Choosing the right horse boarding services for your equine companion can be a daunting task. With so many horse boarding facilities available, it can be difficult to narrow down which one offers the perfect mix of safety, amenities, and care for your horse. Keep reading for tips to help you select the best horse boarding facility for your needs.
Do Your Research
When searching for a horse boarding facility, it is important to do your research. Look at the facility’s website and read reviews from customers to get a better understanding of their services. The website should offer information on their staff, stall options, turnout, and amenities. Reviews are an especially helpful way to get an honest opinion on a facility’s services and how they treat the horses in their care.
Visit the Facility
Once you find a facility that interests you, schedule a visit. A visit helps you see the environment in person and determine if it is suitable for your horse. Make sure to observe how the staff interacts with their current boarders and ask any questions you may have about their policies or procedures. Pay special attention to the turnout areas and fencing, as well as the quality of the pastures and hay fed to the horses. Also, ask about the security measures taken at the facility; you want to be sure that your horse will remain safe while in their care.
Consider Your Horse’s Needs
Your horse’s individual needs should also be taken into account when selecting a boarding facility. If you have an older horse, look for a facility that offers extra care such as individual turnouts or specialized medical attention for elderly horses. If you have a young horse, look for a facility that offers daily handling and grooming sessions so your horse can learn proper ground manners.
Ask About Feeding Practices
In addition to considering your horse’s individual needs, you should also inquire about their standard feeding practices. How often are the horses fed? What type of hay and grain do they feed? Are blankets used during colder months? These are all important questions that you should get answers to before selecting a boarding facility for your horse.
Check Cost and Payment Options
When evaluating prospective horse boarding facilities, make sure to compare costs and payment options. Some facilities require multiple payments throughout the year or require annual payments in advance. Make sure you understand what each facility’s payment policies are before making a decision. Additionally, make sure that there are no hidden fees that could add up over time.
Consider Your Needs too
It is important to remember that selecting a horse boarding facility is not just about what’s best for your horse; it’s also about what works best for you as well. Make sure that any facility you select is convenient enough that you can visit your horse often and attend shows or other activities with them. Additionally, find out if there are any restrictions on visiting hours so you can plan accordingly if needed.
Selecting the right horse boarding services for your equine companion may seem challenging at first but with these tips in mind, you can be confident in making an informed decision that is best for both you and your horse. Be sure to research potential facilities thoroughly before making any commitments and always keep in mind what will work best for both of you.