Better Homes and Gardens (Australia)
Housing your hooved friend
Thinking about buying a horse? Don’t stall on deciding where to stable your pony or filly
PLACE TO CALL HOME An urban backyard is patently unsuitable – horses need land (lots of it) that is fenced appropriately, good quality grass for grazing, shelter and somewhere to store their feed. You also need to think about who will be responsible for their care. If you can keep your pony at home, consider the time and energy you’ll spend providing the daily care needed. Options include hiring help at home, boarding your horse at an equestrian facility nearby or with friends or family who live on a farm and don’t mind having extra hooves around.
TYPES OF BOARDING Stables offer various boarding arrangements. If you can afford to pay for hassle-free, full-time care, full board includes all the necessities, including a stall plus access to pasture and staff available at your horse’s neigh. Part boarding involves sharing the use of your mare with another person in exchange for cheaper boarding costs. Alternatively, your Black Beauty can live out in a pasture all year round with feed, water and a run-in shelter provided, plus trained staff to keep an eye on them.
OTHER ARRANGEMENTS
If you live close to equestrian facilities, you may be able to care for your filly yourself should you have the time. Or, in exchange for lower rates and other benefits, how about allowing your horse to be used for riding lessons or trail rides? Whatever the boarding arrangement, remember – your horse’s health and welfare is always your responsibility.