If you’ve ever walked down the aisle of a well-run barn, you’ve probably noticed small, laminated sheets hanging outside each stall. Better known as stall cards, they can make a world of difference in how your horse is cared for, especially when you’re not around.
Whether you board your horse, keep him at home, or travel to shows and events, having a clear, up-to-date stall card is one of those small details that helps everything run smoothly. Here’s why you should have one, what to include, and an example you can print off and fill out yourself.
Why Stall Cards Matter
- They provide a safety net. Emergencies don’t wait for you to get to the barn. If something happens—from illness or injury to fires and natural disasters—anyone who’s helping out can quickly see who your horse is, how to contact you, and who to call if you can’t be reached.
- They help barn staff and visitors. At equine boarding facilities, staff members might be responsible for the care of dozens of animals. A stall card helps them keep track of your horse’s feeding, turnout schedule, and any special needs. It also helps new employees, farriers, or veterinarians identify horses quickly.
- They’re a sign of responsible horse ownership. Keeping accurate records and clear communication shows you’re organized and invested in your horse’s well-being. It’s a small gesture that builds trust with barn managers, trainers, and anyone caring for your horse.
What to Include on a Stall Card
You can buy preprinted stall cards or make your own, but make sure yours includes these essentials:
Basic Info
- Horse’s name (barn name and registered name, if applicable).
- Owner’s name and phone number.
- Emergency contact (someone who can make decisions if you can’t be reached).
Care Details
- Feeding instructions (hay type, grain, supplements, medications, feeding schedules and rations).
- Turnout details (alone or with buddies, pasture location, and restrictions such as “must wear a grazing muzzle”).
- Allergies, medical conditions, or behavior notes (e.g., “no treats,” “kicks,” “cribber”).
Professional Contacts
- Veterinarian’s name and phone number.
- Farrier’s name and phone number.
- Trainer or barn manager contact info.
- Insurance company contact info and policy number (if applicable).
Optional Details
- A recent photo of your horse (useful in case of emergency evacuation).
- Vaccination and deworming dates.
- Horse description (age, gender, height, weight).
Ways to Use and Display Your Stall Card
Even if you’re the only one caring for your horse, having a card posted on his stall is smart, especially if friends or neighbors might help during an emergency. Slip your card into a protective plastic sleeve or laminate it so you can write updates with a dry-erase marker—perfect for changing feed or turnout notes. Some owners also color-code their stall cards to make them easier to read. Use different colors or symbols to indicate dietary needs, medical alerts, or turnout groups.
At home, consider buying an inexpensive plastic or metal stall card holder that screws into or hangs on the stall front. When you travel to events, attach a portable card to the stall bars or latch with zip ties or use a staple gun to adhere it to the front of the stall door. Magnetic stall cards are handy if stalls are metal—you can move or replace them anytime without drilling holes.
Take-Home Message
Filling out a stall card takes just a few minutes, but it can prevent confusion and horse care mistakes and even help in an emergency. It’s one of those simple strategies many thoughtful, responsible horse owners embrace.
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