An Open Letter to Horse Property Owners and Agistment Centres
- Loz
- May 26
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 19
Dear Horse Property Owners and Agistment Centres,
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the crucial role you play in the lives of both horses and their owners. Your dedication ensures that our beloved fur babies have a safe and nurturing home, especially for those who may not have the means to provide one themselves. Without your efforts, many horses would be without a place to call home.
This letter is an invitation to consider the impact of your decisions on the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of both horses and humans. Here are some core questions to reflect on to ensure your property is a horse-friendly haven:
Are you knowledgeable about horses' mental, physical, and emotional needs, including paddock size, herd dynamics, environmental enrichment, protection from the elements, and forage requirements (do you honestly know what types of grass are in your pastures/are they over-grazed?)?
Do you know how often to schedule farrier visits and what vaccinations horses need and their frequency?
What are your worming protocols, and how do you prevent worm resistance to treatments?
Are your fences horse-friendly, free of barbed wire and ring lock, and are gates wide enough for vehicles?
Do you have the contact details of all local vets?
If you're not horse-savvy, do you have a qualified person managing your property who can make informed decisions?
Could you volunteer at a well-regarded horse property/agistment centre to educate yourself and be open to improve?
Do you have signed contracts that are reviewed annually?
Is there a fire plan in place, and do you regularly review and communicate safety measures with all parties (staff and owners alike)?
Are your horse and common areas free from rubbish, debris, and potential hazards?
Do you have public liability insurance and clear signage?
Do you use a magnetic sweeper to pick up hidden metals that may cause significant injuries (check your arena too – you’d be surprised)?
Do you have dedicated places for equipment, feed and tack?
Are there security measures in place?
Is your arena surface the right depth for horse use, and do you regularly maintain it (do you get a professional out to “service” it at least twice a year)?
Are your fences electrified and checked daily/weekly?
Do you regularly check and maintain water supplies for paddocks (what is your plan if you run out of water during drought conditions)?
Do you rotate and rest paddocks to prevent over-grazing?
How do you safely introduce new horses and people to the property?
Do you ensure all horses have 24/7 access to forage?
Do you regularly maintain lights and pathways?
What is your communication strategy to horse owners (is this consistent and known from the start)?
By addressing these questions, you can create a safe and nurturing environment for both horses and their owners. Thank you for your commitment to the well-being of our cherished companions.
Call to Action: If you are a horse property owner or manage an agistment centre, I encourage you to take a moment to review these questions and make any necessary improvements to ensure the safety and happiness of the horses in your care. Your efforts make a significant difference in their lives and the lives of their owners.
Sincerely,
Laura from the Lagoballo Team
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