Madeleine Loibl: How her horse Sam became the joy of life!
Madeleine Loibl from Grafenau is fulfilling her lifelong dream with her horse Sam - an enriching hobby for body and soul.

Madeleine Loibl: How her horse Sam became the joy of life!
For Madeleine Loibl from Grafenau, a long-cherished dream became reality: a few years ago she got her own horse, and her heart belongs entirely to a special Haflinger named Sam. Her love of riding and majestic animals has accompanied her since she was a child. When Sam came up for sale, she didn't hesitate for a second and decided to buy him. “I don’t regret this decision,” she says with a beaming smile. For her, Sam is not just a horse, but also a source of joy and relaxation after a stressful day.
However, the care and hobby surrounding the horse is not a walk in the park. According to Tierschutzbund, a horse needs several hours of attention every day. Madeleine also spends several hours with her 20-year-old gelding several times a week. Your activities range from horseback riding to training sessions on the riding arena. “It's very rewarding,” she notes as she speaks fondly of the many hours she spends with Sam.
Responsibility for a horse
Horses are not “sports equipment”, but living beings with special needs. They need species-appropriate food, regular exercise opportunities and contact with other horses. Herd animals like Sam in particular have a strong need to be close to members of their own species. Solitary confinement can lead to enormous suffering. Therefore, the species-appropriate keeping of horses in Germany, as can be found in the Tierschutzbund, is fundamentally important. Animal-friendly care also includes daily fur and hoof care as well as stable cleaning.
The financial aspects of horse ownership should also not be underestimated. Costs for accommodation, food, medical treatment and the blacksmith can quickly amount to four figures per month. These financial burdens coupled with the time commitment make the decision to keep a horse not an easy one. Nevertheless, for Madeleine it is the best thing that has ever happened to her. “It’s an obligation, but also a huge joy,” she says, summing up her experience.
For anyone thinking about getting a horse, it is important to be well informed and prepared. The moments of happiness that can be combined with a loyal companion like Sam with your help are priceless.