Boarding Stables

Function
For those who own or lease a horse but do not have a barn at home, or perhaps don’t have the land for a horse on their own property, boarding a horse is the best solution. Boarding a horse means that the horse stays at a fully equipped stable and is cared for and sheltered for a monthly fee.

Types
There are a few variations in how an owner may board their horse. Pasture boarding is the cheapest and includes water, an outdoor shelter and pasture and/or hay, but the owner is responsible for feeding the horse grain. Partial boarding includes an individual grain feeding, fresh water and pasture or hay. Full board is more expensive and generally includes the above as well as amenities.  Some places offer additional perks, such as free wormer and farrier trims. Some boarding stables offer by-the-night prices for short stays.

Size
Usually large facilities offer more extras that are available to boarding horses, such as a larger pasture, trail riding, grooming and training. These stables may charge a greater boarding fee. Small stables that have owners living on the property may be able to deliver the most personal care for your horse, as their time will be spent between fewer horses. Most boarding stables are also training facilities and can provide an arena or round pen and sometimes trails to ride your horse on, though not all stables will have an indoor arena in addition to an outdoor arena.

Considerations
Some owners live on the property, and some do not.
It is important to consider what is best for your horse. If you live close to the boarding stables, it may benefit you to pay for partial board and come to feed and care for your horse yourself. If you live more than 20 minutes away, then full board may be best.

Benefits
Boarding can mean keeping an equine companion that an owner wouldn’t otherwise be able to have. Not only do boarding horses have the benefit of qualified people looking after them, but training is often available onsite as well. Training board is an option some stables offer if they have several trainers on staff. This includes full board plus individual time spent training your horse several times a week.