Sometimes, we have to face letting go of a particular horse. Whether he's your teaching horse going to another riding club or a pony you grew up with is moving to another young child, there's always a positive. If you follow these five tips for letting go of a special horse, you're sure to see it.
1. Don't put too much pressure on yourself.
On those final rides, when you put down a special horse, it's easy to wallow in the pressure of perfection. You and your horse have nailed so many canter transitions, outside lines, and even your first big vertical. You fly through the air, you get compliments from your instructor together, and you want to make sure you recreate those moments on your final ride.
However, all that stress can quickly bring down your ride because you're stressed to do everything 100% perfectly. Your horse has already shown you that you are becoming a great rider, so instead, focus on the smaller special moments.
Ask your instructor if you can ride easily around the farm. Pick up some special shampoos from your local tack shop and spend an afternoon treating your horse to a full spa day. Enjoy the last moments together with a smile instead of stress.
2. Small souvenirs are important.
Don't feel silly and ask your farrier to keep your horseshoes after you buy new shoes, or cut off his tail locks to weave into bracelets. These little keepsakes are a constant reminder of your special horse that you can hang on your bedroom wall or wear on your wrist every day.
Sometimes, being able to take a little horse with you will help put a smile on your face if you're feeling sad in the days to come.
3. Take a picture.
This can be one of the funniest ways to commemorate the end of your time with your horse. Ask one of your barn mates if they can take a photo of you and your horse.
Plan a fun sleepover with your friends and check out different (and safe!) pose ideas. Don't forget to pick a cute outfit to wear. A night of giggling with your best barn mate helps make you forget how sad you might be, and the photos you take together will last a lifetime. You can even create a special scrapbook or photo album with pictures.
4. Share your special story.
Ask your trainer if you can write a letter to the new owner of your favorite horse. You can jot down everything from how he helped you bring home your first blue ribbon to his favorite scratch spot.
Often, new owners love to hear how great their horse is, and this will create a bond between you and the new owner, sharing a mutual love for this remarkable horse.
5. All horses are special.
Remember, you may have to let go of a special horse, but this creates an opportunity to welcome a new horse into your heart.
There is still a horse in the barn waiting to be loved by you. He will also give lessons. Maybe you can tackle your first lead change together, or jump off your first jump without stirrups.
Every horse we encounter in life can teach us something if we allow it. So while the next few weeks may be sad after your difficult goodbye, there is a bright light ahead as a new horse enters your life - not to take the old horse's place, but to Helping you continue on your path to becoming an amazing young rider.
