i have a really big problem and dont know what to do. i have the funniest pony, a 13.3hh gelding named Topaz who is going blind in his right eye. im not allowed to ride him and i dont know if i should sell him. at one stage i thought he might have to be put doen. please tell me what to do
2006-06-27 15:55:11 · 9 answers · asked by Prof. Horse Rider 2 in Pets ➔ Other - Pets
Well, going blind in one eye can be a huge adjustment for the horse, but the gelding we have is going blind in one eye, but he is adjusting very well, we can still show him even. He just expects us to walk on his blind side so that he knows someone is watching out for him where he can't see.
As for not being allowed to ride him and maybe needing to sell him, consider putting him up for sale/adoption as a companion horse. Be honest about the problems he has, because that will make sure he finds a good home with people that will have better expectations on how to properly care for him.
If you wanted to keep him and not ride him, well, that would be my choice, but I don't know what your financial situation would dictate. Try getting a goat or something to keep him company (if he is an only pony). The goat (or other animal) will help him feel comfortable in a herd with his fading vision. He will have someone looking out for him when you can't.
If all else fails, look up no-kill shelters for horses (they are out there). They will usually take a lot of horses that are older, infirm, or ailing and either care for them themselves, or adopt them out as companions for other horses. Try an online search for these places or talk to your local animal control officer, or a tack store or vet may know of a place.
I hope this helps, and please email me if you need any other advice. I hope all works out best for you and Topaz.
2006-06-27 16:06:02 · answer #1 · answered by knight_mare1482 1 · 2⤊ 1⤋
The famous trainer John Lyons had an Appaloosa Stallion named Bright Zip that was completely blind and he still rode him. Some friends of mine have a mule that injured one of his eyes and was unable to see out of it anymore but they still used him for packing and kiddy rides. Just because your pony is going blind in one eye doesnt mean his days are done. If he isnt in pain like from old age or injuries why would you want to put him down? I read a story one about a group of 3 adopted mustangs. There were 2 mares that were sisters and a gelding (the sone of one of the mares). Both of the mares were completely blind for some reason but still lived very happy long lives because the gelding guided them and kept them out of trouble. The mares would even run and play together in the pasture - they just always kept track of where the little gelding was.
You may need to take a little extra caution and spend more time with your little pony but he isnt finished. If he trusts you - I dont see any reason you shouldnt be able to continue using him.
2006-06-27 16:51:15 · answer #2 · answered by anda 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i have to say i know how you feel. it is not easy to make a decision like this, but the first thing you have to think of is topaz himself. how is his quality of life? is he still enjoying the normal things he alwyas enjoyed? There have been several animals- dogs, horses, etc.- that have gone completely blind yet still had a great life. if you decide you have to sell him, just be sure it is a good home. make sure the people really care about him, and always make sure you think of topaz and don't let him suffer. if he is getting sick a lot and loses a lot of weight and seems sad, depressed or really lonely, then maybe it is time to think about putting him down for his own good.
2006-06-27 16:02:36 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why aren't you allowed to ride him? Is he old or what is the problem besides going blind in one eye? I've seen people ride horses that were completely blind.
If you have to get rid of him and he is still rideable, call a humane society or SPCA in your area.
2006-06-27 16:12:12 · answer #4 · answered by Who am I? 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you can afford it, keep him as a pet. I know it's a hard choice, but i think you would have difficulty in selling him because of the eye problem.
Best wishes 2 u and Topaz
PETLOVER
2006-06-27 16:01:06 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
i dont think ppl want to buy him and she doesnt seem in such a bad condition that is necessary for her to be put down
shes only blind
well if u cant keep her then sell her but i dont think you will make a lot of money
i would keep her if i were u
2006-06-27 15:59:25 · answer #6 · answered by shorty 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First get your horse a doctor.and if their is nothing that you can do than dont kill it giive it to someone else.You want to see it alive dont you and if you love the pony like you say you do you wouldnt put the pony down.let it live.
2006-06-27 15:58:54 · answer #7 · answered by angle2980 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You definately need to get a horse doctor to see him and find out *why* the eye is going bad. If he can't be fixed and you can't keep him, then sell him.
2006-06-27 16:03:08 · answer #8 · answered by Tigger 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What we do about everything that comes-along shapes us with respect to our future decisions, so consider that ...
I'd keep him and care for him until he dies.
What do you think he (the pony) would want you to do with him?
That's your answer ...
2006-06-27 16:00:58 · answer #9 · answered by yosarian 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋