Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that choosing the right place to care for your horse is a significant decision, and we’re here to provide clarity on our services, amenities, and policies.
BOARDING
We offer a choice of inside (heated) board, as well as outside semi private and private paddock board options.
You can learn more Here.
Rates range from $600.00 – $900.00 per month per horse and are all inclusive.
You can learn more Here.
Yes!, we do.
We offer discounts for multiple horses per owner, large groups greater than 4 (i.e external trainer plus riding students) as well as discounts for prepaid board.
Contact us Here.
There aren’t any minimum or maximum stays but we do require a standard 30 day notice before you leave to avoid additional charges.
DAILY WELLNESS CHECKS
Your Horse receives wellness checks everyday…. Guaranteed!
DAILY FEEDING
Your Horse will receive a high quality hay everyday.
SUPPLEMENTS
Your Horse will receive the supplements you provide everyday.
COMPLIMENTARY BLANKETING
Your Horse will receive blankets/fly sheets as appropriate without additional charge. With owner provided blankets, rain sheets and fly sheets.
FARRIER SERVICES
Allow us to organize a farrier appointment with our in-house farrier service and take advantage of splitting call out fees with other boarders by organizing farrier appointments at the same time. You can also choose to arrange your own. No extra charge for catch and hold for farrier.
VETERINARIAN SERVICES
Allow us to organize a Veterinarian appointment with our preferred Veterinarian service and take advantage of splitting call out fees with other boarders by organizing Vet appointments at the same time. You can also choose to arrange your own. No extra charge for catch and hold for Veterinarian appointments.
EXTRA CHECKS
We will provide extra checks and care during extreme weather
WASH BAY
We provide access to a heated wash bay with warm water for bathing your horse.
USE OF FACILITIES
We provide access to a heated barn w/ full bathroom, washer/dryer, shower for boarder use as well as access to an unheated 70′ x 160′ riding arena and an 110′ Outside round ring .
HORSE TRAILER PARKING
We can provide access to an area to store your horse trailer.
Yes! We actually highly recommend that you do. This will help both parties determine if we are a good fit for one another, and that you and your horse(s) will be happy and well taken care of.
common barn rules and regulations that boarders should be aware of
Safety First:
Always prioritize safety for yourself, others, and the horses. Follow safety guidelines and report any safety concerns immediately.
Check-In and Check-Out:
Check in when you arrive and check out when you leave the facility to ensure personal safety.
Visitors and Guests:
Notify the facility of any visitors or guests, and ensure they follow the barn rules and safety guidelines.
Quiet Hours:
Respect designated quiet hours to minimize disturbances to horses and other boarders.
Cleaning and Maintenance:
Keep common areas, stalls, and equipment clean and well-maintained. SCE Follows a schedule for stall cleaning and manure removal.
Tack and Equipment:
Store tack and personal equipment in designated areas and keep them organized. Respect others’ belongings.
Turnout Etiquette:
Follow the established turnout schedule and guidelines, and ensure gates and fencing are properly secured.
Feeding Procedures:
Adhere to feeding schedules and instructions, ensuring each horse receives the correct diet and portion size.
Vaccinations and Health:
Provide up-to-date health records and vaccinations for your horse. Promptly report any signs of illness or injury.
Riding Areas:
Respect riding arena schedules and shared riding spaces. Communicate with others when sharing riding areas.
Training and Instructors:
Coordinate with facility management if you plan to bring in an outside trainer or instructor. Follow the facility’s guidelines for lessons and training.
Emergency Procedures:
Familiarize yourself with the facility’s emergency procedures, including fire, medical, and evacuation protocols.
These rules and regulations help ensure a safe, organized, and respectful environment at the horse boarding facility. Clear communication and adherence to these guidelines are essential for the well-being of the horses and the satisfaction of all boarders.
We have a comprehensive emergency plan that includes contact information for veterinarians, farriers, and other equine professionals. We make sure everyone working on the property knows where this information is kept.
Yes. The barn manager is on site 24/7 to check on the safety and well being of boarders horses.
We have a large 70′ x 160′ indoor riding arena and a multi-acre riding field for boarder use.
Yes we do. We offer coaching / lessons for riders of various skill levels in various disciplines and regularly attend horse shows as competitors. We also offer horse training and conditioning as well.
Inside stalls are cleaned daily and every paddock is cleaned bi-weekly. Our manure is securely managed far away from riding areas and common areas.
We offer hay and pellet feeds and can accommodate most any dietary requirements your horse may have.
We have both a farrier and a veterinarian on call and we can manage appointments on your behalf if you are busy or feel free to use your own and schedule your own appointments. The choice is yours.
Yes there are. You can contact us here.
Visitors are welcome. Please notify us ahead of time with the details.
Dispute Resolution Process:
Handling Issues between Boarders or Boarders & Staff/Management
1. Open Communication:
We encourage open and respectful communication among boarders, staff, and management. The facility has clear communication channels in place, such as a designated contact person, private facebook group, website and regular boarder meetings.
2. Define the Issue:
We ask that you clearly define the issue or dispute, and gather relevant information. It’s essential to have a precise understanding of the problem to find a resolution.
3. Informal Resolution:
When possible, we ask that you try to resolve the issue informally by discussing it with the involved party. This step often leads to quick and amicable solutions.
4. Mediation:
If an informal resolution is unsuccessful, you may consider mediation. Where acceptable can act as a neutral third party, a staff member or owner, can help facilitate discussions between the parties involved.
5. Documentation:
Keep records of all communications, meetings, and actions taken regarding the dispute. This documentation may be necessary if the issue escalates.
6. Involving Management:
If the dispute persists and involves another boarder, management, or facility policies, contact the facility management at 780-542-1236. Boarders have a clear process for addressing concerns with management through any of the private communication channels provided.
7. Review Facility Policies:
Facility management will review the facility’s policies and procedures related to the issue. They will ensure that policies are followed and that any necessary adjustments or clarifications are made.
8. Resolution Plan:
Facility management, in consultation with all involved parties, will develop a resolution plan that outlines specific actions and responsibilities to address the issue. This plan will have a clear timeline and steps for implementation.
9. Follow-Up and Monitoring:
After implementing the resolution plan, there will be ongoing follow-up and monitoring to ensure that the issue is being resolved satisfactorily. If necessary, adjustments to the plan can be made.
10. Escalation:
If the issue remains unresolved despite the efforts of all parties and management, the facility may consider involving legal or regulatory authorities, depending on the nature of the dispute and applicable laws and regulations.
11. Record Keeping:
Throughout the process, parties will maintain detailed records of all actions, decisions, and communications related to the dispute, including the final resolution.
12. Feedback and Improvement:
After the issue is resolved, we encourage feedback from the involved parties to identify ways to prevent similar disputes in the future and improve overall communication and policies.
By implementing a structured dispute resolution process, Steel Creek Equestrian can address issues efficiently and maintain a harmonious and safe environment for all boarders and their horses.
TURNOUT GROUP POLICY
Steel Creek Equestrian is committed to providing safe and healthy turnout options for our equine residents. We understand the importance of turnout for the physical and mental well-being of horses. Our turnout group policy outlines the procedures for matching horses for compatibility in shared spaces, ensuring a harmonious and safe environment.
Turnout Group Management:
Assessment and Compatibility:
Prior to grouping horses, each horse’s temperament, health, and social dynamics are assessed.
Compatibility is determined based on factors such as age, gender, size, temperament, and energy level.
Initial Introduction:
New horses are introduced gradually to established turnout groups to minimize stress and potential conflicts.
Horses are initially introduced in adjacent paddocks or pastures to assess reactions before direct contact.
Supervision and Observation:
Trained staff closely monitor horse interactions during the initial introductions and early turnout sessions.
Regular observation ensures the horses are adapting positively to the group dynamic.
Group Size:
Group sizes are kept manageable to reduce the risk of disputes and injuries.
Smaller groups are preferred, typically consisting of 2 to 4 horses.
Separate Turnout Areas:
Horses that do not get along are turned out in separate areas to avoid conflicts.
Special consideration is given to horses with unique needs or health concerns.
Rotation:
Horses may be rotated between different turnout groups to foster socialization and prevent boredom.
Health Monitoring:
Horses’ health and well-being are continually monitored to identify and address any issues promptly.
Isolation areas are available for horses requiring quarantine or special care.
Conflict Resolution:
In the event of conflicts or injuries within turnout groups, staff will take immediate action to separate and assess the involved horses.
If necessary, adjustments to the turnout groups will be made to ensure the safety and well-being of all horses.
Communication:
Horse owners or caretakers are encouraged to communicate any specific concerns, preferences, or observations about their horse’s compatibility and behavior in group settings.
Owners will be informed of any significant changes or issues related to their horse’s turnout group.
Conclusion:
Steel Creek Equestrian is dedicated to maintaining a safe and harmonious environment for all horses through careful assessment and management of turnout groups. By adhering to this policy, we aim to provide an enriching experience for our equine residents while prioritizing their health and well-being.
Yes! Both inside and outside boarders are provided access to spacious, secure tack lockers inside a warmly heated building.
OUR FACILITIES
Our indoor riding arena measures 70′ x 160′.
N. Not at this time. We are planning to have it completed in the very near future.
Our outside round ring measures approximately 110′ in diameter.
Due to our gradual sloping property we have good stable footing with minimal standing water and muck in all areas frequented by boarders.
TRAINING / COACHING
We currently offer three levels of dressage training. Beginner intermediate and advanced.
Yes! We’d be more than happy to work with you and your horse to get them resolved.
SHOWING
Yes we can. Although depending on the number of people going to a show it may be difficult to accommodate you directly but we will help organize transport with another barn mate whenever possible
Yes! We can arrange that for you.
Yes, for shows trainers aren’t attending as a competitor we would be more than happy to coach you at the show. (Fees are the same as for regular coaching)
FOALING SERVICES
Our foaling stall’s are covered entirely by high def video surveillance cameras. There are several live audio / visual feeds from these cameras to our cell phones as well as regular in-person wellness checks.
Yes. There may be additional fees for special cases but this can be discussed on a case by case basis.
Pre-Foaling Preparation:
- Monitor the mare’s condition closely during the last month of pregnancy.
- Ensure the mare has proper nutrition and access to fresh water.
- Provide a clean, quiet, and safe foaling environment.
- Maintain foaling stall with clean straw or shavings for bedding.
Recognizing Signs of Foaling:
- We watch for and recognize the signs of impending foaling, such as restlessness, pawing, sweating, and a dripping udder.
- We check the mare regularly, especially during the night, as mares often foal in the dark.
Supervision During Foaling:
- Most mares give birth without complications, but it’s essential to be present and ready to assist if needed.
- If the mare is calm and the foaling process is progressing smoothly, we observe from a distance to avoid unnecessary stress.
Assistance When Necessary:
- If the mare is in distress, the foal’s front feet and nose aren’t visible, or the foal is taking too long to emerge, we may need to intervene.
- We’re prepared to call a veterinarian for assistance if there are any complications.
Aseptic Procedures:
- We ensure our hands and any equipment used are clean and disinfected when assisting with the foal’s birth.
- We only intervene when necessary to avoid introducing infections.
Monitoring the Foal:
- After the foal is born, we ensure it begins breathing, stands, and nurses from the mare. This usually occurs within a couple of hours.
- We keep a close eye on the foal’s vital signs, as well as its ability to nurse and pass meconium (first stool).
Post-Foaling Care:
- We ensure the foal receives colostrum (the mare’s first milk), which provides essential antibodies.
- We monitor the mare and foal for the first few days to ensure they are bonding, and the foal is thriving.
Umbilical Care:
- We dip the foal’s umbilical cord in iodine to prevent infection.
- We monitor the stump for signs of infection or herniation.
Vaccination and Deworming:
We then follow a vaccination and deworming schedule recommended by a veterinarian for the mare and foal.
Consult a Veterinarian:
It’s highly advisable to have a veterinarian perform a post-foaling check to ensure both the mare and foal are healthy.
Introducing a mare and foal to the rest of the herd should be done with caution and consideration for the safety and well-being of all horses involved. The timing of this introduction can vary depending on several factors, including the temperament of the horses, the health of the mare and foal, and the specific circumstances.
Here are some general guidelines:
Health of the Mare and Foal: The mare and foal are both healthy and have received any necessary veterinary care, including vaccinations and deworming. The mare should have time to recover from foaling and regain her strength.
Bonding Time: Allow the mare and foal to bond and establish a strong maternal relationship. This typically takes a few days to a couple of weeks. The mare should have a chance to ensure her foal is strong and able to follow her.
Foal’s Strength and Independence: Ensure that the foal is physically strong and coordinated enough to keep up with the rest of the herd and can escape or avoid any aggressive behavior from other horses.
Herd Dynamics: Considering the dynamics of our existing herd. If you know your horses well and trust that they are generally gentle and non-aggressive, the introduction may be easier.
Supervised Introduction: When you do introduce the mare and foal to the herd, it’s best to do it gradually and under supervision. Start by allowing the mare and foal to meet one or two other horses first, and then gradually expand the group. Observe the interactions closely.
Separation Option: Depending on the size of your pasture or facility, consider having a separate, adjacent area where the mare and foal can retreat if they feel threatened. This provides a safe space for the foal to escape any aggression.
Monitor Interactions: Watch for any signs of aggression, especially from dominant or territorial horses. Mild aggression, such as chasing or nipping, can be normal as the herd establishes a pecking order, but serious aggression should be addressed immediately.
Slow Transition: Be patient and allow time for the mare and foal to adjust to the herd. It may take a few days or even weeks for them to fully integrate.
Time of Introduction: Introduce the mare and foal to the rest of the herd during a calm time of day, preferably not during feeding time or when the horses are especially active.
Safety Precautions: Have appropriate fencing and safety measures in place to protect the mare and foal if needed.
Here are some considerations:
For the Mare:
- Post-Foaling Examination: A veterinary checkup for the mare should be conducted shortly after foaling to ensure she is healthy and recovering well.
- Uterine Health: The mare’s uterus should be examined to check for any signs of infection or retained placenta.
- Vaccinations: Depending on your location and the mare’s vaccination history, she may need vaccinations to protect her from diseases. Discuss this with your veterinarian.
- Deworming: Continue the mare’s deworming program as recommended by your veterinarian.
- Post-Foaling Care: Ensure the mare receives proper post-foaling care, including a clean and comfortable environment, proper nutrition, and adequate rest.
- Monitoring: Monitor the mare for any signs of post-foaling complications, such as colic or mastitis.
For the Foal:
- Colostrum: The foal should receive colostrum, the mare’s first milk, within a few hours of birth. Colostrum provides essential antibodies for the foal’s immune system.
- Vaccinations: Foals may require vaccinations at specific ages to protect against diseases. These vaccinations should be administered according to a schedule recommended by your veterinarian.
- Deworming: Depending on your location and the foal’s deworming schedule, deworming may be necessary. Discuss with your veterinarian.
- IgG Testing: Some foals may undergo an IgG (immunoglobulin) test to ensure they received enough colostrum and have adequate passive immunity. Low IgG levels may require supplemental colostrum or plasma.
- General Health Check: Regularly check the foal’s overall health, including vital signs, hydration, and signs of illness or discomfort.
- Hoof Care: Monitor the foal’s hoof development and schedule appropriate trimming with the guidance of a farrier or veterinarian.
- Nutrition: Ensure the foal receives proper nutrition through the mare’s milk or supplemental feeding, depending on the foal’s age and growth.
- Socialization: Allow the foal to socialize with the mare and other horses as appropriate, taking care to ensure safety.
- Microchipping or Identification: Some horse owners choose to microchip foals for identification purposes.
- Weaning: Plan for the weaning process when the foal is old enough and the mare is ready. This usually occurs at several months of age.
Mare and foal bonding is a crucial process in the early stages of a foal’s life. A strong maternal bond is essential for the foal’s emotional development and overall well-being. Here are some key considerations for how we support this critical process:
1. Minimize Disturbances:
We ensure a quiet and stress-free environment for the mare and foal during and after foaling. We minimize loud noises, unfamiliar people, and other disturbances.
2. Allow for Immediate Contact:
We allow the mare to interact with her foal immediately after birth. Foals are born with a strong instinct to bond with their mothers and nurse within the first few hours of life.
3. Observe from a Distance:
While it’s essential to be present during the foaling process in case of complications, once the foal is born, we observe from a distance to allow the mare and foal to bond without interference.
4. Maintain Clean Bedding:
We keep the foaling stall or area clean and dry to ensure the comfort and health of both the mare and foal.
5. Minimal Handling:
We minimize handling of the foal in the early hours and days after birth. Allowing the mare and foal to interact without unnecessary human intervention.
6. Colostrum:
Ensure the foal receives colostrum, the mare’s first milk, within a few hours of birth. Colostrum provides essential antibodies for the foal’s immune system.
7. Nutritional Support:
Provide appropriate nutrition to the mare to support her milk production and overall health. A well-nourished mare can provide the best care for her foal.
8. Socialization:
Allow the mare and foal to spend time together, interact, and establish a strong bond. Socialization is essential for the foal’s emotional development.
9. Health Checks:
We conduct regular health checks on both the mare and foal to ensure their well-being. Address any health concerns promptly.
10. Monitoring:
We continuously monitor the mare and foal watching for any signs of distress or illness.
11. Limited Visitors:
Limit visitors and exposure to other horses during the early bonding period. Excessive human or horse interaction can disrupt the bonding process.
12. Gradual Introduction:
When introducing the mare and foal to other horses or the herd, do so gradually to minimize stress and ensure their safety.
13. Vaccinations and Deworming:
We follow a recommended vaccination and deworming schedule for both the mare and foal to ensure their health.
Yes! We offer a foal handling and socialization package.
Learn more here.
Owner/Caretaker Presence During Foaling:
This is highly dependent on a number of factors, such as;
Mare’s History: If the mare has a history of uncomplicated foalings and the owner has experience with foaling, being present may not be necessary. In such cases, many mares can foal without complications, especially if they are in a low-stress environment.
First-Time Mare: If the mare is a maiden mare (first-time mother) or has a history of difficult foalings, the owner’s presence or the presence of an experienced foaling attendant is often advisable.
High-Risk Pregnancy: Mares with high-risk pregnancies, such as older mares or those with a history of foaling complications, should have someone experienced present during foaling.
Veterinarian’s Recommendation: We follow the advice of your veterinarian. They may recommend that you be present or that you have someone experienced with foaling attend.
Guidelines for Visitor Involvement:
It’s important to follow guidelines to ensure a safe and stress-free environment:
Limit Visitors: We limit the number of visitors present during foaling. Too many people can stress the mare, which may lead to complications.
Quiet Environment: We instruct visitors to maintain a quiet environment, avoid sudden movements, and keep conversations to a minimum.
Non-Interference: Visitors should not interfere with the foaling process. They should observe from a distance and not approach the mare unless necessary.
Preparedness: We ensure that all visitors understand the signs of foaling, what to do in case of complications, and the importance of not intervening unless absolutely necessary.
Children and Pets: Please consider the presence of children and pets. It’s generally best to keep children and pets away during foaling, as their unpredictable behavior can stress the mare.
Veterinary Contact: We have contact information for a veterinarian readily available in case of emergencies. Visitors should be aware of this contact information as well.
Emergency Plan: We discuss an emergency plan with visitors in case complications arise. They should know how to contact a veterinarian or experienced foaling attendant if needed.
Visitor Departure: We ask visitors to leave after the foal is born so the mare and foal have had time to bond.
STALLIONS & STUD SERVICE(S)
Stud fees and services vary by stallion. Each stallion’s fees and services offered can be found here.