Equine Law Blog

Nickels Here, Dimes There – Should Your Boarding Stable Impose Side Charges?

For boarding stables, making a profit can be very difficult. Stables face increasing costs each year such as the cost of hay and employment expenses. Raising rates can be especially difficult, but some stable managers have found ways to avoid increasing their standard boarding fees. How do they do it? They require their boarders to pay extra for specific services or amenities.

Extra Charges

Stables can create a schedule of additional fees and charges that list, for example, a specific flat fee or special rate for:

• Individual paddock turnout, as opposed to group pasture
• Holding the horse during veterinarian or farrier visits
• Blanketing and un-blanketing
• Putting on and taking off the horse’s splint boots and bell boots before turnout
• Administration of special medications (provided by the owner and approved by the veterinarian), such as oral antibiotics
• Feeding extra grain or hay for “hard keeper” horses

Boarding contracts can confirm a stable’s right to impose these and other fees. Also, stables can attach their most current list of charges to their boarding contracts and explain how and when the stable can increase charges in the future. Contracts can also explain how frequently the stable will bill for these fees, when payment is expected, and further charges for late payment or non-payment.

The Boarder’s Viewpoint

Although boarders might dislike the idea of additional charges, chances are good that they will approve of a stable that lists them, makes the list part of the contract, and invoices for the charges on a consistent basis.

Boarding contract matters, including charges, can be complicated and can vary on a state-by-state basis. Consult with a knowledgeable lawyer. 

Categories: Boarding, Contracts