Long lost horse comes home(but what should i do know)

[jackobean]

I have just brought home my Section d mar that i owned 4years ago i thought it would be best to sell her and let someone else have some fun.

I had her when she was 41/2 and had her for 4 years had many falls, tears etc, but loved her to bits she was not nasty just green.

I was contacted by a lady who brought her for her daughter and her daughter unfortunatley did not want a mare, and turned her nose up at her, so i was so happy to here about her and wished i had never sold her that i went and picked her up yesterday (300 mile jounrney) and brought her home.

But..........

I dont know what has happned to her in the last 4years and i am not sure how to go about riding here (she is still green as ever and very sensitive but kind and trusting) I think i should take her to a professional and let them be the first to get back on.

Any advice anyone.

[Stella2]

Was a lovely opportunity. You must really like this mare to buy her back like this. You say that she is a nice mare, just green. She will remember you since 4 1/2 years is a long time and they have good memories and you and she (even though she is still green) have gained years more experience now, so thats a great beginning for your second chance together :)

I would find a good freelance instructor who will come out to you and help you to move forward with her. You may be happier to see them ride her first, but before you get to that stage, it would be good for both of you to do some ground work and then some lunging. This will help you to see how she goes, how spooky (or not she is) and generally get used to each other.

I wish you the best with this, its a great project. Let us know how its going :)

[jackobean]

Yes i will let her settle for some time and also write to her previous owners to see what she was doing but at the end of the day if she is worse than she was before, i will never sell her again.

[ANN H]

What a lovely opportunity for you to start again with her. I'd definitely get a good freelance instructor as other people have said and start learning together. I had a very green Section D, I've now had her for four years, and although her schooling leaves a lot to be desired (my fault), we've bonded beautifully and she's turning into my ideal horse. Good luck.

[teabiscuit]

how lovely that you have her back with you

i'd start by getting to know her all over again

[*Sez*]

How brilliant for you :D

Personally, I would start with ground work for a couple of days - long rein her, walk her around, get her backing up on command. Get an instructor to come out and see you and, if you like have them ride first of all. I'd definately advise that you move forward with the help of a professional. But you need to start getting to know her all over again and make sure she has ample time to settle in.
Good luck! :D