Boarding Agreements: Protecting Colorado Horse Owners and Facilities
In Colorado’s thriving equestrian community, whether you're a horse owner seeking a reliable facility or a stable operator managing daily care and logistics, a clear and comprehensive boarding agreement is essential. These legal contracts outline the expectations, responsibilities, and liabilities of both parties—and without one, even minor misunderstandings can escalate into expensive, emotionally charged disputes.
Why Are Boarding Agreements So Important?
At their core, boarding contracts serve as legal protection. They create mutual understanding and formalize the terms under which a horse is housed and cared for. In a state like Colorado—where horses are often seen as valuable family members or business investments—this kind of legal clarity isn’t just helpful, it’s necessary.
A well-drafted agreement typically addresses:
Type of boarding (full board, pasture board, self-care, etc.)
Daily care expectations, including feed, turnout, and exercise
Medical emergencies and how decisions are handled
Farrier and veterinary responsibilities
Payment terms, late fees, and consequences of non-payment
Liability disclaimers and insurance requirements
Rules for facility use, including riding arenas and tack rooms
Notice periods for termination or removal of horses
Dispute resolution procedures
By clearly stating these terms, both parties know exactly what to expect—reducing the likelihood of disagreements down the line.
Common Pitfalls Without a Contract
Many small boarding facilities or private horse owners operate on verbal agreements or outdated contracts. This can lead to a range of problems, including:
Disputes over who pays for emergency vet care
Miscommunication about feeding routines or turnout schedules
Liability claims from injuries on the property
Difficulty collecting unpaid board or removing an abandoned horse
Without a signed agreement, courts may struggle to determine the parties’ original intent, often leading to unpredictable outcomes. An experienced equine law attorney can ensure your contract is legally enforceable and tailored to your specific operation.
Legal Protections for Both Owners and Facilities
In Colorado, equine law intersects with contract law, tort law (liability), and even property law. A customized boarding agreement can:
Protect horse owners by ensuring the agreed level of care and access to their animal
Protect stable owners from liability claims and clarify when horses can be removed for non-payment
Prevent misunderstandings by spelling out the expectations for horse behavior, use of equipment, or facility rules
Support lien rights, allowing stable owners to recover unpaid fees under Colorado’s agister lien laws
Having a clear legal roadmap can also help avoid damaging relationships and reputations within the local horse community.
Work With an Attorney Who Understands Horses
Equine law is a niche but essential field, especially in rural and ranching communities across Colorado. Whether you're a high-volume stable or a private landowner boarding one horse, consulting an attorney who understands both the law and the industry can help you draft, review, or revise your agreements for optimal protection.
Don’t wait until a conflict arises. A proactive, professionally written boarding agreement can save time, money, and heartache—keeping the focus on what matters most: the well-being of the horses and the people who care for them.
