(photo taken from horseshoelodgewaxhaw.com)

Finding a good horse boarding facility for your equine friend is a worth-while investment of your time. After all, you will be entrusting the care of your horse to these people! Here's some tips on how to find a good horse boarding facility.

1. The best place to start when searching for a boarding facility is to check the internet, phone book, etc... compile a list of places to go look at. Don't be afraid to look at a lot! You'll be much happier keeping your horse at a boarding facility that has the majority of what you want. So don't feel like you're obligated to stay at the first nice place you visit.

2. When you go to visit the places on your list, here are some things you can look for:

*Are the paddocks and stalls clean? If not, is there any evidence that someone will get to them that day?

*Are the water tanks clean?

*Is the fencing sturdy and in good repair?

*Do the horses have enough room?

*Do the horses look happy and healthy?

*Is the barn clean?

*Is there anything on the property that could be a health hazard?

*Does it look like horse and people safety is a priority?

If you've answered no to the majority of these questions, it would be a good idea to look somewhere else. If you've answered yes to the majority, looks like you may have found a good potential. You can also ask the other boarders and get a feel for what they think of the place and the community. Don't be afraid to be picky!

(photo taken from mountainhousestables.com) 

3. Even if you won't be taking lessons or working with the on-site trainer, it's still a good idea to get acquainted with them in case you ever need help or there's a situation where they will need to handle your horse. Make sure they are people you can trust and respect and that you agree with their training philosophy, methods and don't have any problems with them dealing with your horse should a problem arise. It would be very stressful if you were always worried about what if the on-site trainers had to deal with your horse!

4. There will always be a little drama at a boarding facility, but there are barns out there that try to minimize the drama. Before you commit to having your horse there (or you could board your horse on a trail basis) try to be at the barn as much as possible to get a feel of the place. Maybe take a few lessons, volunteer, go to some of the barn events. Get to know the other boarders, the helpers, the owners, the community. See if it would be a good fit. You don't have to become best friends with the barn, but you do want to have good relations.

Horse boarding also gives you the chance to connect with other horse people. It can be a great experience and be full of opportunities if you find the right fit for you and your horse. So it's very worthwhile to take the time to find the right place.

(photo taken from texastrailrides.com)

"A pony is a childhood dream, a horse is an adulthood treasure." -- Rebecca Carrol

~ Saddle Up