I moved to Maryland almost 5 years ago and, by some miracle, found the perfect barn for my horses thanks to someone on this forum. Quiet, miles of trails, indoor, outdoor, top-notch full care, a stone’s throw from excellent trainers, and (somehow) very affordable. Unfortunately, there have been some staffing changes recently and it’s time to move on. I’ve been looking at old threads/Facebook groups and have some horsey friends putting out feelers, but I thought it might be worth seeing if COTH had any more one-in-a-million suggestions. I’m hoping to move by March 1.
I’m looking for full care field board (or full care stall board with lots of turnout) for one 21 year old ottb gelding. We used to event but are now semi-retired and do some light dressage schooling or trail rides a couple of times a week. Maximum budget is around $800/month.
Must haves:
-excellent care and communication
-Owner or dedicated staff member living on-site
-Small (fewer than 6 horses) turnout groups
-Shed in field
-rotated or large,well-maintained fields
-roundbale/free choice quality hay in the winter
-feed grain 2x/day
-clean water 24/7 (and the ability to have a heater to avoid freezes in the winter)
-Blanket changes, fly spray, fly masks included
Would really like to have (but some flexibility):
-barn schedules routine vet/farrier appointments and will hold for those appointments (or service available for an additional fee)
-barn manages fecal egg count tests/deworms as needed
-stalls available just in case
-trails
-an outdoor with good footing
I’m hoping to stay within 1 hour of D.C., ideally Montgomery County south of 270.
I’ve considered:
Good News Stable (no response)
Wyndham Oaks (waitlist)
Waredaca (waitlist)
Rainbow Rooster (a bit further than I’d like to drive)
Sugarland Farm (if anyone has experience boarding here please pm me!)
Thank you for any suggestions. Keeping my fingers crossed that you all can point me to another great place!
