Boarding near Winter Haven FL

[CVPeg]

So my contract job is probably ending June 30. We won’t know for sure for another week or two. Rumors change daily, but a recent, and more persistent one is that we may be able to extend our jobs down in Winter Haven FL.

I have an OTTB who hates heat, and abhors flies. If you have followed any of our past history, he is not straightforward, and also has kissing spine. I’ve either been jobless, or work 60 hours a week living close to work during the week. So he hasn’t had any regular riding - 1-2x a week. He is now at our 4th, and most perfect barn. Turnout, adequate hay, a great outdoor ring, trails, and great care. It was hard for me to find all four but now he is also - at 12! - finally settling down, too. He is not unsound except for the KS which is accommodated with a good saddle, and nothing over fences.

If the job is available, I’d either leave him where he is and pay board, but not be able to see him. Or take him with me down there.

I have friends in Ocala and Miami, but Winter Haven is not an easy commute to either location.

Am wondering if he’d hate it, or if the heat can be handled to some degree. Also average cost?.. for a barn with dependable care and the above - turnout, adequate hay/feed and outdoor ring. Trails are not a must have, but are really appreciated.

This may not happen, or may be offered and will have to think fast. Thanks.

[Zipsmom]

You have a PM.

[Heart_s_Journey]

Central Fla in the summer is VERY hot, muggy, high humidty, lots of flies, etc. exactly what your horse doesn’t handle well…

I’m in south Fla and my horse has 2 fans in his stall, screening on the windows and opening (makes stall dark, cooler, and keeps flies out), he pees and poops outside in his large turnout. That makes a huge difference as his stall remains dry and pretty much fly free. He spends most of the day in the stall. He get some turnout in the pasture in the afternoons.

During the cooler months, he’s in the paddock alot, so its the heat and flies that keep him in the stall in the summer.

Winter Haven is less expensive than down here, so you should be able to find good pasture board and if there are big trees, he will hang out under them during the day. But it’s still hot and humid, no way around it.

[CVPeg]

Thanks, both, for the info. What I need to consider.

[Nootka]

Hey!!! I am working in Bartow but stay in Winter Haven!!!

Does he do coastal hay? That is what most feed. I don’t have a horse here yet (had one in Ocala but sold her and just haven’t purchased againg yet) but can help you if you need it. It is already hot and muggy down here. There are a few farms but I would look in Lake Wales but there is one in Winter Haven. I haven’t been there though

http://horsespringfarmriding.com/boarding/2447607

http://lakeland.craigslist.org/grd/5038962956.html

http://edmonds-ranch.hub.biz/

Further away about 40- 60 min

http://lakeland.craigslist.org/grd/5035472769.html
(Just an FYI I am at a hotel that has 280 a week rate. It is affordable and decent place if you need to stay in a hotel)