I am wondering about this. My brother in law wants to buy his daughter a horse for a birthday present. The problem is that it would be boarded at my house. Not too much of a problem as I already have a horse but a problem as he won't contribute to take care of the horse. I don't want to say no but I don't know what to do.

I would have no problem saying no. Its not just the financial burden but the fact that him and his daughter know nothing of horse care-are they willing to learn or come over every day to care for it?

Honestly, you are being asked to house an animal for another family. You wouldn't think it ok if someone asked you to house a dog for their kid to come visit and call their own would you?

Think of it this way. Board costs $200-500 a month per horse depending on the level of care and what the owner is willing to do or contribute. Even if you buy your own feed/bedding and muck up yourself its still gonna be a couple hundred a month. Explain this to him. Make him sign a contract detailing what he will and will not be doing and what his financial responsibilities are. He may not like it, but he doesn't have to keep his horse at your house either. Family does not mean he can walk all over you. Boundaries are needed to keep you from spending your own money for his horse.

Alright I have slept on it, adn read your very great comments. I think that now is not the time for a horse. She can come over and ride my horse as much as she wants but I do not want the extra work of a second horse. I think it would be wise to say no for now.