How to Select a Stable for a Horse

Horses are as individual as human beings. Each one has its own needs, tastes and proclivities which set it apart from the remainder of its species. So too do horse owners have different needs for their animals, depending on the type of uses to which they put their horses. When they select a stable, all of those factors come into play.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Decide how many horses you need to stable. One of the first and most basic questions to ask when you select a stable is the number of horses which can comfortably fit in it. You will need at least one stall per horse, measuring at least 12 feet by 12 feet. Your stable should have enough room to accommodate all of your horses in one place.
2. Resolve the kind of purpose your horse will be put to. Riding horses and farm animals usually don't need more than a standard residential stable. Racing horses and those engaged in equestrian competitions may have additional needs, however, and will require stables with additional amenities.
3. Determine if your horse needs training. Some owners prefer to train their own horses, but for those with new animals, they may wish to select a training stable that provides both care for the horse and a training regimen designed to get him "up to speed." Training stables are also used for racing horses and equestrian horses to teach them the ins and outs of those activities.
4. Examine the ventilation of the stable. Proper ventilation is imperative for the long-term health needs of your horse. Always select a stable where the air can re-circulate freely, clearing the air of bacteria from manure and dust.
5. Study the water source and quality of food in your stable. The water should be clean and the hay fresh and dry. Just as important, your stable should have a proper drainage system, allowing water to run off during cleanings and to keep it from stagnating.
6. Measure the space in the stable. Besides the size of each stall, you want to check the ceiling height to make sure your horse can move around comfortably, as well as the size of the doors for ease of exit and the space of the aisles where the horse can come and go.
7. Look at the wiring and light fixtures in the stable. They should be properly insulated and up to code. Electrical shorts in a stable can cause a fire.
8. Check the building materials. Horse stables vary widely in their construction, but all of them should be composed of firm, clean materials marked by regular upkeep and replacement. The stalls should have comfortable bedding, and incidental details such as door latches should be secure and in good working order.
9. Interview the staff at the stable to make sure they have thorough knowledge about caring for horses. If possible, observe the employees at work for a while to ensure they're properly attending to the needs of all the animals.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep an eye on the other horses that reside in the stable in addition to yours. Horses are generally sociable creatures, but like people, they may fight if there's a personality clash.