Decision was made for me tonight. I tried to have a good conversation - state my concerns in a non emotional, non confrontational manner. I really did. However when excuses were made and I did everything in my power to keep my calm going I could only say the following:
"We, the boarders, are responsible for the care of our animals"
BO's reply "No, I am"
My response:
"We, the boarders, are responsible for the higher farrier and vet bills caused by your lack of proper care"
Probably not my finest moment as her and her family is going through their own personal hell, but it was the truth and it needed to be said.
I believe after tonight at least two of us are moving our horses in the next 30 days or less.
Good for standing up for yourself and your horses.
ReplyDeleteSad to have to work so hard to find a safe, reasonable place to keep them.
Looking forward to your new barn!
Well said. You are absolutely right - the owner is responsible.
ReplyDeleteDan
You said what needed to be said. If you don't speak for them (and you), who will?
ReplyDeleteEven though my horses are with friends, there are still times when I need to speak up for them — not for anything serious or life-threatening. For example, there's a gelding that belongs to another boarder that wouldn't let my Boyz come to the water trough, and he was beating up on Daltrey. I had to ask that my two not be turned out with him. Ya gotta do what ya gotta do.
You spoke up for the animals, and that was the right thing to do. Moving is the right thing too, even though it's a pain - it's clear the BO can't get her act together enough, for whatever reason, to take adequate care of the horses.
ReplyDeleteSad it had to come to this but glad you are doing the right thing for your horses. I didn't realize you were so close to me. Probably 1 1/2 hours but that is about as close as I am to anything :). Do you ever go to trail ride at White Water state park? I would also be interested in what shows you attend in the area. I am near Richmond, IN and I usually go to Sheridan or Edinburgh, IN for anything horse related lessons/shows. But would be interested to hear if there is anything on the Ohio side of us.
ReplyDeleteGood for you!!!! Listen to your gut and find a wonderful place for your kids!
ReplyDeletexo, misha
You did the right thing. It is never a good time to have these sort of conversations, and it is sad she is having family problems right now, but her responsibility to the horses under her care remains. Good for you. I hope you find a suitable place to board soon.
ReplyDeleteP.S. Did you lose weight? Your photo on the banner looks like you did....
P.S.S. Am having to post this as Anonymous-- for some reason it won't take my google account name (?). This is Reg from Horse Talk Indiana.
Good for you! I know you feel bad that the BO is having family problems, but at the end of the day you're paying money for a service that should be at standard X. If you're not getting the level of service you expect and were promised, it is a problem.
ReplyDeleteI guess if it is to be done, it must be done. You have to make the best decision for your horse/horses, end of story . Hope the new place works out better
ReplyDeleteYou need to be a strong voice for your horse. Glad you stuck up for what is right. Move! Just make sure you get good info on the next place. Talk to the other boarders.
ReplyDeleteI used to board and I know how frustrating it can be. It is difficult to find a good barn that is conveniently located, and it is a pain to have to move. But the best thing a boarder can do when the BO isn't providing proper care, is to take their horse and their money elsewhere. Good for you! Even if the BO is having personal problems, the horses should not suffer for it. She needs to get some help to run the place or get outta the business. I hope your new barn is much better.
ReplyDelete