dcrivers

We've decided to keep our new horse at a stable. What are some of the important things we should look for, ask about and consider when we are choosing one. I know we want one where the stalls and horses appear clean and healthy, the people should be friendly and knowledgeable, but I'm sure there's more to it than that.


What do we not want?

UmYes?

Here, I did a little research and found a good site that will help you decide on what to and not to look for in a good stable.

http://www.equusite.com/articles/bas...gStables.shtml
-UmYes?

Gizmo

When I picked the stable for my daughters horse we spend some time looking at the local ones. After inspecting them and talking to some of the horse owners using them, and with the personnel working there we quickly found two we liked, and the rest we didnt even consider.

You will quickly find out the professionalism and the running state of the place by spending some time there.

QuarterHorses

One thing I would advise when getting into a new stable, don't sign a lease that doesn't have an escape clause. I had a horse get sick and had to be moved to a new facility that could handle her. The old stable owner was trying to keep me in the lease and it wasn't pretty. There was many heated discussions between the stable owner and me.

dcrivers

I guess finding a good stable is similar to finding a good day care for your child. Check all your options, ask as many questions as possible and make sure to look and listen between the lines. But in the end it comes down to trusting your instincts and keeping close watch till you're confident you made the best choice.

mark

I will have to keep my horse in a stable for awhile. So I can learn what I need to know about taking care of him/her. I looked at that site you gave, UmYes. It has some good things. I will go back and read it some more.

cherokeemyluv

Definitely look at ALL the horses/animals kept there. Whether they are expensive show horses or lesson ponies they should all be well taken care of and well groomed and healthy. Talk to other boarders. If the owner doesn't want you doing that, don't board there. Unless they have something to hide or its an extra-snobby stable you should be free to approach another boarder. Inspect the structures and riding areas. The fences should be in good repair and replaced when they need to be. Remember barbed wire is for cattle not horses. Horses can sustain life-long injuries that can render them unusable for riding if they get caught in barbed wire. Is the riding ring nice and level without rocks? Do they have equipment to drag it and is it done regularly? If they have jumps are they in good repair like the fences? Are there an adequate number of pastures/turnouts for the number of horses boarded? Does the stable have "hours of operation" or can you drop by to administer medication if you need to at midnight? Or would the owner do so for you? Definitely read and re-read the lease and make sure its fair to both you and the owner. Do a google search for boarding contracts to get an idea of what they look like and what you might want added. And if you have any questions make sure they are answered before you board, no matter how stupid they may sound. And trust your gut. If something feel wrong, keep looking.