Questions to ask and which producer to pick?

[bethanyy]

Decided to send my pony away to a producer for some intensive schooling, but not sure what other questions I can ask and which producer to pick?!

I advertised for a large breeds native producer in the NW, and have narrowed it down to 2 producers - just not sure which one to pick! Such a tricky decision, they are both the same price so cost isn't an issue, have heard good recommendations about them both and they have offered an impressive service. Eek which one do I choose??

Also what other questions can you ask? I've asked the obvious ones - e.g: cost, what does this include, facilities and competing. What other questions could I ask to make the decision easier? Has anyone ever been to look at a yard before sending away to ensure it is suitable??

Help!!! I've only ever schooled my own ponies so I'm pretty clueless

[sjw87]

I'd go and look at both yards, meet the grooms etc. Just see which one you get a better feel at - after all, you're entrusting them with your pride and joy so they should be more than happy to show you around etc.

No matter how good the producer, you have to be happy with the whole package - a while ago there was a producer parked next to us at a show who I would previously have recommended to people. However, seeing one of their grooms being rough and uncaring with the horses they had on board, my opinion was changed. At the end of the day although, the producer will be in charge the grooms will be the ones doing most with your horse or pony.

Sent from my ST18i using proboards

[bethanyy]

Thank you for your advice sjw

[farrellperdi]

Sorry to hijack! But I'm in the same boat, I want to send my mare away for schooling, but have no idea what sort of questions to ask! Or who to send her to!? Just wondering if you could pm me your short listed 2 producers of you don't want to post them on here?
Many thanks

[sageandonion]

I would want to know about turnout, how often whether individual etc, who would be actually schooling/hacking (the producer or one of her oppos) and whether they use any gadgets/other bits during their schooling. What do they expect to achieve with horse in the timeframe?

[landy77]

Ask if they are happy for you to visit without an appointment, both before you decide which one to stable with and once your horse is their.

[bethanyy]

Thanks for your advice didn't even think to ask about who would actually be doing the hard work - duh!!

Farrell ill pm you, is it native producer you're looking for?