Reviews for Sundown Farm |
Add your own review |
| |
| Disclaimer: The following reviews are solely the opinions and claimed experiences of the reviewers. Horse Stable Review does not endorse any of the following reviews and cannot attest to the veracity of the statements made by the reviewers. |
| |
Reviewed by Jenny on 10/25/2010 3:34pm |
7 out of 11 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
not specified |
| Length of riding career: |
11-20 years |
| Rider classification: |
not specified |
| Main riding discipline: |
Hunter/Jumper |
| Number of horses owned: |
1-3 |
| How long at this stable: |
less than 1 year |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: Sundown has a laid-back, drama-free atmosphere -- hard to come by most places! If you like to stir trouble, look elsewhere, but everyone else is welcome, regardless of discipline or riding level. The management is gracious and friendly and very kindly permitted me to board my horse while I had her for sale.
No corners were cut in horse care. The most important proof of this for me was my mare. She kept good weight, a glossy coat (even as a grey!) and had a 100% happy, relaxed attitude. Can't argue with those results! I would board there again in a heartbeat. |
What needs improvement: Nothing |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
Reviewed by BenThere on 07/11/2010 9:22am |
10 out of 16 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
not specified |
| Length of riding career: |
11-20 years |
| Rider classification: |
not specified |
| Main riding discipline: |
Hunter/Jumper |
| Number of horses owned: |
4-6 |
| How long at this stable: |
less than 1 year |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: The facility is pretty. |
What needs improvement: They don't have any idea about the health issues regarding horses. I don't think she understands basic stable keeping. I know they haven't a clue how to feed properly, or the importance of consistancy in feed and hay. Often necessary items are done without so she can get some fancy thing she wants. There are much better barns in the area.
She isn't the instructor she thinks she is. She would be okay, I think, with beginner's but needs to recognize that she hasn't got a clue when it comes to people who are more expieranced.
You will have fun if you are looking for somewhere to call a club. But if you are looking for a place you can be comfortable with the horse care, and to learn something, check out other places. |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
|
6 out of 15 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
23 |
| Length of riding career: |
11-20 years |
| Rider classification: |
not specified |
| Main riding discipline: |
Hunter/Jumper, Dressage, Natural Horsemanship |
| Number of horses owned: |
1-3 |
| How long at this stable: |
1-3 years |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: I have worked and boarded at Sundown Farms for the past year and can tell you from personal experience as an employee that Peggy and Alex accept no nonsense in the care of their boarders' horses. They are incredibly organized and clear instructions are always kept udpated on each of the horses' personal needs. This ensures that the the highest quality of care be given to each horse no matter who is feeding. It is obvious to anyone who has actually kept a horse here and who know Peggy and Alex that the highest standard is always met no matter what. I have worked for and boarded at several other facilities in the area, and I have witnessed the work ethic behind many different stables, and most pale in comparison to the hard work and dedication that Peggy and Alex put into their barn. Not only are they dedicated workers but it is obvious to anyone who knows them at the barn that they love what they do and create a very positive environment that makes it a wonderful and happy home for both horses and riders as well as an easy place to work.
In addition, Sundown offers exceptional riding facilites. With two spacious arenas, one covered and both lit, riders can really ride whenever they like.
The turnout arrangement is also much better that any of the other four barns that I boarded at in the past. They are all very large areas and typically each turnout pasture has two horses in it who have been carefully matched.
This is really a great facility and if you are looking for the right home for your horse I highly recommend it. |
What needs improvement: N/A |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
|
7 out of 16 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
24 |
| Length of riding career: |
11-20 years |
| Rider classification: |
not specified |
| Main riding discipline: |
Hunter/Jumper, Eventing |
| Number of horses owned: |
not specified |
| How long at this stable: |
not specified |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: I couldn't be happier with the facilities and care available at Sundown Farm. The horses are all very healthy, happy and well cared for. Owners Alex & Peggy are great horsewomen and know how to run a barn. The prices are very fair and upfront.
The statements against Alex as a trainer are simply false. Alex is a talented rider and an effective, kind instructor. She has several wonderful school horses and is capable of teaching riders at a variety of levels.
Beyond the great equine care and riding facilities, Sundown has a fun, positive atmosphere. There are many boarders out there and we all like to ride together and hang out. They have adorable dogs, cats, ducks and a giant bunny named Harvey! I very much enjoy my time at Sundown and would recommend it to anyone.
Ps. I love Louie :) |
What needs improvement: Nothing! (Well, maybe x-country fences in the big field!!) |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
|
8 out of 17 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
not specified |
| Length of riding career: |
not specified |
| Rider classification: |
not specified |
| Main riding discipline: |
not specified |
| Number of horses owned: |
not specified |
| How long at this stable: |
1-3 years |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: Everything! Going out to the barn is always the highlight of my day. The barn is very clean, safe, and welcoming. I have been helping with the training of Peggy's small pony (Pico!) ever since I came to A&M, and Sundown has felt like a home away from home the entire time. I always drive away from the barn happier than I was when I first drove up. Sundown Farm is just a happy place for horses and people to be...you can't help but smile when you're out there!
It's great to have a covered arena, an outdoor arena, and large fields to ride in...it allows for a change of scenery and it insures that there will always be a dry place to ride, even after many days of rain.
Alex and Peggy are amazing people who are always great to chat with and are willing to help out with any questions/concerns you may have. They go out of their way to make sure that the horses are kept safe, healthy, and happy. If I had a horse of my own, I wouldn't keep it anywhere else (even if it were free and next door to my house!) simply because I know that Alex would take the best care of it. I know I couldn't be happier at any other barn.
Thank you SO MUCH for everything! |
What needs improvement: Nothing! |
Stable Owner's Response: thank you becca! Pico loves you most you know...
Submitted: 03/24/2010 8:39pm |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
|
11 out of 16 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
not specified |
| Length of riding career: |
11-20 years |
| Rider classification: |
not specified |
| Main riding discipline: |
Hunter/Jumper |
| Number of horses owned: |
1-3 |
| How long at this stable: |
not specified |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: If you're looking for a great barn in the area this is absolutely it! From the very first day the BO has been a total sweetheart and you can tell she really cares about the horses' well-being. I have a young thoroughbred who usually has difficulty keeping weight on but since we came to Sundown he's looked immaculate! He's happy, healthy and shiny. Another issue at past barns for us has been the fact that he's a bit of an antsy horse and not always the most respectful of personal space, but Sundown and the BO have worked miracles. He has NEVER been this quiet under saddle, even when in the past I had him on calming supplements, and despite the fact that he can sometimes be a butt to the BO she is nothing but patient and kind with him.
Most other trainers I've had have ridden him in stronger bits because they were afraid of him but the BO rides him in a happy mouth and he loves her! He's quiet, soft, attentive, and the other boarders always comment on how great he looks under saddle when the BO rides him. It seems to me that she has a natural ability with young thoroughbreds who need to be re trained due to former bad education and or abuse ( which is what my horse has been through). When I arrived at Sundown the BO asked if I had any special feed requests and I told her I completely trusted her judgment because in the past trainers have not been able to keep him fat and healthy, leaving the feeding up to her was one of the best decisions I ever made, he looks and feels great. Another thing when I first arrived my horse had never seen automatic waterers and was afraid of the noise they made, the BO reassured me that she was always there and would keep an eye on his water intake. Since she lives on the property and does a lot of the work around the barn, she is always on top of how all the horses are doing, giving them each the individualized care they need and deserve, like an owner would.
She is always reachable and whenever she does a training ride on him she tells me how it went and we discuss the next step. She's kind, sweet, and caring, and never takes a bad day out on her clients like so many BOs do, this is one of the very few barns I've been to that is completely stress and drama free. The barn is immaculate and well maintained with automatic fly spray systems, a covered arena, and a huge ring with tons of jumps. Not to mention a lot of grassy pastures for the horses. The tack room is wonderful with a bathroom, AC, and a pin code lock system (the entire facility has a pin code gate as well) for at night when the barn is closed so our expensive tack (and our babies) are safe :)
All in all this is a wonderful facility and as long as I'm in College Station, I will never move anywhere else. A million enthusiastic thumbs up!! |
What needs improvement: Nada :) |
Stable Owner's Response: Well thank you very much for your kind words. I really do try to help him and keep him happy.
Submitted: 03/24/2010 8:05pm |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
Reviewed by MCD on 03/24/2010 6:51pm |
13 out of 16 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
28 |
| Length of riding career: |
more than 20 years |
| Rider classification: |
Professional |
| Main riding discipline: |
Hunter/Jumper, Western Pleasure |
| Number of horses owned: |
1-3 |
| How long at this stable: |
not specified |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: Although I keep my horses at my own house, I have a few things to say in response to the postings by others that have questioned Alex's riding and training ability. I had the pleasure to have Alex in an Equitation class at Texas A&M-- although she certainly didnt need any instruction at the intermediate level we offered. Throughout the entire semester, Alex did a wonderful job on some of our most difficult horses. NEVER was she unfair or rough in her technique (or pushing horses too far), and ALWAYS did she improve the mount she was riding (even our most experienced). I have no doubt that Alex is a qualified trainer, with plenty of experience to satisfy experienced riders.
Those of you considering all these reviews need to keep this in mind-- NO ONE can make EVERYONE happy. No matter what business you are in, you will eventually have disgrutled customers. Look at the masses of stellar remarks, and ignore those that are tasteless. |
What needs improvement: N/A |
Stable Owner's Response: Well put, thank you for the encouragement and the review!
Submitted: 03/24/2010 8:02pm |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
|
10 out of 17 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
18 |
| Length of riding career: |
6-10 years |
| Rider classification: |
Advanced |
| Main riding discipline: |
Hunter/Jumper |
| Number of horses owned: |
1-3 |
| How long at this stable: |
less than 1 year |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: Sundown Farms is one of the most well-kept stables I've ever been to. It is such a relief to know that while I'm busy with school and when I'm out of town that my horse will be well taken care of. The owner always keeps a close eye on the horses, and if there are ever any concerns she notifies the horses owner right away, which any owner really appreciates. The facilities are beautiful and kept extremely safe and clean. They adjust feed as needed and have tremendously helped me improve my horse's health.
I would highly recommend this barn to anyone that wants the assurance that their horse will be well taken care of at all times. |
What needs improvement: N/A |
Stable Owner's Response: Thank you Kelli! I really do try to keep all the horses at a healthy weight and in a happy mind set.
Submitted: 03/24/2010 2:44pm |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
|
14 out of 20 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
23 |
| Length of riding career: |
11-20 years |
| Rider classification: |
Advanced |
| Main riding discipline: |
Hunter/Jumper, Dressage, Trail Riding |
| Number of horses owned: |
1-3 |
| How long at this stable: |
1-3 years |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: Simply said, this is an excellent barn for several reasons. First, in agreement with FanofSundown, the horses are happy here. My horse is happier here than he has been at any other boarding facility (since I’ve owned him). Alex, Peggy and all of the other people who help at the barn treat him exceptionally well, often rewarding my horse and his best friend by letting them enjoy a pasture together (if not be turned out to roam the property).
Second, I love the safety of the barn. Not only do the owners upgrade security measures of the facility (code access gate to the facility and code access door to the tack room), but the owners live on property. Just in case anything goes wrong, I always feel like my horse (and my tack) is safe at Sundown Farm.
Third, I truly enjoy the design of the barn. Not only is the barn itself cool in the summer and warm in the winter, but I appreciate the fact that there are indoor and outdoor arenas and large pastures in which we can ride. The last barn I was at only had an outdoor “arena” and pastures. Anyone who has paid attention to the weather lately should know that a covered arena is a necessity if you do not want to be soaking wet at the end of the workout.
Fourth, Peggy and Alex are incredibly knowledgeable and willing to offer advice about horses and training. Additionally, if there are training devices that I cannot afford or am thinking about buying, they have no problem letting me borrow their equipment. Furthermore, although Alex is young, I do not think that she as a barn manager should be judged based on her age. She is knowledgeable, professional, and kind. Most importantly, Alex and Peggy keep things running smoothly. Although I have not taken a lesson from Alex, I am sure that she does a great job.
Fifth, I have no complaints about the upkeep of the barn. The stalls look great (cleaned well every day), and the horses look healthy. I see that AggieDad complained that the horses were fed at varying times in the evening, but I respectfully disagree that this should be a criticism. I took lessons from nationally-ranked dressage rider who keeps her horses on her own property near Houston. She actually prefers feeding her horses are varying times (to a degree). She finds that her horses not being fed according to specific times actually improves ground manners and prevents horses from developing stomach ailments. I also worked for ranch, at which the barn manager (managing 70+ horses), also preferred a little irregularity of feeding times for the same reasons. Although I realize that some horses have special needs, I believe that slightly irregular feeding times is a good thing.
Sixth, I do not understand the complaints about the cost. The cost ($435 per month) is very reasonable, especially in consideration of how great of care the horses and boarders receive. Anyone who realizes that we are in a recession right now and that there was a drought last summer/fall, should not complain about the cost. I am pretty sure that Alex is making great personal sacrifices to make sure that board does not increase.
Seventh, I enjoy that there is no drama at the barn. I was on an equestrian team for several years in college and experience more drama than I could have ever imagined. At Sundown Farm, everybody is friendly and courteous to one another. If anyone believes that there is drama at the barn (Former Boarder/Student), it was only because he/she caused it.
Finally, given the negative criticisms that were posted, I just want to say to Alex, Peggy, and all the other people who help at Sundown Farm, thank you so much for the job that you are doing, I really appreciate it! |
What needs improvement: The only thing I can think of is the mud on the driveway and parking area. However, considering the fact that it is the Brazos Valley, I expect some mud. |
Stable Owner's Response: Thank you very much. We love Bonzi too! He does seem to be very happy. Your words are very encouraging!
Submitted: 03/24/2010 2:42pm |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
|
15 out of 20 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
22 |
| Length of riding career: |
6-10 years |
| Rider classification: |
Advanced |
| Main riding discipline: |
Dressage, Eventing, Trail Riding, Other |
| Number of horses owned: |
1-3 |
| How long at this stable: |
1-3 years |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: 1) Alex and Peggy (mother and daughter) are absolutely wonderful people!!! They are very knowledgeable about horse’s manners (on the ground and under saddle), health, and general care. Moreover, both are wonderful people to talk to while tacking up or while just hanging out at the barn.
2) The barn is very clean, safe and friendly!
3) The stalls are cleaned beautifully everyday before the horses return to their stalls in the evening (or morning in the hot months)
4) The tack room is large, tidy (and organized) with a bathroom, fridge, microwave, etc. Boarder’s have their own saddle rack and bridle hook that are all easily accessible. Plus the tack room is locked at night!
5) Two very large arenas (one covered and the other fenced) and a well built comfortable round pen. The arenas are very well lit for night time riding (great for the summer). They are also large enough to accommodate groups of riders. The round pen is a very comfortable size for both longing and for riding. The sides are angled to keep riders feet from grazing the fence and the fences are high enough to stop a horse for climbing out.
6) There are three spacious wash stalls with cross ties and overhead hoses and/or a hand held hose.
7) I have not taken a lesson with Alex but I have overheard and watched some and I (and my fiancé – another boarder) have been meaning to take some lessons, however time and finances often get in the way. I have watched her teach lessons to young children and advanced riders (over fences, etc) and the riders have gained confidence and strengthened their partnership with the horse.
8) On that note, Alex is a beautiful rider with a great seat and attitude. I have seen her ride many times and admire her skills greatly! She is very knowledgeable on different training techniques and adapts very quickly for the needs of who ever she is riding or teaching.
9) The pastures are great! I really have respect for Alex and Peggy who even during the horrible drought that hit during the winter, spring and summer of 2009, they still turned our horses out! Hay was provided when the grass was too short – hay that had become very expensive. Furthermore, when a horse is having relational problems or dietary problems because of a field they are immediately moved into another for their safety.
10) No horse comes in without being inspected for cuts, scraps, markings, abnormal or behavior changes.
11) All horses are required to be on a de-worming and vaccination schedule for both the horse’s safety and the safety of the other horses.
12) The entire facility is gated (key code required) so horses are safe! I cannot tell you how nice that is!!!
13) Alex is incredibly gracious to allow riders without horses to ride her show horse and schooling horses (including a pony). This gives girls (and guys) the opportunity to ride when they normally could not.
14) Safety is key at Sundown Farms, and it is not overbearing but it is also understood and followed.
15) Alex and Peggy are both awesome about those of us who are student at A&M. They understand that finals and midterms get in the way of owning horses. They are so kind and selfless to stand in and hold a horse for the farrier or the vet! Not many places allow this…
16) Alex is up early feeding and turning out, riding horses, teaching lessons and cleaning stalls (which are always perfect!) and still is sweet and easy to talk to and a true joy to be around!
17) The farrier is out on a three to four week rotation (the horses are on their rotation – about every other visit). There is a large animal vet clinic a mile down the road that makes farm calls.
18) Finally, Sundown Farms is by far the best barn I have boarded at (and I have been at a real dump before). I could not be at a better place. My sweet horse is in love with his living condition and is treated like a king!
THANK YOU SO MUCH SUNDOWN FOR ALL YOU DO! I LOVE YOU GUYS! |
What needs improvement: N/A |
Stable Owner's Response: Well, we love Jiggles and would do anything for him. Thank you for all that you have said.
Submitted: 03/24/2010 2:37pm |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
Reviewed by Nwpat on 03/24/2010 12:56am |
7 out of 16 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
not specified |
| Length of riding career: |
11-20 years |
| Rider classification: |
Advanced |
| Main riding discipline: |
Hunter/Jumper, Dressage, Eventing |
| Number of horses owned: |
1-3 |
| How long at this stable: |
1-3 years |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: This is one of the best barns I have ever been to. They are amazing ppl that really care about the horses. I know I can go out of town and not have to worry about my horse. They notice the smallest thing and tell me imediately. It is one of the most friendly atmospheres ever and everyone is warm and welcoming. The owner is an amazing person who is really easy to talk to and who you know is taking the best care of your horse.
I can't recommend a better place! |
What needs improvement: NOTHING |
Stable Owner's Response: Awe thanks! I really do try to keep everything light and happy in the barn. And I do take all of your concerns to heart.
Submitted: 03/24/2010 2:34pm |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
Reviewed by Student! on 03/24/2010 12:37am |
15 out of 23 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
21 |
| Length of riding career: |
11-20 years |
| Rider classification: |
Advanced |
| Main riding discipline: |
Hunter/Jumper, Dressage, Eventing |
| Number of horses owned: |
1-3 |
| How long at this stable: |
1-3 years |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: The level of commitment! Every horse is treated as if owned by the manager/trainer! Also, you simply cannot beat the facilities!! absolutely gorgeous! |
What needs improvement: really just the mud... but this is brazos county (pretty darn damp) AND i know for a fact that it will be taken care of this summer! |
Stable Owner's Response: wow! Thanks!
Submitted: 03/24/2010 2:32pm |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
|
18 out of 23 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
19 |
| Length of riding career: |
11-20 years |
| Rider classification: |
Professional |
| Main riding discipline: |
Hunter/Jumper |
| Number of horses owned: |
1-3 |
| How long at this stable: |
1-3 years |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: This stable is awesome!!!! I have a mare who used to colic weekly. Had to seriously be oiled and taken to the vet once a week. I am from Dallas and there are not many barns that have turn out and so when I came to College Station I was hoping for the best. I got caught up into a barn before I moved to Sundown that took horrible care of the horses, turned all 60 horses out together in one pasture and didn't have real stall but would charge outrageous amounts of money. I got sick of it and moved to Sundown and have not looked back ever since. Sundown makes sure that they turn out horses together who get along, if Alex, the owner, realizes your horse has one little bite or cut she will move your horse somewhere else. She is great, knows what she is doing, and looks after all the horses as if they were hers. The facility is fabulous! The arenas are huge with lights and tons of jumps, there are tons of trails, and the barn is spectacular! Alex's lessons are great, she won't stop the lesson until you have accomplished what your goal at the beginning was and if needed, she will get on your horse during the lesson, fix the problem for no charge, and let you get back on. I have been at many barns in the past both as a boarder and as a trainer and I love Sundown farm. There is not one thing I would change about it. It is a great facility with an amazing trainer for a super affordable price! You definitely can't find better in the College Station area! |
What needs improvement: Nothing. |
Stable Owner's Response: Thank you very much. That means a lot to me
Submitted: 03/24/2010 2:32pm |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
|
5 out of 28 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
not specified |
| Length of riding career: |
not specified |
| Rider classification: |
not specified |
| Main riding discipline: |
not specified |
| Number of horses owned: |
not specified |
| How long at this stable: |
not specified |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: The BO needs a hell of a lot more experience in the correct training of horses. Horses should NOT be jumped every day and should certainly not be pushed to jump higher just to win some contest. There are hardly any shavings in the stalls. Feed at odd times, feed moldy hay. Horses are not well taken care of. Training/Lessons should be focused more on proper form and equitation rather than how high/fast you can move up in the levels. Rather than pushing the horse, let the horse build up confidence in what it already knows. Also, BO needs to seperate business from friends. Instead of buying a horse because you want it, go buy shavings for the horses' stalls. |
What needs improvement: Everything needs to be improved. Cost is too much, can find places closer to town for less. Too much drama at barn to deal with. |
Stable Owner's Response: I have been reading these reviews and feel that most of them are helpful. This one however is hurtful and malicious. I do not push horses higher/faster. The “contest” I think this person is speaking about was just for fun in the barn. Nobody had to do it, and I was not there as a trainer, I was there to have fun. As for the “correct” training of horses, I am a good trainer. I do know what I am doing when I am on the back of a horse.
The feeding at odd times remark, yes in the past it was hard to get people to feed at certain times, but now that I am doing it myself it is getting done on a timely basis. And the “feeding moldy hay” remark is completely untruthful. I return moldy hay to the people I buy it from. The hay I think this person is speaking of was hay sold to me by a local producer that had been cut and then rained on. The man then re-raked it so it could dry and he put it into bails and it was fine. It was some of the best hay I had ever fed. I honestly will not feed hay with mold in it. Horses under my care are well taken care of. Just ask the other 18 horse owners in my barn.
My training/lessons should be focused on proper form? I am all about proper form; I believe that you shouldn’t jump until you have strong basic aids and a strong base of support. I do not let people jump higher until they have mastered the level they are at. In fact one student stopped coming to me for lessons because I would not let her jump. I do not push either horse or rider. If this person had actually taken a lesson with me, I think they would know the truth. I will admit I am too nice in lessons, but honestly, yelling at a student doesn’t get you anywhere.
The separation of friends and business, I do keep them separate. I have learned that I need to do that.
OK, now this is my favorite one of all “instead of buying a new horse” wow, I have not purchased a horse in probably 2 years. The only horse I can think of that is new in the barn was purchased by someone else and I was made a partial owner in exchange for care and training. In fact, I am trying to sell horses left and right!
The only drama in my barn is caused by people like this who write lies.
Submitted: 03/24/2010 2:31pm |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
|
9 out of 18 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
not specified |
| Length of riding career: |
11-20 years |
| Rider classification: |
Amateur |
| Main riding discipline: |
Hunter/Jumper |
| Number of horses owned: |
1-3 |
| How long at this stable: |
1-3 years |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: The arenas are well equipped and lit well. I liked that turnout, blanketing, and feeding supplements were included in the board rate. |
What needs improvement: I didn't like horses had to be turned out in groups. On several occassions my horse had scrapes, bites, and sometimes kick marks all over. I understand horses are herd animals, but not when they cost thousands of dollars.
I also didn't like the way the stalls were cleaned. They never were finished (still poop and urine everywhere), and the bedding was sparse. |
Stable Owner's Response: Thank you for your review. I have now added more paddocks so that horses may be let out in pairs. I watch closely to make sure that if there is kicking and other rude behavior that horses get new pasture mates. As for my stalls, I am sorry about that. I am currently cleaning the stalls myself, I was unhappy about them as well. I am looking for more solutions to keeping them clean but I am having a hard time with keeping the proper amount of shavings in them and still being able to clean them thoroughly.
Submitted: 03/24/2010 2:14pm |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
|
25 out of 31 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
not specified |
| Length of riding career: |
not specified |
| Rider classification: |
Amateur |
| Main riding discipline: |
not specified |
| Number of horses owned: |
1-3 |
| How long at this stable: |
1-3 years |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: Horses are happy here! That is the most important factor in rating a stable, and Sundown Farm has happy horses!
Horses are fed morning and evening. Will feed your choice of grain and supplements, and barn owner ALWAYS has feedings covered if she is not present. Turnout during the day in winter months, and nighttime in the hot summer months. Large turnout areas with horse quality fencing. Plenty of grass when the weather allows! Horses blanketed in winter.
Owners live on site, so nothing goes unnoticed. Very vigilant about watching for colic, cuts, and changes in behavior.
Two lighted arenas to choose from, one is covered. Both are top notch. Large roundpen for working your horse. Wash racks available. Climate-controlled tackroom with bathroom. Trailer storage. Both english and western riders board here. Large variety of jumps available to make your own course.
Beautifuly designed barn with large, airy stalls. Open design allows for breeze through the barn in summer, but not too cold in the winter.
Barn owner is very knowlegable and always willing to help with your horse. Gives lessons to all ages and is a great teacher.
Daughter and Mom team do a great job running the place. Always open to suggestions, and will move horses around if you are unhappy with turnout situation. As stated before, horses are happy here! |
What needs improvement: Only thing I would change is the mud, but you get that at all barns during the rainy season, and owner is working on improving irrigation. Couldn't find a better place to keep my horse. I sleep easy at night knowing they have been fed and cared for, even on the days when I don't make it out there. I believe previous post was unfair and speaks for itself...if you want your horse fed at EXACTLY 8am and 6pm every day for example, do it yourself! This barn is consistent in its feeding schedule. Been there for over three years and never had a problem with this, so I'm really not sure where this post is coming from! |
Stable Owner's Response: Thank you very much
Submitted: 03/24/2010 2:11pm |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
Reviewed by AggieDad on 10/27/2009 9:40pm |
18 out of 38 people found this review helpful |
| Age: |
19 |
| Length of riding career: |
6-10 years |
| Rider classification: |
Junior |
| Main riding discipline: |
Hunter/Jumper |
| Number of horses owned: |
1-3 |
| How long at this stable: |
less than 1 year |
| Hide reviewer details |
|
What I like: It's a lovely place. They have nice pastures, well turned out ring, nice facility.
They are nice people. |
What needs improvement: The care. I believe that the BO is too young to be running a facility, and hasn't got the proper expierance to care for boarder horses. She is a nice young lady, and wants to do well.
However we had to move my daughter's horse out. She would go out at different times in the evening and the feeding wouldn't be done yet, or no one was there yet to do feeding. Our horse is prone to stomach ailments and needs to be fed on a timely basis.
We needed an instructor with a lot more expierance instructing. She is good with beginners, but we didn't fit in there.
Basic necessities seem to be in short supply. |
Stable Owner's Response: Thank you for your positive remarks and helpful criticism. I am learning everyday and have been doing quite well. As for my experience level, I have been taking care of horses since I was 10 years old. Currently I have 31 horses under my care and each one of them is healthy and happy. The feeding is now under control; I have fired all but three of my helpers and do most of the feeding myself. One of the horses in my barn is prone to colic, since she has moved to my barn she hasn’t coliced once. As for my experience level in instructing, I can understand that. But, I do know what I am talking about. I can teach higher level riders and I am a good trainer.
Submitted: 03/24/2010 2:11pm |
| Did you find this review helpful? Yes No |
| |
 |