Pet sitting horses: equine care & compassion

Updated 22/02/2024

Although we tend to cat-chat and have doggo discussions at TrustedHousesitters, we do cater to many creatures, including horses. Have you ever considered pet-sitting horses? Equine sits may not be as commonplace as caring for kittens, chickens, or even fish, but we certainly have several lovely members who have ponies in tow.

Horse pet sitting is not for the inexperienced novice, nor is it for the faint-hearted. Our equine equals are strong, sensitive souls who need as much emotional care as they do physical tending. Pet sitting for horses is a magical and rewarding experience, but it’s very important to know what’s required and how to pet sit horses.

So let’s clip-clop our way towards a successful sit and look into how to go about pet-sitting horses.

Have some equine experience under your belt

Although this isn’t mandatory, many pet parents will ask their sitters to have some basic understanding of how to care for a horse. Whilst you may not be expected to train them for the next derby, you will know how to look after these lovely but large animals. 

If your past pet sits only include caring for creatures of the smaller variety, try to see if you can scope out some experience at a stable. Learning how to bridle, groom, feed, and exercise a horse can help to prepare you for the commitment of horse pet sitting. This will also keep you as safe as possible during the sit. Horses are large, powerful animals, so personal safety is paramount.

For those seeking some hardcore horse-handling escapades, there are equine training courses and certificates that can be achieved. Not only will this help you to look after your new pretty pony pal to the best of your abilities, but it will also keep you protected in case of any mishaps and reassure your parents of how capable you are of caring for their horse.

Try to meet your new neighing companion beforehand

We appreciate this isn’t always possible for sitters to do, but at the very least we recommend having at least one video call with the pet parents before your sit. If you’re able to meet the parents and pony in person, awesome! This is a great way for you to introduce yourself to your soon-to-be new best horse friend in the comforting presence of their humans. Horses are emotional creatures and prefer to be slowly introduced into new situations, i.e. their humans going away and being cared for by a new person.

Similarly, it’s a great way for you to learn more about their personality, their quirks, and ask as many questions as possible whilst their humans are there. Try to ask if you can shadow part of their daily routine to see what queries pop up and understand how best to help out.

Stick to their routine

Like dogs, like cats, like humans, horses love their routine. In fact, detracting from it in any way can be distressing for them. This anxiety is not healthy for the horse and it can be dangerous for you as a carer - a distressed horse can be an unpredictable horse. Be sure to stick to their schedule, offer lots of comforting cuddles and treats throughout the day, remind them their pet parents will be home soon, and contact their humans if you’re unable to complete a task in their routine, due to challenges like a sudden change in weather.

Make sure you have all their vet details

Oh, my horse, this last point is very important. Many horses will have a dedicated vet who is often an equine expert. Should anything go wrong or you have any concerns, their vet will be able to visit to help in any horse-related emergency. Be sure to ask for all the contact details for both the vet and their practice, as well as any other nearby neighbors or other contacts who can swing by the stables to help.

Meet our veterinary expert, Greg

This article has been checked by veterinarian Dr Greg Steele MA VETMB MRCVS. A mixed vet working in the UK since qualifying from Cambridge University in 2015. Greg enjoys working with all species of animals in all settings, but equally takes pride in communication and education of clients too. He lives with his wife and their cat, and enjoys a variety of sports, gardening, and the great outdoors.

Of course, if you’re a Standard or Premium TrustedHousesitters member, you already have access to our 24/7 Vet Advice Line during any sit. Not a member yet? Well, have a look to see if there are any horse pet sitting gigs available for you and find your next whinny-ing sit.