Walking On Volume 4, Issue 5, May 2017 | Page 12

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In It For The Long Haul : What You Need To Know When Boarding Your Horse Overnight

By Jess Marie
Whether attending a show , competition , going on vacation or moving , stress levels rise even for a mild tempered horse . Planning and prep work is helpful for the well-being of both you and your horse . In most US states and across Canada there are overnight horse stables also called horse motels . Some of them offer overnight accommodations not only for horses but for humans as well . If there are no human accommodations , you can usually find a nearby motel or hotel .
When searching for a horse stable / motel , the main thing you want is for your horse to be safe and feel comfortable . Here are some key details to look for :
Which Stable / Motel is Right for Your Horse ?
If you have never boarded your horse overnight or are going to a state that you have never visited , you might feel like you are flying blind . Most stable owners have a website or Facebook page . You can start there . Then to get a better feel for the stable owners , call and talk to them about their experience and their business . They should be true horse lovers who know how to properly care for horses . You might ask if they live on the property and if the property is gated and secure . You can also ask for references , or there may be some on their website , to give you a better idea of how highly previous patrons rate the stable / motel . You want to be able to rest easy knowing your horse feels comfortable and will be well 12 • Walking On taken care of for the night .
Amenities Your horse needs a clean , spacious stall approximately 12 ’ x 12 ’ or larger with fresh shavings or mats and access to fresh water at all times . A large pasture with multiple acres for exercise is a must-have . In the stall , lights can help your horse be less spooked and a ceiling fan will add comfort in hot summer months . Some stable / motels may have extra amenities like a wash rack with hot and cold water , a tack bay , paddocks and an arena . Turnouts let your horse stretch and get some exercise . In addition , ask about the type of pasture fencing that is used .
Estimated Costs and Choices for Horse Boarding
Usually you will be able to choose where you want your horse to stay - a pasture , paddock or stall . Costs for a box stall run $ 20- $ 25 per night , paddocks with grass are around $ 15- $ 20 per night while pasture boarding runs about $ 10- $ 12 per day . Make sure you have proof of a negative Coggins test because most if not all stable / motels will require this . A box stall is preferable for the comfort and safety of your horse in an unfamiliar place . However , if your horse enjoys a pasture with a couple other horses for company , and the weather is cooperating , by all means , go ahead and board him in the pasture . Additional fees will be charged for feed and supplements but it is better for your horse if you bring your own hay . If your horse needs blanketing or minor medical care that will incur additional costs as well - $ 5 for blanketing and $ 20 per hour of care .
Helping Your Horse Settle In
Be sure to arrive before dark so your horse has time to get familiar with his new surroundings . It will help put him and you , at ease . Always bring your own hay . While some stable / motels have hay for sale , your horse will be less likely to colic if given the hay he is used to eating . Colic is nothing to take lightly . It is very serious and is one of the leading causes of death in horses so make sure you have enough hay for the entire trip . After you arrive , see if you or one of the stable employees can walk your horse around a bit to help him stretch his legs , calm his nerves and get a restful night ’ s sleep .
Planning ahead and applying your understanding of your horse ’ s behavior is the first step in successful travels and horse boarding . Making use of all equine resources available and developing relationships with reputable transporters and stable owners is another necessity . Follow these simple steps and you will find that your trails will be happier ones ! Jess Marie is an author of various articles about horse transportation , used horse trailers and equine health .
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