Horse Boarding Contracts
Introduction to Horse Boarding Contracts
| If you live in a residential area and are thinking of purchasing a horse but obviously do not have the room to look after and maintain the horse, then a horse boarding facility may just be the answer. Horse boarding facilities can be located in the middle of a major city or in a rural setting. They offer a range of services that are available for a monthly fee. |  |
A boarding facility should offer daily feeding, watering and stall cleaning services at the very least. Additional services can include things like:
|
 |
Be careful to choose a boarding facility that has a knowledgeable, responsible staff with experience at horse care. If you decide on boarding your horse then you will need to discuss a horse boarding contract with the owner of the boarding farm.
Definition of a Horse Boarding Contract
 |
The owner of the boarding facility usually provides a horse boarding contract. It outlines in writing the details that have been discussed and agreed upon between the owner of the horse and the owner of the facility. The document should note all of the special services the horse owner wants and any fees involved with providing them. It will clearly state the cost of boarding and the terms of boarding at this particular farm. |
A boarding contract can often relieve the facility owner of any fault or responsibility if anything happens to you or your horse while you are there so be sure to read it carefully. If you feel there is any possibility of harm coming to your or your horse because of the owner’s negligence (for instance, there’s holes in the stall wall, a pasture fence is down or you see hay stored there that is moldy) you may want to keep looking for another facility. A horse boarding contract usually does not automatically protect the horse owner from responsibility if your horse damages property so you may want to clarify that with the owner, especially if your horse is known to chew wood or tack, before signing any contract.
As a horse owner, you should always ask for a written boarding contract to prevent misunderstandings and ensure your horse the best possible care.
Short Term & Temporary Horse Boarding Contracts
If you and your horse travel to shows, clinics or lessons away from home, you may be asked to sign a contract that covers the duration of your stay. Typically in these situations, the horse’s food, water and stall cleaning are the owner’s responsibility.
| The facility is only providing a stall and a place to ride. A boarding contract may be included or implied in your horse show entry or clinic agreement. Again, these contracts often time relieve the facility owner of any responsibility if something happens to you or your horse so be extra cautious as far as safety is concerned. |  |
