Walking away from loan...

[WombatStewForTea]

I've had horses for years but due to work I've not got the time to have my own.
Through a friend of a friend I've been part loaning the sweetest mare a couple of days a week for six months. Teenage daughter and her none-horsey parents.

I know she's not my horse and I've got no say in how she's kept - but have given advice when asked and also when not and it's fine if they don't listen.

But now, this poor sweet mare's welfare is being compromised. Owners won't accept there's a problem. Vets been out but owners are choosing not to treat and to "see how she goes". She's becoming more and more obviously lame, yet they don't see a problem. Not even beginning to mention she hasn't seen a farrier in what is now 5 months

I'm going to have to walk away as I can't stand back and watch it happen. I worry about the horse but what else can I do? Am I doing the right thing?

Walk away, but report to the RSPCA telling them what you know (i.e. not seen farrier etc.) It sounds like maybe they aren't aware of how to look after her.

Is the horse kept on a yard? If so I'd be flagging it up to the yard owner.

Yes it it. Part of the problem is they've moved from assisted livery where the YO organised everything and told them what to do, to a purely DIY yard with elderly YOs who aren't interested/don't want the hassle and would probably just kick them off.

Had some progress today - I said my bit as did another livery. Owner explained their reluctance to treat (medicating hocks) and while I don't agree with her choice not to do it right now, she's recognised things aren't going to get better and she's calling the vet tomorrow to start some long term bute and will medicate if this doesn't work

Not even beginning to mention she hasn't seen a farrier in what is now 5 months

Is she shod or not? Not that I would expect any shoes to miraculously stay on 5 months!

I know it's hard, but I would try to say more for the sake of the horse. Since you are prepared to walk away, it doesn't matter so much if you fall out. Can you make positive suggestions which may also help. Devil's claw may be a good first port of call before bute. Getting a farrier might well alleviate any lameness. A good physio can work wonders and is generally cheaper than a vet - though obviously they need to be working together!

I just think positive suggestions that don't break the bank would be a good way to start.