How to Select a Thoroughbred Racing Stable

You may only visit your Thoroughbred a few times a week at his racing stable, but he will stay there throughout his career. Since this will be his home, you'll want to provide him with the best atmosphere possible not only to make him happy, but also to ensure that he can be the best performer he can possibly be.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Begin your search by checking with your favorite local racecourse. They may have suggestions or warnings to help you select the best racing stable for your Thoroughbred.
2. Determine whether there are any partnership buy-in programs that may interest you. These programs allow the stable to become part owner of the horse. A percentage of the purse for each race that Thoroughbred wins is taken by the stable to cover the horse's boarding, training, equipment, veterinary and general maintenance bills. Ultimately you pay nothing for the horse's lodging, but you will lose a large portion of your ownership.
3. Select a racing stable that has proper veterinary care. The stable should have a dedicated veterinarian on call 24 hours a day, and who will make house calls to the stable to take care of any major injuries or severe illnesses.
4. Inspect the grounds of the stable, especially where your Thoroughbred will be stalled. Clean, dry stables and well-groomed grounds are important to your horse's health and temperament.
5. Review the facilities available for your Thoroughbred. Your horse will need lots of opportunities for training and exercise while being stabled. The racing stable you choose should have at least the facilities required to keep your horse in top form for his particular event.
6. Evaluate the experience of the staff and owners of the racing stable you are considering. Your Thoroughbred will get the best training and basic care only from the most experienced stable.
7. Read the contract from the stable very carefully. This is especially true if you decide to enter into a buy-in program. Be sure that the minimum leasing time and the various charges for services are well within your budget, and that no fees are being charged for services you will never utilize.
8. Observe your horse carefully once you select a stable. If your Thoroughbred is acting uncomfortable, you may wish to investigate the situation to make sure your horse is being taken care of properly.

Tips & Warnings

• If your horse shows any signs of neglect, malnutrition or abuse, remove him from the stable immediately.