We each have our own way of describing what home means to us. Home is a place of safety, security, and comfort. It’s a place where you feel your best. Though our horses cannot describe it to us, their home is important to them too and much for the same reasons.
Where your horse resides is considered his home. Every area from where he sleeps, to where he eats, to where he runs is part of his everyday life.
By thinking of a horse’s location as his home, it allows us owners to successfully decide the best place for our equines to live. And that decision can be a complicated one. There are a few things that every horse owner should consider when they are looking for the
perfect place to board their equines.
First, think about the location. It makes no sense to board your horse far away where your access to him is limited and the commute is time consuming. Board close enough for consistent trips and sudden, emergency visits.
Second, consider the price range. Boarding a horse can be expensive, depending on the level of care that is given. The price of only housing a horse will be different from having your horse fed and his stall cleaned out.
Third, make sure to look for a boarding place that fits with your discipline. If you enjoy trail riding, or western pleasure, it can be very beneficial to find a barn that specializes in these specific types of riding. By finding a barn with a riding focus, you will encounter people that enjoy the same discipline, allowing for a much better connection socially and a better chance of finding a place to board long term.
Fourth, look at every single part of the property. This could be your horse’s new digs, so you’ll want to know how many horses and owners board there, how many pastures and arenas are offered, if you’ll have room to park a trailer or keep your tack on property, etc. Check off what you will have and make notes of what you won’t.
Fifth, get to know the other boarders and their horses. Sometimes we jive with people, and sometimes we just don’t. It’s part of being human. If you don’t think the atmosphere or the people at a particular barn mesh well with you and your equine, find another place to board. Sixth, you should be honest and up front with the owner and share your expectations. If you can’t be open with what you’re looking for, you’ll never find the perfect fit for the two of you. This is especially important when you sign a boarding contract (and don’t commit without one).
Finally, don’t sacrifice on things you’d like or need just to make the search take less time. If you want a place with day and night care, find one. If you need more than one arena or access to grazing, look for a place that has them. By sticking to what you and your horse need, you’ll be much more likely to find that perfect equine home.
Call the Terri Gamboa Team today for help finding a horse property! 702.528.5473
