Horses are amazing creatures - and if you have the privilege of owning one, there's no doubt that you've already formed a bond with your new friend. Caring for a horse is a lot of responsibility and it's important to understand and provide for their needs to ensure you have a fit, healthy and happy animal.
One of the most important decisions you'll make in caring for your horse is finding a boarding facility. Your horse cannot live in your backyard - no matter how large it is! Horses need to be housed in a stable, usually with other horses, as they are quite social creatures that are accustomed to living in packs when in the wild.
Visit a number of different facilities around your area. Have a look at the following at each facility and consider these questions:
How are the facilities as a whole?
Take a tour of the facilities and get an overall impression of how the animals look and how well kept and clean the place is. The paddocks should be well maintained and fenced in - check that the fencing looks strong and that there is no barbed wire. Check that the stable floors are clean and well kept and that the area is well ventilated with plenty of light.
How are the stalls?
Time to check out the rooms - the stalls should be clean and lined with fresh bedding, straw or wood shavings are most common. Horses shouldn't be standing around on a hard floor all day and they will want soft bedding to lie down on and have a rest. See that the bedding is generally clean and that there are no nails sticking out or boards missing from the walls that could potentially injure an animal.
How's the water level?
Peer into the water bucket - it should be clean to ensure the animals don't get sick. The water should also be fresh, horses need to be watered at least twice a day and every time the bucket is empty.
What's the schedule?
Inquire about the daily routine of the stables. There should be staff on hand to feed, water and clean your horse's accommodation as well as to keep them well groomed. Ask about de-worming and any specialty diets - for example, if you're keeping a performance horse or are breeding race horses for sale, may require a specialty diet.
What about your gear?
Of course, the care of your horse comes first, but it's a good idea to pay a visit to the tacking room and see how your gear will be kept and the facilities available for storage and changing.
The best way to garner the level of care a stable provides is to ask around. Make friends with other riders in your local area or visit online forums that offer horse information and a community to share your experiences and receive advice - you'll also meet plenty of passionate people who love horses as much as you do!
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Find horses for sale and information on horse care in Australia. Your horse needs plenty of love and attention, so finding the right stable is critical for a long lasting relationship between man and beast.
