Housing a horse can be a daunting task when considering the animal’s needs, but knowing what to look for in a boarding stable can make the job much easier.
Among the things to do to get started is to make a list of your needs and the needs of your horse. List any special needs of your animal, including health needs. Know your feeding schedule and amounts and types of foods you offer your animal. Ensure that you know what care and grooming you will be able to do and what you will require of your boarding facility. Check to see if your stable allows customers to use their own veterinarians and farriers or if they will call their own first when problems arise. Be precise when making this list as this is the first step in making your horse comfortable and happy.
Then you will need to compile a list of possible stables from the recommendations of veterinarians, farriers, other horse owners and tack/feed stores. Check references, accommodations available, services, procedures and the condition of the facilities.
When you visit the facilities on your list, expect the staff to be friendly and answer your questions and address your list of needs. Are they educated in equine/husbandry/farrier practices? You will be looking for people who want your business and satisfaction. If the staff is unwilling to discuss your questions and concerns with you it is safe to assume that this is the norm for them. If this is not pleasing to you, consider ending your interview and continuing with the next boarding stable on your list.
You will also want to check for cleanliness. Yes, there is a lot of dirt in and around stables, but are the conditions sanitary based on the needs of livestock? Are stalls mucked regularly by the staff or the customers who board there? It is important to check on the disposal of waste. Look for an abundance of insects. Too many insects can mean that cleanliness is not always paramount to a facility. Unsanitary conditions can lead to the spread of certain illnesses.
When touring a boarding facility, check any and all buildings. Make sure that the structures are sturdy and provide ample room for each animal, including headroom. Taller horses may have problems with low ceilings and beams. Look for nails and large splinters in the wood. These can be sources of nasty injuries to your horse. Ensure that there is evidence that maintenance is executed regularly on the buildings.
These are some of the basics when shopping boarding stables. You will also want to look into the different type of stabling services provided, from simple pasturing to private stalls and turn-outs. Check to see if the staff is available for any and all care of your animal or if you will be entirely responsible for your horse’s physical well-being. Being knowledgeable and having a sound game-plan will help you know what to look for in a boarding stable.
