Potential Boarders

 

Communication is huge, but it really starts with the people.  Having a good group of people, and horses, and finding the balance between them is the key. All horses, and horse owners, are different with different needs, a complexity that must be considered when making a decision that is in the best interest of everyone, as well as the management of the farm.  

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Since our boarding rates are so cheap I receive a lot of inquiries about boarding, most are legitimate, but there are some who are simply looking for a place to “dump” an unwanted horse, or one they cannot afford to take care of.  As the barn manager, I need to be very particular about new potential boarders.  Ultimately, my primary focus is the safety and welfare of my boarders and their horses. 

 

In the past I have taken for granted that horse owners know what they need to know in order to care for their horse(s).  Unfortunately, that is not always the case.  Owning a horse does not necessarily make you a horse person.  So, as a result, I tend to ask a lot of questions, mostly because I want to get to know you, but also because I need to know what your level of horse care and knowledge is.  I have also found that people who tell me they have read a lot about how to ride or care for a horse are the ones who know the least.  Hands on experience means more to me than how much you have read, common sense will always override book sense in my opinion.  If this offends you then you’re probably not a good fit for our facility.  On the other hand, if you appreciate someone being cautious about who they bring in, and the types of people you will be boarding with, and the disposition of the horses your horse will herd with, then I look forward to talking with you.

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I have attached a document which outlines some of the things I consider or look at when talking with new, potential boarders.   

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** If you are a new horse owner or looking to purchase a horse, I encourage you to strongly think before taking that step. Have you followed the right guidelines when purchasing your horse?  I have attached a link below for one of Rick Gore's videos.  He can be a little obnoxious at times, but he's direct and tells it like it is. 

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**Have you considered the monthly cost incurred with owning horses, board, hay, feed, fly spray, deworming, farrier care.  Ferguson Farm uses Virginia Tech Equine Field Services for all vet care.  Our farrier is Justin Pendry, Pendry Performance Horses.   Boarders have the option to use any vet and farrier of their own choosing. 

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**Do you have a couple of thousand dollars set back for emergency vet care, because emergencies will happen, trust me.