For a horse to be happy and healthy there are a few non negotiable aspects needed on a property. Any horse needs:
- Water
- Grass or access to grazing/food
- Shade/shelter that protects from the sun, heat and wind
- Fencing to contain the horse
Extras that the owner may look for include:
- Highly visible fencing, shying away especially from barb wire fencing
- Paddocks that are communal or private
- A location that is close to work or home
- Someone who is living on the property that is able to check each horse daily
- A vet that is located nearby
Horses are naturally gregarious animals but it isn’t always possible or convenient for a horse owner to agist or keep their equine friend with other horses so the idea of a private paddock can indeed be appealing. This is especially true with regards to a colt or stallion or a horse that is in constant competition.
If however this isn’t the case, it’s worth considering having your horse in a paddock that is shared with others. This caters to the horse’s sociability, giving it a chance to bond with others and establish relationships that are mutually beneficial, i.e. two horses can groom each other and help to keep off flies in summer months. Communal or shared paddocks are generally cheaper than private paddocks, also.
Use of Your Horse
What you plan on doing with your horse can also bear heavily on the type of property that you choose. For instance, if the horse was rescued and is able only to be a paddock companion or cannot be ridden, then the above features may be all that is wanted.
However, if the owner is planning on riding – be it hacking out, practicing dressage or a form of jumping – then facilities need to be considered and questions asked.
- Is the property big enough to ride on or are there nearby trails?
- Are there other people that can go out riding as a safety measure and to keep you company?
- Is there a reasonably flat, preferably enclosed area in which dressage movements can be practiced and refined?
- Are jumps made available to practice over?
- Is it possible to have an outside instructor come to the property where your horse is kept to provide you with lessons?
Agistment properties can vary greatly in cost and what services/facilities are offered. When looking for the right place to keep your horse, consider the necessities, your budget and finally what you would also like on the property to assist you in progressing with your horse.
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