Navigating Horse Agistment in Australia: Costs, Services, and What to Look For

Horse Agistment in Australia: How much should you be charging and how much does it cost to agist a horse?

For horse owners, finding suitable accommodation and care for their equine companions is essential. For many horse owners, it simply isn’t practical or affordable to own and keep a suitable homestead for their horses. This is where horse agistment comes into play- a popular solution that provides horses with the care they need while offering owners peace of mind.

What is Horse Agistment?

Horse agistment involves an individual or facility accommodating and caring for a horse in exchange for a fee. This arrangement allows horse owners to benefit from professional care without the responsibility of maintaining a property themselves. Agistment services can vary widely, with options for feeding, washing, training, and more, all of which may affect the overall cost.

In Australia, you can find numerous dedicated agistment businesses, as well as independent property owners who offer these services. The person responsible for the care of the horse is known as the agistor or bailee.

How much does it cost to agist a horse?

Agistment rates can vary significantly based on location, facilities, and the services required. Generally, horse agistment can be categorized into three main types: full board, part board, and spelling agistment.

Full Board Horse Agistment

Full board agistment typically costs between $140 and $300 per week. This option is ideal for owners who compete regularly and need a reliable care schedule. Key features of full board facilities usually include:

• Two hard feeds plus access to hay
• Private paddock and stable access
• Safe, adequate fencing to the facility
• Full rugging services provided by the bailee
• Quality arenas and grounds
• Access to instructors
• Regular visits from vets and farriers

Part Board Horse Agistment

Part board agistment is generally more affordable, ranging from $60 to $160 per week. Part board agistment is often more suited to those who live in proximity to the facility and are able to visit their horse regularly. Typical services may include:

• One feed per day (or the owner may provide it)
• Access to private or share paddocks
• Often it will be your duty to let the horse in and out of the stable
• Rugs off in the morning (you may often be required to re-rug in the afternoon)

Spelling Horse Agistment

Spelling agistment is a more basic option, costing between $20 and $70 per week. It’s often chosen by owners who do not see their horses frequently, such as those with retired or non- competing horses. Services usually consist of:

• Shared paddocks
• Access to grass and potentially hay, but no hard feeds
• Regular check-ups by the agistor

Things to Consider when Navigating Horse Agistment

When searching for the right agistment facility, it’s vital to understand your needs and the services available. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

1. Paddock Types: Most facilities offer shared paddocks or private paddocks. Shared paddocks, which accommodate multiple horses, tend to be cheaper, while private paddocks provide individual space for your horse but usually come at a higher cost.

2. Facilities and Services: Ensure the agistment facility has adequate resources, such as constant access to fresh water, plenty of shade, and secure fencing. Additional amenities, such as round yards, jumping areas, indoor and outdoor arenas, and horse washing stations, can enhance your horse’s care and training opportunities.

3. Care Requirements: Clearly communicate your horse’s specific needs with the agistor. Understanding the level of care and the services included in your agistment agreement can help you avoid unexpected costs.

Finding the right agistment for your horse can greatly impact both your horse’s well-being and your peace of mind. By understanding the different types of agistment available and what to look for, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and those of your beloved equine friend. Happy agisting!