Yes, renting would be a definite option, and I think twice a year would likely do it - in late spring after its new growth, then right before it sets seed. The key with the thistle was to not let it go to seed and then wait for however many years it took to deplete the seeds already in the soil. With perseverence, though, we eventually won that war. Best of luck, and I do know what you mean about not taking a chance with her eating something that could be damaging. Horses can be funny that way - I once had one that regularly choked on alfalfa. Talk about an easy keeper, he thrived the best on local grass hay!
