Horse Sitting

When choosing a horse sitter, it is important to look for someone who has the following qualities:

• Experience: The horse sitter should have experience caring for horses. This includes knowing how to feed, water, groom, and exercise horses. The horse sitter should also be able to recognize and handle common health problems.
• Knowledge: The horse sitter should have a good understanding of horse behavior and training. The horse sitter should also be familiar with your horse's individual needs and routines.
• Responsibility: The horse sitter should be reliable and trustworthy. The horse sitter should also be able to follow your instructions carefully.
• Flexibility: The horse sitter should be able to adjust their schedule to accommodate your needs. The horse sitter should also be able to handle unexpected situations.
• Good communication skills: The horse sitter should be able to communicate effectively with you. The horse sitter should keep you updated on your horse's condition and any concerns that they may have.

In addition to these general qualities, there are some other specific things that you may want to look for in a horse sitter, depending on your individual needs. For example, if you have a horse with special needs, such as a medical condition or behavioral problem, you will want to choose a horse sitter who has experience caring for horses with those specific needs.

Here are some tips for finding a qualified horse sitter:

• Ask your friends, family, and other horse owners for recommendations.
• Contact local horse barns and riding schools to see if they have any recommendations.
• Look for horse sitters who are certified by a reputable organization, such as the Professional Horsemen's Association (PHA) or the Equine Professional Association (EPA).
• Interview potential horse sitters and ask them about their experience, knowledge, and rates.
• Ask the horse sitter for references from previous clients.

Once you have found a few potential horse sitters, be sure to schedule a meet-and-greet with them and your horse. This will give you a chance to see how the horse sitter interacts with your horse and to ask any additional questions that you may have.

Choosing a qualified horse sitter is important for the safety and well-being of your horse. By taking the time to find a horse sitter who has the right qualities and experience, you can ensure that your horse is well cared for while you are away.