I have no one to talk to — whether it’s about Xena’s latest achievement, a new skill I’m having trouble with, or just rehashing what Xena and I worked on today.
Everyone needs that sense of belonging, but is it selfish to move Xena away from a barn she’s known for over 5 years? How will she handle trailering, strangers, and a new herd? Will it be too much for her? Do I have the skills to help her adapt? Will it all be a huge mistake?
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I’ve Decided – We’re Moving
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Something people say about horses is that they are always saying G’bye. While it is important to consider your horses needs, don’t forget that your attitude and comfort affects theirs as well. Will, in the very long run, moving to this new barn provide you with more enjoyment, a better attitude, more creativity, or just more stuff to do with her?
I guess my point is to consider all of what is best for her, not just the immediate concern. I don’t know her so only you can judge how bad it may be, or maybe she’ll surprise you and take to it well. I do know that having not ever tried is one of the worst things in the world, right? :)
Good luck in your decision.
Peter, thanks so much for the encouragement! In the end, I came to the same conclusion — that Xena’s happiness was closely tied to mine. And, that she was probably more adaptable than I was giving her credit for. :) We moved to our new barn on June 6th and everything went very smoothly. She’s now settling in with her new herd and I think she’s quite happy in the smaller environment.