06/24/2026
š„° courtesy rules in a barn are the easiest to remember.
For most horse owners, the barn is their happy place. The place they go to take a deep breath, spend some time with their horse, and catch up with their barn friends.
While the barn can act as an escape from day-to-day obligations and chores, itās important to remember that there is a whole staff behind keeping the barn a clean, functional place so that you and your horse are able to spend time together and enjoy each otherās company.
While barn staff doesnāt expect riders and boarders to chip in on the big things, like blowing the aisle or dragging the arena, small things can add up, and are much appreciated! Take a look at our list of ālittle thingā that make all the difference.
Sweep Up After Your Horse: Did you pick your horseās feet out in the aisle? What about if you clipped your horse and now there is hair everywhere? A quick sweep will clear the aisle and make work for staff a little easier.
Close The Gates: When you take your horse in from the paddock, make sure you close and secure the gate behind you. When gates arenāt secure they are more likely to break, which can be a costly expense for a barn owner.
Leave Things Where You Found Them: This applies not only to any items that you use around the barn, but also to any open or closed doors. Remember, there is always a reason for the way things are at the barn so yes, you have to put those scissors back in the same spot!
Make Sure You Put Your Things Away: Whether itās tack, brushes, or your boots, make sure that you put away all of your items before leaving the barn.
Fold Your Blankets Neatly: Thereās not much worse than stuffed blankets in front of a stall. Neatly fold your blankets and sheets before hanging on your horseās stall. Donāt know how to fold a blanket? Just ask!
Turn The Lights Off: When youāre the last one leaving the barn or arena, make sure you shut the lights off. Itās also important to really make sure you need the lights on. If thereās natural light, maybe think twice! Electricity bills add up fast.
And For Goodness Sakeā¦Pick Up Your Horseās Manure!: ā¦I donāt think we need an explanation for this one.
Next time youāre at the barn, keep this list in mind. Chances are that just by doing one of these ālittle thingsā, you will make your barn staffās day!
š Save and share this article at https://www.theplaidhorse.com/2023/06/19/respecting-the-rules-its-the-little-things/