Horse Boarding: Types, Expenses, and Key Considerations
Horse Boarding
When considering the acquisition of a horse, or the move of a beloved equine family member, one crucial aspect is determining where the horse will be kept. The decision to keep the horse at home or board it elsewhere often hinges on the availability of suitable property. If you lack a barn and pasture, exploring boarding options becomes essential. However, even if you have the necessary facilities, there are advantages to boarding your horse, along with various options to consider. This guide covers essential information about horse boarding, encompassing benefits, types of boarding, and associated costs.
Advantages of Boarding Your Horse
While keeping a horse at home may seem like the default choice, there are compelling reasons to consider boarding, even if you have suitable property:
New horse owners can learn proper care in a safe environment with professional guidance.
Owners can focus on building a relationship with the horse without the daily care responsibilities.
Experienced professionals handle the horse's care.
Opportunities to meet and connect with other horse owners.
No need to plan for horse care during travel.
Social interaction provided for the horse.
Routine follow-up care for sick or injured horses.
Liability insurance covered by the boarding facility.
Reduced upfront and ongoing costs for tools, equipment, and facility maintenance.
Convenient access to trainers and instructors.
Some boarding facilities offer transportation services for horse competitions.
Types of Horse Boarding
Before deciding on horse boarding, it's essential to understand the different types, each offering distinct services. Carefully review the boarding contract to grasp the services provided, associated costs, and any optional extras.
Full Board:
Comprehensive care, including stall, turnout, feeding, and daily necessities.
Professional staff handle care, farrier, and vet appointments.
Potential for additional services like specialized feeds, supplements, and lessons.
Leases and Partial Boarding:
Lease Boarding:
Sharing the horse with someone else to offset boarding costs.
Arrangements may involve the farm using the horse for lessons.
Partial Board:
Boarding at the facility while contributing some work to reduce costs.
Responsibilities may include blanketing, stall cleaning, and attending vet/farrier appointments.
Self-Care Boarding:
Facility provided, but the owner handles all care.
Owners responsible for feed, bedding, daily care, and coordinating vet/farrier services.
Suitable for those living close to the stable with time for daily care.
Pasture Boarding:
Horses live outdoors with feed and water, often in a group.
May include a run-in shelter for shelter from weather.
Less individual attention but suitable for horses averse to stabling.
Choosing the Right Boarding Option
Before boarding a horse, assess your needs, availability, costs, and location. Consider the various boarding options available and choose what aligns best with your and your horse's requirements. Ensure confidence in the facility and staff, and review the contract thoroughly. Consider factors such as competition support, discipline-specific training, and flexibility in the contract. Ultimately, selecting the right facility will enhance your overall horse ownership experience.