Top tips for owners
Making the most of your Helper experience
Whether you’re new to horse ownership or simply need an extra pair of hands from time to time, choosing the right Helper and establishing a strong foundation is essential. Below are some helpful tips and guidance to get the most out of your Helper experience.
1. Understand why you’re looking for help
Before you begin browsing potential Helpers, take a moment to reflect on exactly what support you’re looking for and why. Having clarity on your needs will help you find the most suitable person for your horse and situation.
Are you an experienced horse owner but keep your horse in a remote location or have a demanding schedule? You might just need an extra pair of hands now and again, someone reliable, local and confident with horses. Or perhaps you’re new to horse ownership or the area and would value regular support from someone with recognised equine qualifications and a deeper level of involvement.
Also consider where your horse is based. If your horse is on a livery yard or shared land, it’s essential to speak with the yard or landowner and get their approval before bringing in a Helper. Some yards may have their own rules or preferences about external help, and it’s always best to make sure everyone is aligned before proceeding.
By understanding the level of help you need, and the practicalities of your yard setup, you’ll be in a stronger position to choose a helper who truly fits your requirements.
2. Read profiles carefully
All Helpers must complete a full profile with information about their experience, qualifications and services, provide proof of address, confirm they have no criminal record and be at least 18 years old before joining our platform. Every request submitted is reviewed and approved by the Horsey Helper team.
Take time to read through profiles thoroughly:
• Do their listed services align with what you need?
• Do they have relevant experience or qualifications?
• Are they located close enough to be practical?
Check for reviews from other horse owners where available, and trust your instincts about whether they seem like a good match.
Please note: Horsey Helper is independent of all members’ businesses. While Helpers register with us and agree to our Terms & Conditions, we are not a policing organisation and cannot accept liability for their actions. Your contract is directly with your chosen Helper, and you must carry out your own checks and rely on your own judgment regarding their credibility.
3. Check competency and experience
Although each Helper profile has been reviewed, it remains your responsibility to ensure that the Helper you choose has the right level of skill, competence, and experience for the services you need. If your horse has any specific quirks, behaviours, or care requirements, please be open and honest when describing them. This information helps both you and the Helper make a well-informed decision about whether to proceed.
Tip: Consider using a written disclaimer outlining key responsibilities and care expectations. This can help prevent misunderstandings and offer peace of mind.
4. Share relevant information before the booking is accepted
When you submit a booking request, you’ll be able to message the Helper directly. At this stage, it’s important to share only the key information that may help them decide whether they are the right fit for you and your horse.
This may include:
• A brief overview of your horse (age, type, any notable quirks or behaviours)
• The type of support you’re looking for e.g. morning turnouts, full-day cover, grooming etc.
• Any specific handling or behavioural considerations e.g. nervous in the stable, strong to lead, medication needs.
• The general location and whether the yard is private or livery-based
• Any expectations that might influence their availability e.g., early start times, travel requirements.
• Frequency of help required to differentiate between a one-off visit and regular help.
This information is key for the Helper to make an informed decision about whether they feel confident and suitable to take on the booking, while keeping more personal or logistical details (like contact information or access instructions) until after acceptance.
5. Arrange an introductory meeting and confirm key details
Once your booking has been accepted, it’s important to arrange an initial meeting with your Helper. This meeting is your opportunity to get to know each other, introduce them to your horse and ensure you’re both aligned on what’s expected.
During the meeting, be sure to:
• Spend time observing how the helper interacts with your horse and how your horse responds to them. You know your horse best, so it’s important that both feel comfortable and confident with each other.
• Discuss your horse’s routine, temperament, quirks, medical conditions and any specific nutritional needs.
• Walk through the yard and show them where to find essential equipment, feed or supplies.
• Briefly recap the care requirements and cover times as outlined in your booking request.
• Provide your emergency contact details, an alternative contact in case you are unreachable, as well as the contact information for your horse’s vet and farrier.
• Talk through any preferences you have for updates or communication during the booking.
If your horse is kept on a livery yard, you should also inform the yard owner of the arrangement including the name of the Helper, the dates they will be attending and how they can be contacted if needed.
Preparing a list of points or questions in advance can help ensure you cover everything. The goal is to leave the meeting with a shared understanding and confidence on both sides.
Please note: Payment is handled securely through the Horsey Helper platform, so there’s no need to discuss or arrange this separately.
6. Insurance and liability
As a horse owner, it is strongly recommended that you hold, at a minimum, Public Liability Insurance for your horse(s) while in the care of the Helper.
As all Helpers are paid for the services they provide through the platform, it’s important to understand how this may impact your existing insurance. Your horse’s current insurance policy may not cover incidents that occur during a paid arrangement, as this could be considered a commercial service. For your peace of mind, all Helpers are expected to hold their own commercial insurance that covers them for the services they provide.
Ideally, this should include:
• Third Party Liability
• Care, Custody and Control (CCC) Cover
We strongly recommend verifying this during your initial meeting. Feel free to ask the Helper to confirm or share a copy of their insurance policy.
Please note: cover provided through British Horse Society (BHS) Gold membership is not suitable for commercial arrangements, whether for owners or Helpers.
7. Safety and biosecurity
Safety is paramount for your helper, your horse, and others on the yard. Make sure your Helper:
• Wears appropriate safety equipment. Wearing gloves and a helmet is recommended when leading or handling horses, especially in new or unfamiliar environments.
• Understands and follows any yard rules and safety procedures
• Is aware of and adheres to any biosecurity protocols in place
• Knows which areas they are permitted to access
If you’re on a shared or livery yard, confirm any specific requirements with the yard owner in advance, and ensure they are aware of the arrangement.
Final thoughts
Choosing the right support for your horse is an important decision and we’re here to help make that process as easy and reassuring as possible. By taking time to plan, communicate and clarify expectations, you can build a trusted relationship with a Helper who truly understands your needs.
If you have any questions or need further support, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Horsey Helper team.