For the past 5 months I have been half leasing a 17 year old mustang named Renny. Last week, I learned he was diagnosed with bad arthritis in his knee and probably won't ever be able to jump again.

Unfortunately, my barn doesn't have another horse I can lease for the forseeable future so I have been looking for a solution that will allow me to continue to ride.

I have thought about switching barns, but I really enjoy riding where I am currently situated. I have also thought about doing a care lease, but it looks like it would cost just as much as owning a horse.

So, what if I did buy my own horse?

If I adopted a horse he would be ridden 4-5 times a week. 3-4 times by me, and once by my trainer. He would be put in turnout 1-2 times a week to get his energy out on the days I can't come out to ride.

I did some math and it looks like I could afford a horse with my current job and if I work summers.

This led me to the idea of adopting a wild mustang through the TIP (trainer incentive program).

According to the mustang heritage website, a mustang is considered gentle if they can be haltered, lead, allow all four feet to be picked up, and willingly load out of a trailer.

If I were to adopt a mustang I would also want them to be started under the saddle, accepting of the bit/bridle, and accepting of being hosed off to be bathed.

Although this goes beyond the gentling process, you can discuss additional training and fees with your TIP trainer once the animal has been adopted.

Do you have experience with the TIP program? Do you own a mustang? If so, what was the training process like? I would love to hear from all you mustang owners about your exeriences!