Day Eleven- More improvements

Blue had another big day on Friday complete with a pedicure and a new space to get used to. Barry worked on his feet for some time, and while Blue wasn't a huge fan of the process, we got the job done and made a huge improvement on his badly overgrown toes. It was the final upgrade, besides continuing to put on weight, that Blue needed to look his best and it definitely made a difference to the overall appearance. Thursday was Blue's last day of quarantine so when his feet were done on Friday, we turned him out by himself into a large new paddock to begin the process of integrating him in with the rest of our horses. Blue didn't run or carry on....didn't act silly or get himself worked up....he simply just explored. He walked from corner to corner to see just how big his new digs really were and proceeded to check out the square footage thoroughly for some time. I imagine it's been awhile since he's had that kind of space and he wasn't going to miss a thing....

 

 

 

 

After Blue had spent some time alone in his new space, we added Lena to the mix. Lena is a six year old quarter horse mare who belongs to Barry and is a member of the herd of which Blue will eventually become a member. She is the least assertive of the three so we thought she would likely be the best choice to introduce to Blue first....we were right. After ignoring each other for some time (Lena looking for her friends and Blue exploring), they buddied up and became close quite quickly. There was no aggression and both horses seemed pleased to have a new friend, travelling around the big field and eating together. They spent the rest of the day in this fashion and will continue as a duo until we think it's time to add another member of the herd.

 

 

 

Blue & Lena

 

 

Though Blue never showed any signs of being lonely or wanting to be with the other horses, it was really nice to see him with a companion and to have so much space to roam around in. Horses are meant to be with other horses and Blue settled into his role in the partnership very easily. He stays outside over night now but is always eager to greet me in the morning and definitely never forgets about breakfast! He has found the happy balance between “free” and “pampered” and seems to enjoy his lifestyle just fine!

Another big weekend ahead for Blue....stay tuned for new developments....