FAQs and Important Information
FAQs
Do you have any openings?
To inquire about current openings, please contact us here. If there is no current availability, we can put you on our waiting list.
Are there any veterinary requirements for my horse in order to board with you?
Yes! Written proof of a negative Coggin test taken within 12 months is required. Your horse must also be up to date on tetanus, eastern and western equine encephalitis, rabies, west nile, and flu vaccines.
Your horse will be isolated from the resident horses for ten days and a fecal egg count will be performed.
Can I use my own vet and/or farrier?
Yes, you may use whomever you wish, but you must be in attendance for these appointments. If you use our farrier and vet, we can handle your horse for you in most circumstances.
What are your hours?
You may access your horse 24/7, 365 days a year.
Who cares for my horse?
As the owners, Pat and Daryl, live on the property, they supply much of the care your horse needs.
We also have a handful of horse-savvy barn hands - some of whom board their horses with us - to clean stalls and assist with feeding and turn-in/out.
What is your feeding schedule?
Altair is unique when it comes to feeding. We feed breakfast hay and ration balancer/meds/supplements/grain at around 8:00 AM, lunch hay at 12:30 PM, dinner hay and ration balancer/meds/supplements/grain at around 5 PM, and bedtime hay at approximately 11 pm.
During the warm months, those horses who are able to eat grass have their breakfast and lunch hay replaced with grazing. They are brought in from grazing at approximately 2 PM.
My horse has special medical/social/feeding needs. Can you accommodate these?
Altair is not a one-size-fits-all barn. Every horse has needs specific to them and we do our very best to create a loving atmosphere for every equine, regardless of age, medical condition, and social skills.
Depending on availability, private paddocks may be an option, same with private grazing. There are never more than 4 horses per oversized paddock - most often 3 or less. Pasture boarded horses get their own paddocks at night.
We are skilled at finding the best feeding regimen for each horse, even the hardest of keepers. We are especially experienced in convincing horses with Cushings to take their medication, no easy feat!
Can I work off some of my boarding fees?
There is always something that needs to be done on a 40-acre horse farm. Therefore we usually have jobs available to those who wish to get a board credit. Talk to Pat for specifics.
May I have visitors?
Safe, respectful visitors are always welcome at Altair. We do reserve the right to refuse access to anyone who has proven to be unsafe or a liability. In addition, everyone who visits our barn must fill out a release form. You can print one out here or they are available in the tack room.
Do other animals live on the premises?
We adore all animals at Altair Farm! We have two cats who live in the barn, helping to keep the area free of pests. Their names are Leo and Starla and they are huge cuddle bugs and truly enjoy people.
Most weekday mornings, two of Pat and Daryl's dogs are down at the barn, "helping" their mom. There are also periodic dog visitors who like to take advantage of the indoor arena and agility equipment. If you'd like your dog to visit, please speak with Pat to make sure they will be a good fit.
Additional Information
All horse riders must wear an ASTM-SEI certified riding helmet. This includes guests.
Horse riding is considered a dangerous sport. The owners of Altair Farm, its boarders, and guests are not liable for any personal injuries suffered, any property loss or damage, or any accidents that may occur on Altair Farm property.
For the mental and physical well-being of your horse, a weekly exercise program and body check are required.
Boarders are expected to supply regular farrier care and annual dental exams for their horse.
Horses residing at Altair Farm must adhere to our deworming schedule. This includes purchasing required dewormers and paying for semi-annual fecal egg count. Any additional services such as administering medication or treatments will be assessed on a case by case basis but in general, minor treatments are included at no charge.
No alcoholic beverages are permitted on the property at any time unless approved by owner.
Smoking is not allowed in the barn or near the overhead barn doors. Smokers are asked to use an appropriate receptacle for cigarette butts.
Board is due by the 1st day of each month. A $20.00 late fee will be charged for payments received after the 5th. Board may be paid with cash, check, or Venmo.