A horse owner’s responsibilities are endless, time-consuming and expensive. With the amount of attention horses require, along with exercise and care, it’s no wonder why leases are popular in the equine industry. And with the right owner/leaser combination, a lease can be a win-win situation where duties, activities and costs are shared for one special horse.
The Right Situation
When looking for a lease, don’t be afraid to try multiple horses to ensure you and the horse are well-suited for each other. It’s best to have an experienced adult or trainer behind this decision.
Another decision you’ll have to make is whether an on- or off-site lease is preferred. This determines where the horse will reside during the lease period. On-site is where the owner keeps their horse, and off-site is taking the horse to another barn or property.
When determining what kind of lease works best for your family, it’s important to know the ins and outs of different lease options.
Common Leases
Partial lease: This is a limited and shorter-term lease. You’ll usually care for and ride the horse up to two days per week. The costs associated are minimal compared to the other more involved leases.
Half lease: Generally a 50/50 split between you and the owner. This includes half the board payment, vet and farrier bills, and sometime a use fee. Riding is likely three to four days per week. Showing may be an option.
Full lease: Owners who like to do this type of lease may not have the time to properly care for the horse or the funds to cover everything needed. You may be asked to pay a use fee in addition to full monthly board payment, vet and farrier bills. Frequent showing is sometimes an added benefit of these leases.
Get it in Writing
Teamwork, trust and communication are must-haves for a lease to work. It’s smart to have a legal professional prepare a contract that protects you, the owner, and the horse.
“Unforeseen and unexplained things are bound to happen when it comes to our sport,” says all-around trainer Farley McLendon of McLendon Show Horses in Whitesboro, Texas. “By having a legally binding contract, the specifics are spelled out to avoid confusion when it comes to who is ultimately responsible for the horse, tack and other equipment. No one should go into a lease partnership without one.
“It’s best to have every little detail covered in your contract,” she continues. “Topics like lack of use, liability, insurance coverage, riding and showing guidelines, and up-front and hidden fees should be explained as well.”
As a trainer and owner, Farley always has a “get out” clause in her leases that mainly covers the welfare of the horse. That way if things aren’t working safely or in the best interest of all involved, the lease can be ended.
Quiz: Are You Ready to Lease a Horse?
There is a lot to learn and prepare for before becoming a first-time leaser. Find out if you’d be a good lease candidate with this quiz! Circle your answers below.
1. How often do you take lessons?
a) Less than 10 times a year
b) Once a month
c) Once a week
d) Twice a week or more
2. Can you safely halter and lead a horse, groom, and tack up by yourself?
a) No way.
b) Yes, with some help from an adult.
c) Probably.
d) I’m confident in tacking-up skills.
3. True or False: When riding in the arena, you should always pass left shoulder to left shoulder.
4. What is the normal temperature of a healthy horse (in Fahrenheit)?
a) 97.5
b) 9.50
c) 103.5
d) 99.0 – 101.5
5. Which of the following are common symptoms of colic in a horse?
a) Biting/kicking at the stomach, pawing, and poor appetite.
b) Coughing, sneezing and a fever.
c) Hives, swollen eyes and runny nose.
d) Burping, bad breath and a skin rash.
6. True or False: If the horse starts to limp while you’re riding, it’s best to make the horse trot to loosen up tight muscles.
7. True or False: You should immediately dismount and walk back to the barn if your horse becomes spooky or unruly on a trail ride.
8. True or False: It’s fine to let another person ride your lease horse, especially if he/she is very experienced.
Check your answers below this photo!
Answer Key
1. C or D: The best candidates for leasing are intermediate-level and above riders who are looking to take a step up from weekly or biweekly lessons.
2. B, C or D: Being safely self-sufficient is always the goal. Needing help is not a deal breaker, but you’ll need to have adult supervision at all times while at the barn.
3. True! Riding etiquette is important for everyone to know and understand. Ask your trainer to explain all the arena rules.
4. D: Medical knowledge is a must! Knowing normal vital signs is crucial.
5. A: Symptoms of colic are gastrointestinal conditions.
6. False! It’s best to dismount and get help right away.
7. True! Remaining calm in these situations will help put your horse at ease. Get help by hand-walking a nervous horse to safety.
8. False, unless your contract clearly states that you can have others ride the horse. Remember—you’re the one responsible, and you should always use your best judgement when it comes to the lease horse.
7-8 correct: You already know a lot, and you’re probably ready to lease.
4-6 correct: You’re still learning, but you’ll be ready soon.
0-3 correct: Keep learning all you can, and you’ll get there before you know it!
Further Reading
◆ Should I Lease or Buy a Horse?
◆ How to Earn Money for Horses
This article about leasing a horse appeared in the March/April 2024 issue of Young Rider magazine. Click here to subscribe!
