Getting a part-loaner or caretaker for your horse: how does it work?

Can you introduce yourself and your horses?

My name is Esmé, I am 29 years old and people may know me from my social media channels Life as Esmé. On my platforms, I take my followers along in my daily life with and around my horses.

Over the past year, I also involved my community in my search for a new part-loaner, due to my pregnancy. That certainly resulted in mixed reactions, haha.

But it all really started during the period of Lee & Esmé. About five years ago, Leanne, known from @leanne_abigail, was the part-loaner of my horse at the time, Balou. We didn’t just share Balou, but also built a wonderful friendship.

You currently have a caretaker and a part-loaner. What are the differences?

That’s correct! I’ve actually always had part-loaners. I’ve always found it incredibly nice to share my passion with someone and give them the opportunity to be a kind of “godmother” to my horse(s). For me, it always has to be a win-win situation — for the owner, the horse, and the caretaker or part-loaner.

At the moment, Emma is the caretaker of Tizzie, my almost three-year-old mare. Emma has been with us for over 1.5 years and together we have worked on Tizzie’s groundwork. A solid foundation is extremely important for a young horse, and Emma had little experience with this before. Combined with lessons from my regular instructor, we built this up together.

In addition, Charlotte is the regular part-loaner of my seven-year-old mare Nola. Charlotte rides dressage twice a week and really enjoys picking up her hobby again. For me, it’s wonderful to see that my horse keeps moving well and enjoys it.

What are the advantages for you as an owner?

For me, the welfare of my horse(s) always comes first. In addition, I see it as a huge advantage that my horses have become easier because they interact with different people.

And it’s so much fun! Everything is more enjoyable together. We have a group chat and, besides sharing the horses, we’ve also built a lovely friendship. I really value that.

Which qualities do you find important in a part-loaner?

Honesty!

I once had a part-loaner who said she had been with my horse that day, but in reality didn’t show up at all. I really dislike that. Communication and honesty are my top priorities.

Besides that, I can say I’m quite selective. I know exactly what I do and do not look for in a part-loaner or caretaker.

Do you have certain habits or routines the caretaker/loanee must follow?

I’m at an all-inclusive stable, but I always ask the girls to feed the horses. I have my own containers with feed and supplements that need to be refilled.

Additionally, especially with this wet weather, I find the horses’ welfare extra important. I expect both horses to be properly checked and that you contact me if there is any doubt.

Do you have tips for other horse owners who are considering a caretaker or part-loaner?

Phew, that’s a tough question. I would say: trust your feeling! Sometimes it feels like searching for a needle in a haystack, but my experience is that time and patience pay off and that you really can find a perfect match. I’ve managed to do so several times over the years, in different parts of the country. So you can too! 🙂