How to set up a horse sitter for success

Horse parents know that planning a vacation or a business trip involves more than just booking tickets and packing bags – it also means ensuring their hoofed family members are well cared for in their absence. Enter the noble horse sitter, who steps in to feed and care for equine companions while their pet parents are away. In this guide, we’ll trot through the steps to setting up a horse sitter for success and get you ready to pass over the reins with confidence. Saddle up!

1. Find the perfect horse sitter

Not everyone who can pet a dog or feed a cat is cut out for horse sitting, so it’s important to find out as much as you can about your potential sitter’s experience with horses. They should be comfortable around horses, know the basics of equine health, and be able to handle any surprises (like a spontaneous game of “catch me if you can” in the paddock).

Where to find horse sitting services

Local barns and equestrian clubs: Here, you’ll find people who speak fluent horse.

Trusted pet sitting websites: Look for those that allow you to filter for sitters with horse experience, like TrustedHousesitters.

Veterinarian recommendations: Vets often have connections with experienced people who are well-versed in how to care for a horse and might be available for sitting.

2. Create a detailed horse care guide

The key to a successful sit is leaving no detail to chance, so prepare an equine care guide or some sort of horse sitting checklist that covers everything your sitter might need to know. 

This should include general horse care tips as well as the following information: 

• Feeding schedule and dietary requirements such as the amount, feed type, and any supplements or medications.
• Exercise routine – how often should your horse be ridden or let out? Are there any specific trails they love or hate?
• Health information, including allergies, past injuries, or conditions your sitter needs to be aware of.
• Emergency contacts for your vet, a friend who lives nearby, and local equine hospitals.
  

3. Stock up on supplies

Make sure you’ve got enough supplies (such as feed, hay, bedding, and grooming tools or products), and store them in a place your sitter can access easily. Also supply your sitter with emergency equipment, including an equine first aid kit and instructions on how to handle common issues.

4. Introduce your horse and sitter

It’s a good idea to let your sitter familiarize themselves with your horse’s personality and quirks (like that adorable snort they make when happy) before you leave. A good bonding session can make all the difference and will give you better peace of mind while you’re away.

5. Keep in touch

Agree on how often to keep in touch before the sit begins – your sitter won’t know to send you a photo of your long-legged family member each day unless you tell them to! Discuss what kind of updates you’d like, whether it’s a daily text, a photo of your horse enjoying their day, or a quick call to reassure you that all is well. This not only keeps you connected to your horsey friend but also provides an opportunity for your sitter to report any unusual behavior or concerns immediately. 

With your horse sitter fully prepped and ready to go, you can relax and enjoy your time away. You’ll have left your beloved horse in capable hands, armed with detailed instructions and a barn full of supplies, and all that’s left for you to do is ride off into the sunset!