When it comes to being a responsible horse owner, it's important to think about all aspects of their care, and that includes ensuring they're properly looked after when you're not around. Horse sitting in the UK has become an increasingly popular service as more and more horse owners find themselves requiring reliable care for their equine friends when they are away. But how do you find the perfect horse sitter and what should you look for when discussing your horse's needs? This comprehensive guide will give you the answers, so you can have peace of mind when leaving your horse in someone else's care.
Horse Sitting Uk Table of Contents
## The Importance of Horse Sitting
Before we dive into the details of finding the ideal horse sitter, it's crucial to know why horse sitting is essential. As much as we love our horses and wish to be there for them all the time, life can sometimes throw us a curveball. Unforeseen events, work commitments or even planned vacations can leave us unable to care for our loyal friends for a short or even extended period. This is where a horse sitter steps in – a professional to give your horse the attention it needs, ensuring its wellbeing remains uncompromised:
- Regular exercise
- Feeding and nutritional care
- Health and medical checks
- Grooming and maintenance
## Finding the Right Horse Sitter
There are several ways you can go about finding a horse sitter in the UK that matches your requirements. Here are some avenues to explore:
1. Personal recommendations: Ask fellow horse owners, neighbours or friends if they can recommend a trustworthy horse sitter they have previously used. Word of mouth can be a great way to find someone reliable and experienced.
2. Local equestrian centres: Equine facilities often have experienced staff members who offer horse sitting services on the side, or they may be able to recommend reputable horse sitting professionals in the area.
3. Online directories and platforms: Search for horse sitting professionals by perusing online databases or platforms dedicated to connecting horse owners with horse sitters. Websites such as BorrowMyHorse and HorseSitters UK provide a list of potential candidates.
4. Social media groups: Equine-oriented groups on social media platforms (such as Facebook) are a great way to find horse sitters in your local area. You can post your requirements and let the suggestions come to you.
## Things to Consider When Choosing a Horse Sitter
When selecting a horse sitter, it's essential to ensure that both you and your horse feel comfortable and confident with the chosen individual. Here are some points to consider during the selection process:
1. Experience and qualifications: Ensure the horse sitter has relevant experience and, if possible, a qualification in equine care or management. This will demonstrate their commitment to the wellbeing of horses and provide you with peace of mind that your horse is in capable hands.
2. Insurance and references: Check that the horse sitter has the necessary insurances in place to cover any unforeseen accidents or issues. Additionally, ask for references from previous clients to vouch for their services.
3. Emergency plan: Discuss their protocol for handling emergencies or unforeseen issues and ensure they have a comprehensive understanding of your horse's medical history, as well as your emergency contact details and vet information readily available.
## A Real-World Example
Sarah was an experienced horse owner and had been looking after her prized horse, Daisy, for years. With an upcoming family holiday keeping her away from home for two weeks, Sarah was determined to find the perfect horse sitter to look after Daisy while she was away. After enquiring about local horse sitters at her equestrian centre, she found Alice, a qualified and insured horse sitter with glowing references. Sarah felt confident in leaving Daisy under Alice's expert care and could thoroughly enjoy her vacation, knowing that her horse was well looked after.
## Final Thoughts
Finding the right horse sitter in the UK is crucial to ensure the best possible care for your equine friend when you are away. Use this guide to navigate the process and make an informed decision that will satisfy both you and your horse's needs. Don't forget to share this post with fellow horse owners and explore other guides on How to Own a Horse for more valuable information to enhance your journey as a horse owner.
