The waiting list, 2

Harv, July 6 2013

So Bob and I toured the retired horse sanctuary on July 4 (for background see the Waiting list 1 blog post). We spent about an hour or so meeting the staff, walked around the property, and asking questions. We concluded our visit with the promise that we would call in a few days with our decision.

As we drove away from the farm, neither of us said anything right away. As we passed the herd of retired horses grazing near the road, I said tentatively, "Wow, what great people." Bob's first sentence: "If only it were ten minutes away."  Bob had hit the nail on the head. The sanctuary is an hour drive on rural roads. I'd be visiting on weekends only -- and Harv would no longer be mine.

 If I grouse about the time it takes to visit and "putz around" with Harv, I get deep enjoyment out of seeing him and caring for him. He's like a polite old man, so appreciative of the visit and such a gentleman. And he is  a hoot to interact with--expressive and sensitive, and easy to read -- it's like interacting with a person. The thought of seeing him just once a week...well, I just can't see it.

And relinquishing ownership? If I were going to do this, this organization would be the one.

But I just can't.

I do feel just a tidge of guilt, knowing that this place is *designed* for the older horse and tons of grassy pasture. I know I'm making the selfish decision. Harv is at a boarding barn now, and he does not have the extended turnout the retirement farm offers or the endless grazing. He does have overnight turnout this summer, and daytime turnout in winter.

If Harv seemed unhappy in his current situation, I might take another look. But he is thriving where he is, all fat and sleek and enjoying a big stall with a cross breeze and a panoramic view. The staff seem fond of him and treat him with care. He is turned out with two saddlebreds. They are so chummy they move together like a school of fish! You'd think they were tied together with rope, and they even drink out of their water bucket all at once. I can't believe their heads all fit in there.

I like having him close to me, and ultimately he needs to stay my responsibility. And, bottom line, I don't know how long I have with him. I don't want to squander our time.