Hi..Sorry about the problems..I am sure it was hard since you bonded with the horse there..
Try finding an older couple or older person who does leasing..I think the older horse people are more into it for the love of the horses and not the $$$$$ etc...No offense to younger leasing people..I think older people enjoy haveing someone around. They cant be as active and maybe cant even ride anymore but they enjoy seeing someone out there rideing and enjoying the horses. Look on the net for horse barns..horse lessons etc..in your area then stop by unannounced..I know it is a little rude..but that way you can see how the people act..if they are nice and happy to talk to you on a spur of the moment then they are prob. pretty nice all around people.
Good luck
Gin