The Barn Owner's Vacation Checklist

Youre lying on a beach in an exotic locale soaking up the sun sipping on a fruity beverage seemingly without a care in the world. But all you can think about is Will my horse be okay while Im gone? Is he getting his supplements? What if hes injured or falls ill?
A vacation isnt a vacation if youre constantly worrying about your horse. Get the most out of your getaway by following these steps to ensure your horses wellbeing and your peace of mind.
Find a Horsesitter
By far the most important thing to consider as a horse owner when planning a vacation is finding a trustworthy sitter.
The right sitter is responsible reliable and a knowledgeable horse person who has had experience dealing with equine injuries.
Ask around. Maybe someone in your circle of acquaintances knows a great horsesitter.
If you are unable to find a sitter based on personal recommendation consider a professional horsesitting service.
Always check your prospective sitters references.
Check that your insurance covers your sitter. If it does not ensure that the sitter has his or her own insurance.
Choose a Backup Contact
Its a good idea to have a backup contact who can make medical decisions for your horse in the event that you cant be reached in an emergency.
Your backup contact can also check in on your horse for your peace of mind and act as support for the barn owner or sitter depending on whether you board or keep your horse at home.
Contact Your Veterinarian
Let your veterinarian know that you will be out of town and give written permission for your backup contact to make medical decisions for your horse.
Set up an account so that payment for any services rendered while youre gone is covered.
Create a Master Contact Sheet
This sheet should be distributed to your sitter backup contact and any other caretaker and should include the following information
Dates for your departure and return and a way to reach you
Phone numbers for your veterinarian and farrier
Your horses insurance policy number if hes insured and contact information for the insurance company
And contact information for all your horses caretakers so they can communicate with each other as needed.
Support System
   Find one or two people who can feed the horses muck stalls or turn inout in the event that your sitter falls ill.
   If you are at all concerned about the reliability of your sitter have someone check in periodically.
   Let your neighbours know that