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Vacationing with or without your Equine Partner
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It occurs to me as I sit looking at the majestic Mountains of Angel Fire, New Mexico, the time for travel is apon us, for some our companions can go with us or family comes to us, but every now and then, our equine friends get left at home. So what to do with them when we leave, how do you know they are safe, looked after, and getting the TLC they are used to?
Here are few tips to make your travels this season a little bit easier and hopefully less stressful.
If you own your property, and are leaving your horse at home.
1. Locate a trusted friend or pet sitter who comes highly recommended (call the vet/trainer for recommendations) to visit your horse at least 2x a day. Am and Pm feedings, water check, and depending on the weather, blanketing.
2. If you are using someone who has not met your horse previously, be sure to have them come out ahead of time and meet. Make certain they are comfortable with each either.
3. Arrange to leave emergancy numbers on hand, vet, yourself, and other trusted equine professionals such as your trainer or Instructor.
4. Leave plenty of feed and hay available for your horse. You don't want them to run out.
5. Notify your trainer, or vet that you will be out of town on certain dates, that way if there is an emergency they know it will be the caretaker calling, not you.
6. Workout payment prior to leaving and make sure all parties agree to the terms, sign a contract listing what is to be done in your absence.
7. Ask for email or cell number for the individual caring for your horse, so you can contact them and check in.
If you are leaving your horse with a Trainer or Boarding Stable.
1. Notify the stable with the dates you will be away, and leave contact information.
2. Make sure your horse has plenty of feed/hay.
3. If the stable is not full care, locate someone to perform the evening feeding and clean your horses stall. Many stables will do this for you, if you let them know in advance you will be gone, and offer to pay for the service.
If you have the option of traveling with your horse, and your destinations is greater than a 24 hours away, consider stopping in route to your destination, to give yourself and your horse a break.
1. If you have not seen the facility before, ask for pictures of stalls and runs.
2. Check to see that coggins, and other health papers are required to protect your equine friend.
3. Make sure there is plenty of trailer parking in secure area.
4. Carry feed, hay, water, and supplies with you. Feed and water your horse from your supplies.
Other basic safety meaures to take this holiday.
1. Lock all tack and equipment in a safe location
2. Lock all gates.
3. Stock up on feed and hay as many feed and grain stores will be closed on holidays.
Have a wonderful and Happy Holiday!
If you would like more information on keeping your safe email LydiaBagley@aggienetwork.com.
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