Owning a horse is a dream come true for many, but with that dream comes a significant responsibility. As a horse owner, you need to ensure that your beloved four-legged friend receives the best care possible. Unfortunately, life sometimes gets in the way, and you might need to take time off to tend to other responsibilities or even go on a vacation. That's where a barn sitter comes in! A reliable barn sitter can give you peace of mind while you're away by ensuring your horse receives proper care, attention, and love. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into finding the perfect barn sitter, how to hire them, and how to prepare your barn for their arrival.
What are Barn Sitters, and why do you need them?
Barn sitters are qualified individuals who take care of your horse and barn while you're away. Their duties typically include feeding, grooming, cleaning, exercising, administering medications, and sometimes even making minor repairs or maintenance tasks.
Having a dedicated person responsible for your horse's well-being when you're out of town is crucial. You can enjoy your vacation or attend to other matters, knowing your horse and your property are in capable hands. A skilled barn sitter ensures that your horse maintains their routine, enjoying stable levels of comfort and familiarity throughout your absence.
Finding the Perfect Barn Sitter
To find the ideal barn sitter, start by asking fellow horse enthusiasts and friends for recommendations. You can also search online or inquire at local stables, tack shops or equestrian communities in your area. Here are some factors you should consider when choosing a barn sitter:
1. Experience
Look for someone with experience in taking care of horses, and be specific - someone accustomed to dealing with thoroughbred racehorses might be clueless when it comes to handling a miniature pony.
2. Skills
Make a list of the skills you require in a barn sitter, and match it to the candidate's expertise. It's also essential that the sitter be able to recognize illness or injury symptoms and know how to handle such situations.
3. Communication
The best barn sitters are easy to communicate with and are open to discussing any concerns or questions regarding your horse. Verify that they'll be responsive and available during your trip if you intend to check-in periodically.
Hiring Your Barn Sitter
Once you've found a potential barn sitter, conduct a thorough interview to assess their personality and background. Don't hesitate to ask for references from clients who've had them watch their horse.
If the interview goes well and their references check out, arrange a trial run wherein the sitter takes care of your horse for a short period of time while you're present. Observe how they interact with your horse as this will give you a clear indication of whether they will be a suitable choice.
Preparing Your Barn for the Barn Sitter
After you've selected your barn sitter, ensure you provide comprehensive instructions covering all aspects of horse care and maintenance. Prepare an information packet containing emergency contact numbers, vet details, feeding instructions, exercise schedules, any ongoing medical concerns, and a list of any repairs that may be needed before or during their stay.
Inform your neighbors and local veterinarian that you'll be away, providing them with the barn sitter's contact information. Conduct a walkthrough of your property, highlighting security features, maintenance issues, or areas requiring extra care. Show them where additional supplies (such as hay and feed) are stored.
Hiring a reliable and competent barn sitter is essential to ensuring your horse's well-being when you're away. Invest time in scouting the right candidate, conducting interviews and background checks, and providing them enough information to care for your horse efficiently. By following these critical steps, you will not only ensure your horse is in excellent hands but also enjoy a relaxing and carefree break, guilt-free. So, go ahead and share this guide with fellow horse owners and enjoy exploring more valuable content on How to Own a Horse!
