My daughter is our 4th generation in horses. I had hoped for a 5th. However, that will probably not be. With the economy as it is, my daughter no longer breeds. We always bred sparingly, but with the price of everything in California, she can no longer afford the number of horses she had previously. She has sold all her Gypsies except one, who is 9 and never been bred. She still has the two Minis. The Mini mare will be placed and she will probably keep the gelding for driving. I bred and showed dogs and horses, almost all my life. Last week we put to sleep, the last dog from the last litter I ever bred. He would have been 17 in October. While both my granddaughters ride, I doubt they will have horses when they grow up. It's incredibly sad to think about.
One thing I will mention though, is that if you have animals of any kind, always talk to some trusted family member or friend who understand animals, about what will happen to them should you die suddenly. Choose a knowledgeable person. Put it in your will and make sure all know who will be in charge of the livestock, upon your death. Things happen. Sometimes people do die unexpectedly and family members who know no better or not wish for the responsibility of animals, dump horses in auctions and dogs and cats in the pound. Even if you are young, always make secure arrangements for your animals, in case something happens to you.
Lizzie
