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There are a few different options when deciding on what type horse boarding stables is best for your horse or pony. Of course, if you already live in a rural area and have the facilities, you can just keep your horse at home on your property. However, most people don't have this luxury and need to find arrangements elsewhere. Some good places to look may be your local stables, who typically have the most amenities included in the boarding price. You can also find plenty of good horse boarding stables through private owners who have extra stalls and rent out the additional space.
Pasture Board - If money is tight pasture board may be a good option. In this scenario, your horse stays outside all year and supplied with feed and water. You may think a horse staying outdoors all year round is hazardous or unsafe, but these animals are naturally herd animals who live in the wild - of course they can stay outdoors! Pasture board situations often include what's called a 'run-in'. This is where your horse would go doing storms for shelter. A 'run-in' can be described as something of a carport. It's a loose shelter with a roof sometimes closed on three sides and sometimes on two.
Self Board - Self board or as it's sometimes called Semi board is an indoor situation where you get a stall and paddock. It's called self board because it's your responsibility to do the rest. You have to supply the grain, hay, feed, turnout, and clean your own stall everyday. This is usually half the price of full board and can be a good choice if you have the time to properly care for your animal. Consider this option if you live a reasonable driving distance to the stable.
Full Board - This is the best choice for horse owners who cannot make it to the stable everyday and excellent for children as they can spend their time at the stable in lessons. Full board can be considered a complete solution including: daily turnout, feeding, and cleaning of stall and paddocks. Stable hands that work at the facilities manage the daily routine of caring for your horse and your responsibility are only for things such as calls to a vet, special feeds, blanketing, etc.
Take a visit to your local stables, commercial or private, before making any arrangements to find the right one for you and your horse. There are many options and not all horse boarding stables are created equal. Some have extra facilities which may be assets such as indoor arenas and round pens, while other may have different trainers and clinicians who offer specialized training. All these things should play a role in your final decision on horse boarding stables.
Janis Macintyre is a mother of two who has been horses her entire life. From pony club as a girl to owning and training three horses as an adult, Janis loves horses and shares her experiences on her site. For more articles like this please visit
http://healthyhorsecare.blogspot.com