Whatever the circumstances may be, it’s important to plan ahead and make sure that you have an agreement with someone to care for your horse if you’re unable to attend. Having written guidance prepared, that your buddy, groom or yard manager can easily follow, will give them all the information they need to look after your horse and meet their specific welfare needs. You should add as much information as you can, to make sure that your horse’s routine is kept as close to normal as possible in your absence.
If moving to a new yard, it’s helpful to give the yard manager a care plan for your horse. This will make sure they have all necessary contact details and have a written plan outlining all aspects of your horse’s care.
Complete a care plan
Download our care plan and fill in as much information as you can regarding the care of your horse.
Discuss the care plan
- Discuss the plan and make sure your yard owner, buddy or groom can access the information when needed.
- The plan can be used electronically or printed.
- Make sure your yard owner is aware of who’s caring for your horse and has the suitable contact information.
- Check your supplies. Do you have enough forage, feed, supplements and medications in stock to cover the time you will be unavailable?
- Does your buddy have access to your equipment? Is any of it locked away?
Keep up to date
Review your care plan regularly so that the information is correct and reflects any changes in your horse’s management.
If you’re unable to attend your horse, you’ll mostly be able to arrange care in advance. However, there may be occasions where you have a personal emergency and having an up-to-date care plan available will make sure someone will be able to continue looking after them in their same routine.
Emergency care plan
We strongly recommend you complete an emergency care plan as well to make sure all the relevant information is available at the yard to anyone who may discover your horse in an emergency and what actions you want to happen if you’re uncontactable.
Get in touch – we’re here to help
The Horse Care and Welfare Team are here to help and can offer you further advice with any questions you may have. Contact us on 02476 840517* or email welfare@bhs.org.uk – You can also get in touch with us via our social media channels.
Opening times are 8:35am-5pm from Monday–Thursday and 8:35am-3pm on Friday.
*Calls may be recorded for monitoring purposes.