Types of Horse Boarding Services Available

Sometimes having a horse in your backyard isn’t an option if you live in an apartment building or a subdivision. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t own a horse. Several types of facilities exist that offer boarding services that allow you to keep your equine friend at a different location. The level of care that you select for your horse at these locations will depend on your needs as an equestrian owner.

Full Board

Full boarding is the most expensive but most comprehensive form of care. A stall and full turn-out are included, and full boarding includes someone watering and feeding your horse for you as well as mucking the stall. Sometimes grooming and riding of your horse is also included. This is a great option if you live a busy life or live far away from the boarding stables. Some full boarding packages will include lessons, use of the arena, or equipment usage. Services from a farrier or veterinarian may be available for additional fees.

Part Board

As a step down from full boarding, part boarding still supplies your horse with hay feedings, water, shelter and a turn-out, but you are responsible for all other aspects of care. Grain feedings, grooming, riding, and stall maintenance is up to you. 

Self Board

This type of boarding only provides you with a location to house your horse. You are responsible for everything else. Self-boarding is a great option for those who live close by and want to spend a lot of time at the stables.

Pasture Board

Pasture boarding provides you with an outdoor location where your horse can eat and roam.  A run-in shelter is sometimes provided, but there will not be a stall for your horse. Because of this, you may need to blanket your horse in the winter or provide additional feed if there is not enough grass.