Choosing a Horse Sitter by Vicki LaBelle

My husband often wistfully says, "Remember when we just had the two geldings?" Life was easier then but certainly not as fulfilling as now when we have minis and our favorite Arabians. However, having had to leave for a family emergency recently brings home just how tied down we have become. Finding a horse sitter in particular was especially challenging. Here are some tips gleaned from our experience and some research.

Your best arrangement for horse sitting depends on how many horses you have and whether you have other animals that need care. Choices usually are;

1) Live in: (like hiring a nanny whose specialty is equines). I think of it as maximum peace of mind especially since we had dogs, cats and birds too. Another bonus is that burglars will be less likely to target your home if some one is there.

2) Drop in: A sitter who makes visits according to your schedule such as a minimum of twice a day to feed and water. Turning out, grooming and barn chores should also be discussed and agreed on.

3) Board out: Leaving your horse at a friend's or commercial barn. This could be an option if you know they'll get great care. Be aware, however, that some horses don't adjust well to a new environment and may have trouble settling in to new surroundings.

Get started in your search by asking other horse owners who they have used successfully. Most are willing to share the names of good caretakers they've used. Also ask your vet for recommendations or contact professional horse sitters. Remember to check qualification, experience and knowledge. Be sure your caretaker is reliable and get and check references. This is essential! Know that even the best caretaker may not keep things just the way you would if you don't tell your caretaker clear directions and give him or her the tools to do it.

I've made up a form I would be happy to share that includes plans for name and description of each horse (photos next to the description of the horse are great as is a map of your lay out), feeding facts, turnout schedule/stall assignments, grooming, blanketing and other routine care, barn work, emergency procedures (including the vet, names of people who can help if the caretaker gets sick, people who can haul your horses in case, etc.) phone number for the caretaker including where you'll be and horse-savvy neighbors who can pitch in if necessary. Here's one other helpful idea for your caretaker: Post emergency numbers next to the phone with written directions to your house in case of fire or other emergency. Up date your information regularly so if you have to leave quickly, it won't take hours to write everything out. I make two copies so if one gets lost, there's a back up.

Get routine farrier and vet appointments out of the way before you leave, or put them off until you return. Stock up on feed and label containers clearly. Once you are on your way, call the caretaker to make sure everything's okay and then call a few days later in case there are questions or problems. It's hard to think of everything!