City Slicker Horse Question?

Howdy! I am almost three months post-op and saw the 70 pound mark on the scale today! It feels so good, the physical changes are remarkable. I still weigh in though at 250. In August we are going down to the Bay Area to visit family. We are doing the Santa Cruz boardwalk for a night, and I think by then I will be able to fit on the famous wooden roller coaster without worrying about it. My ten year old daughter is a horse lover, and rides every Saturday. We were thinking how thrilled she would be if during our vacation we went on a trail ride. We might go through Yosemite, which has a couple of horse adventures (you can even do an overnighter - sleep under the stars). On the other hand, the tourist traffic might ruin the splendor of Yosemite. I am sure there are other horse outfits between here and San Francisco. Before this surgery, I would never even think of particiating in anything like rollercoasters or horseback riding. I always sat on the bench acting like I didn't want to go, not wanting to explain that I was too fat, or that my knees would never make it. My question for a cowboy/cowgirl out there is this. Is 250 pounds (hopefully less) an O.K. weight for some poor horse - other than, say, a Percheron? Hopefully they don't weigh you in public and call out your name and weight like they did when I was a teenager at some stable. (At the time I was a skinny girl, but it occurs to me now how that probably horrified someone).

Hi patty, I havn't been on a horse since I was "5" years old so I can't answer your question. but I am hoping to be able to go on a ride someday when I have the money.. this is something I have wanted to do for YEARS.. good luck and I hope you find an answer soon.. if not from this board maybe you could post it to the MB?? Theresa

Patty: Congratulations on your weight loss! Pam

We went riding in Sunriver last year and I rode....not a problem! And they didn't weigh me....I think they just matched the bigger horses with the bigger people. Plus, from my experience working with horses, you get to know each horse. They all have their own personality and I'm sure they know how much each horse will take. 250 is not a back-breaker for a horse, you're fine! I've know several big men who are frequent riders and even rodeo occasionally. Theses guys are easily 220-250. Of course, most of these guys are 6'3" and big but fit. Okay.....just had a lovely "moment". I need to quit thinkin' about cowboys! :blush: Go have fun......Cowgirl Up! Michele

I have been around horses all my life and weighed 250 or more and have always ridden. Haven't in the last few years but that is one of my goals and rewards. Once i get my weight down and get a job in the teaching profession I am going to buy a horse. Have a fun vacation!