8 things to tell your horse sitter next time you're away

We get it, leaving your beloved horse with a sitter can be a bit nerve-wracking, no matter how fabulous they are. But whether you’re jetting off on a much-needed vacation or a business trip, making sure your horse sitter is well-prepared can make all the difference. So, before you hit the road, here are eight essential things to tell your horse sitter to keep your hoofed buddy happy, healthy, and well-cared for. Reins at the ready? 

1. Feeding schedule

Just like us, horses love a routine, especially when it comes to mealtimes. Give your horse sitter a clear feeding schedule, outlining the type of feed and amount, plus any supplements your four-legged friend needs. If treats are on the menu, let your sitter know which ones are a hit, and don’t forget to mention any quirky eating habits – does your horse prefer their carrots peeled or their apples sliced? Let them know!

2. Exercise routine

Horses need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy, even while you’re on vacation! Tell your sitter how your hoofy homie likes to stretch those legs, whether it’s a daily trot around the paddock, some light lunging, or an afternoon trail ride. If you want your saddled sidekick to be ridden, you’ll also need to explain how to tack them up. And don’t forget to mention any special preferences your horse has – do they hate puddles or love a particular trail? 

3. Grooming tips

Grooming isn’t just about keeping your horse looking good – it’s also a great way to check for any health issues. Explain their pamper routine in detail, from brushing techniques to horse hoof care, and if your four-legged friend has sensitive spots or loves a good scratch in certain areas, make sure your sitter is in the know. 

4. Cleaning the stalls

If you’re going away for a few weeks, your sitter will need to know how to keep your paddock pal’s living space clean. Provide them with all the necessary equipment (don’t forget the gum boots), and leave clear, step-by-step instructions on how to muck out manure and refresh the bedding.

5. Health and emergency info

Make sure your equine sitter has all essential health info, including your four-legged friend’s current medical conditions, horse medication, insurance details, and your vet’s contact info. Leave clear instructions for emergencies and show your sitter where they can find the first aid kit – it’s better to be safe than sorry!

6. Behavior quirks

Every horse has its own unique personality and quirks – maybe your hoofed buddy loves to splash around in the water bucket or has a knack for escaping the stall. Share these insights with your sitter to help them understand your horse better and avoid any surprises – the more they know, the smoother things will go. Plus, it will make it easier for them to spot when something’s off. 

7. Who’s who?

If you have more than one horse, be sure to let your sitter know how to tell them apart! This will help your sitter feel more at ease and ensure that any horse-specific instructions don’t get mixed up. 

8. Contact information

On top of your vet’s contact info, your horse sitter should have your phone number, email address, and any other ways of reaching you in an emergency (such as details of the hotel you’re staying in). It’s also a good idea to give them the details of someone who lives in the area and knows your horses, such as a neighbor (had to get that in somewhere) or relative.  

The secret to having a happy horse while you’re on vacation (and therefore, a happy human), is clear, detailed instructions. You may wish to simplify things so your sitter doesn’t feel too overwhelmed, but either way, tell them exactly how you want things done, even if it’s different from your usual routine. And most importantly, write it down!