Thanksgiving is quickly approaching, and the December holidays aren’t far behind. Holidays sometimes necessitate that we be away from our horses, and finding good horse care over the holidays can be a challenge. If you know that the holidays will be keeping you away from the barn, here are some ways that you can make sure your horse still gets the care that he needs.

Swap Care With Friends

If you have local horse-owning friends, see if you can swap off caring for each other’s horses during the holidays. Swapping care with friends you know eliminates a lot of the leg work you have to perform when finding and hiring a horse sitter who you don’t know. By swapping care with friends you’ll save a bit of money while also knowing that your horse’s care is in good and capable hands.

Consider Full or Training Board

Signing your horse up for full or training board will mean that he gets the care that he needs without your having to be at the barns and stables every day. Training board can be an excellent choice for young horses, or for horses who can use a tune-up. If you sign your horse up for training board with a reputable trainer, then you will know that he is being worked and trained by a knowledgeable rider.

Lease Out Your Horse

If you will be pinched for time during the holiday season, leasing out your horse might be a good option to ensure that he gets the care and attention he needs. Horses can only stay in their stalls for so long, and some horses benefit from being in regular work. If your horse is on the heavier side, is young, or needs to be kept in shape for work that will begin after the holiday season, finding a good rider to lease your horse may be the perfect solution.

Hire a Barn Sitter

If you own your own barn and take care of your horses yourself, then you will need to hire a barn sitter to step in when you’re not available during the holidays. A barn sitter can perform standard duties like cleaning horse stalls, turning horses in and out, and feeding, but you might also want to look for someone who can do additional duties like exercising horses. You might choose to hire a professional barn sitter, or you may also be able to find a horse-loving college student who is home on winter break.

Remember, it’s best to make arrangements well ahead of time, especially when you need horse care during the holidays.

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Original Source: Making Horse Care Arrangements for the Holidays