A Horse Training Contract form is a legally binding document between a horse owner and a trainer, outlining the responsibilities, fees, and expectations for the training period of the horse. It covers a wide range of topics including fees, payment schedules, care and maintenance of the horse, risk of loss, and the standard of care to be provided by the trainer. Such contracts are essential for protecting the interests of both the horse owner and trainer, ensuring clarity and agreement on the training process. Interested in drafting a comprehensive Horse Training Contract? Click the button below to get started.
The Horse Training Contract form, as created by NSA Horsemanship LLC and entered into by Rudy Lara (hereinafter referred to as "Trainer") and the horse's owner, establishes a comprehensive agreement detailing the terms and conditions under which a horse will be trained. This document meticulously outlines the services provided, including training and boarding fees, payment schedules, and the responsibilities of both the trainer and the owner towards the horse’s care and wellbeing. The agreement specifies the duration and location of training, provisions for veterinary and farrier services, and the expectations regarding the horse's health and safety. It incorporates clauses on the risk of loss, standard of care, inherent risks associated with equine activities, and a hold harmless agreement to protect the trainer from liability. Moreover, the contract addresses the potential sale or death of the horse, the right of lien for unpaid services, emergency care protocols, and the procedure for changes or termination of the agreement. It also encompasses rules regarding property storage, the entire agreement, and enforceability of the contract, alongside provisions for the owner to visit and check on their horse's progress. This contract not only ensures a mutual understanding between the trainer and the owner but also emphasizes the welfare of the horse, highlighting the importance of professional standards and the legal framework governing such agreements. This document stipulates clear responsibilities and expectations, aiming to foster a positive environment for equine training and care.
NSA HORSEMANSHIP LLC
TRAINING CONTRACT
WITNESS THIS AGREEMENT this _____ day of _______, 20__, by and
between Rodolfo_”Rudy” Lara, hereinafter referred to as "Trainer" and
______________________, hereinafter referred to as "Owner," and if Owner is a
minor, Owner's parent or guardian. Trainer agrees to accept Owner's horse
____________________, for training, and it is the plan and intention of the Owner to
place this horse into training. It is understood and agreed that the events or purpose for which the horse as above-described is accepted for training are as follows:
_____________________________________________________________________
l.Fees, Term, and Location. Owner shall pay the Trainer for professional services and board as described below, the fee of $_________ per month plus applicable taxes, or $ _____ per day, for training and board, for a minimum of
______ months. Pro rating of fees; Upon arrival of horse, customer agrees that the first payment due will be prorated to the 1st of the next month and a signed contract and first month payment due prior to at time of horses arrival on property.
2.Payment of Services. Monthly training fees are due on the 1st of each month the horse is in training. Upon completion of this agreement, the remainder of any and all expenses shall be due and payable immediately and the animal will not be released from Trainer's possession until all expenses are paid in full. In the event payment is overdue by five (5) days, all training stops and a late fee of $10.00 per day will be added to the amount due in order to cover the costs associated with the care of said horse. Trainer shall be entitled to a lien against the horse and/or equipment stored upon Trainer's premises in the full amount due. Enforcement of said lien shall be at the discretion of Trainer who may sell the horse and/or equipment for amounts outstanding in accordance with all applicable laws of the State of New Mexico.
3.Veterinarian, Farrier and Related Services. Trainer will use a veterinarian and farrier of his choice to provide ordinary and necessary care unless Owner has requested Owner's veterinarian and farrier be used. However, if they are unavailable, Trainer will engage his choice. All veterinarian, farrier and medicine expenses shall be paid by Owner, as further described herein. Owner agrees to have the horse(s) wormed, vaccinated, and shod or trimmed on a regular schedule, and in the event same is not accomplished and proof of same presented to Trainer within thirty (30) days from the date of such services or veterinary treatment, Trainer is authorized to arrange for such treatment, but not obligated to do so; such expense for same shall be the obligation of Owner, and upon presentation by Trainer of the bill for such services rendered, including service charges, such bill shall be paid within fifteen (15) days from the date the bill is submitted to the Owner. Trainer reserves the right to refuse any horse upon the premises if same does not appear to Trainer to be in good health, or is deemed dangerous or undesirable.
Your signature below indicates that you have read, understand, and agree with the terms of this contract.
__________________________________________Date:_____________________________
4.Training of Horse. The Trainer shall train horse and perform all services in accordance with generally accepted professional standards. Trainer cannot and does not guarantee the effect of the training program or that any particular results will be achieved, since this depends a great deal on the individual physical and mental ability of each horse. Trainer shall furnish all labor, provide suitable facilities and care for horse in an adequate manner with feed being determined by the Trainer. The Trainer has complete control over the manner of training and shall take all precautions for the proper performance thereof. In order to get the most of the training methods used,
Trainer offers and suggests individual lessons with Owner and horse so that Owner can fully understand the training methods used. These lessons will be charged at an hourly rate set forth by Trainer and said fees are due at the time the lesson is provided. Any lessons will be scheduled by the trainer at a time determined to be best for both horse and owner.
Owner shall submit a fully completed Owner's Information Sheet for each horse on the premises belonging to Owner at time of delivery.
5.Death of Horse. It is hereby agreed that in the event of the death of the horse, sale of the horse, or if the horse becomes unfit to train, Trainer has the option of accepting another horse, in accordance with this condition set forth herein within seven
(7)days; or, in the alternative, terminating this agreement upon payment of all expenses and fees.
6.Feed, Facilities, and Services. Trainer agrees to provide adequate feed and facilities for normal and reasonable care required to maintain the health and well-being of the animals in training. Feed includes alfalfa and water. Any supplements will be provided by Owner at Owners expense. Trainer does not recommend the blanketing of your horse but should you choose to have your horse blanketed there will be a $2.50 per day charge for this service. Owner acknowledges Owner has inspected the facilities and finds same in safe and acceptable order.
7.Risk of Loss and Standard of Care. During the time that the horse(s) is/are in custody of Trainer, Trainer shall not be liable for any sickness, disease, estray, theft, death or injury which may be suffered by the horse(s) or any other cause of action whatsoever, arising out of or being connected in any way with the boarding of said horse(s), except in the event of negligence on the part of Trainer, its agents, and/or employees. This includes, but is not limited to, any personal injury or disability the horse Owner, or Owner's guest, may receive on Trainer's premises.
The Owner fully understands that Trainer does not carry any insurance on any horses not owned by it for boarding or for any other purposes, whether public liability, accidental injury, theft or equine mortality insurance and that all risks connected with boarding or for any other reason for which the horse(s) in the possession of, and on the premises of Trainer are to be borne by the Owner.
The standard of care applicable to Trainer is that of ordinary care of a prudent horse owner and not as a compensated bailee. In no event shall Trainer be held liable to Owner for equine death or injury in an amount in excess of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000) per animal. Owner agrees to obtain equine insurance for any animals valued in excess of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000), at Owner's expense, or forego any claim for amounts in excess of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000). Owner agrees to disclose this entire agreement to Owner's insurance company and provide Trainer with the company's name, address and policy number. Failure to disclose insurance information shall be at Owner's risk.
8.Inherent Risks and Assumption of Risk. The undersigned acknowledges there are inherent risks associated with equine activities such as described below, and hereby expressly assumes all risks associated with participating in such activities. The inherent risks include, but are not limited to the propensity of equines to behave in ways such as, running, bucking, biting, kicking, shying, stumbling, rearing, falling or stepping
on, that may result in an injury, harm or death to persons on or around them; the unpredictability of equine’s reaction to such things as sounds, sudden movement and
unfamiliar objects, persons or other animals; certain hazards such as surface and subsurface conditions; collisions with other animals; the limited availability of emergency medical care; and the potential of a participant to act in a negligent manner
that may contribute to injury to the participant or others, such as failing to maintain control over the animal or not acting within such participant’s ability.
Owner expressly releases Stable from any and all claims for personal injury or property damage, even if caused by negligence (if allowed by the laws of this State) by Stable or its representatives, agents or employees.
Warning
Under New Mexico law, no person, corporation of partnership is liable for personal injuries to or for the death of a rider that may occur as a result of the behavior of equine animals while engaged in any equine activities, pursuant to the New Mexico Equine Liability Act, 42-13-1, et. seq.
9.Hold Harmless. Owner agrees to hold Trainer harmless from any and all claims arising from damage or injury caused by said horse(s) to anyone, and defend Trainer from any such claims. Owner agrees to disclose any and all hazardous or dangerous propensities of horse(s) boarded with Trainer. Trainer reserves the right to notify owner within seven (7) days of the horse's arrival if said horse, in Trainer's opinion, is dangerous, untrainable, unhealthy, handicapped, or otherwise unfit for training. Upon such notification, Owner shall remove said horse within seven (7) days, and all expenses incurred for the horse's stay shall be paid prior to departure. Upon payment of all fees, this contract shall be deemed terminated.
10.Emergency Care. Trainer agrees to attempt to contact Owner should Trainer determine veterinary treatment is needed for said horse(s), but, if Trainer is unable to contact Owner, Trainer is then authorized to secure emergency veterinary, and farrier care required for the health and well-being of said horse(s). All costs of such care secured shall be paid by Owner within fifteen (15) days from the date Owner receives notice thereof, or Trainer is authorized, as Owner's agent, to arrange direct billing to Owner.
Trainer shall assume that Owner desires surgical care if recommended by a veterinarian in the event of colic, or other life-threatening illness, unless Trainer is instructed herein by Owner or on Owner's Information Sheets, that the horse(s) is/are not surgical candidates.
Owner agrees to notify Trainer of any and all change of addresses, emergency telephone numbers, itineraries or other information reasonably necessary to contact Owner in the event of an emergency. In the event Owner departs for vacation or is otherwise unavailable, prior to departure Owner shall notify Trainer as to what party is authorized to make decisions in the Owner's place with regard to the health, well-being, and/or medical treatment of the horse(s).
11.Ownership-Coggins Test. Owner warrants that he owns the horse(s) and will provide proof satisfactory to Trainer of the negative Coggins test upon request.
12.Changes or Termination of This Agreement. It is agreed by the Parties that this Agreement may be changed or terminated by Trainer upon thirty (30) days notice, regardless of the rental or training period. All notices must be issued in writing unless otherwise agreed upon by the parties. There will be an early termination fee if Owner removes horse from training prior to the initial period set forth in this contract. Owner is also required to provide thirty (30) days notice that they wish to discontinue said services and remove the horse from traing.
13.Rules and Regulations. The Owner agrees to abide by all the rules and regulations of the Trainer. In the event someone other than the Owner shall call for the horse(s), such person shall have written authority signed by the Owner to obtain said horse(s).
14.Right of Lien. The Owner is given notice that Trainer has a right of lien as set forth in the laws of the State of New Mexico, for the amount due for the board and keep of such horse(s), and also for storage and services, and shall have the right, without process of law, to retain said horse(s) and other property until the amount of said indebtedness is discharged. However, Trainer will not be obligated to retain and/or maintain the horse(s) in question in the event the amount of the bill exceeds the
anticipated unregistered value of the horse(s.) In the event Trainer exercises Trainer's lien rights as above-described for non-payment, this Agreement shall constitute a Bill of Sale and authorization to process transfer applications from any breed registration as may be applicable to said horse(s) upon affidavit by Trainer's representatives setting forth the material facts of the default and foreclosure as well as Trainer's compliance with foreclosure procedures as required by law. In the event collection of this account is turned over to an attorney, Owner agrees to pay all attorney's fees, costs, and other related expenses for which a minimum charge of $250.00 will be assessed.
15.Property in Storage on Trainer’s Premises. Owner may store certain tack and equipment on the premises of Trainer at no additional charge to Owner. However, Trainer shall not be responsible for the theft, loss, damage or disappearance of any tack or equipment or other property stored at the facility as same is stored at the Owner's risk. Trainer shall not be liable for the theft, loss, damage, or disappearance of any tack or equipment taken to horse shows or clinics. Vehicles stored upon the premises will be subject to a $_____/day storage cost for all delinquent accounts.
16.Entire Agreement. This contract represents the entire agreement between the parties. No other agreements, promises, or representations, verbal or implied, are included herein unless specifically stated in this written agreement. This contract is made and entered into in the state of Trainer's stable, and shall be enforced and interpreted in accordance with the laws of said State.
17.Enforceability of Contract and Severability. In the event one or more parts of this contract are found to be unenforceable or illegal, the other portions hereof shall be deemed in full force and effect.
18.Consent to use media. The owner agrees to allow No Strings Attached Horsemanship to use photographs and/or video clips on the website. If you do not wish to have any information about your horse published, please initial and date here.
_____________
19.Owner visits. Trainer encourages you to check on your horse’s progress by regularly visiting the barn. Feel free to stop by at any time and I will make every effort to accommodate you but will not stop any training session that may be ongoing when you arrive. In the event that your horse has already had his training session for the day that you stop by unannounced, another session will not be provided. However, if you set up an appointment ahead of time, I can ensure you will be given the attention you deserve.
20.All dogs must be on a leash and not allowed to run loose or cause any sort of disruption.
OWNER or (AUTHORIZED AGENT)
Address:
Telephone:
Home:_______________________________
Work: _______________________________
Cell:_________________________________
OWNER'S INFORMATION SHEET
Owner's Name
Phone No.(h)
(as recorded with the Registry)
(w)
Address
Street
City
State
Zip
Horse's Name
Age
Color
Markings
Does Horse have any dangerous propensities? If yes, describe:
Medical History of Horse:
Colic
Frequency
Founder
When
Allergies, if known
Other
Tetanus Toxoid
Date
VEE
Encephalomyelitis (sleeping sickness), Eastern & Western Strains
Date of last worming
Coggins Test
Feeding Program:
Hay type
Amount
Grain type(s)
Pellets
Known allergies to feeds
Special Care Requirements
Habits
To be contacted in case of emergency, if owner cannot be reached:
Name
Phone Number
Is Horse insured?
Insurance Carrier
Policy #
Carrier's Address
Insurance contact for emergencies and phone number:
Veterinary emergency contact:
This Horse is/is not considered a surgical candidate in the event of colic or serious illness (check one).
_______IS ______IS NOT
Owner's Initials__________
Filling out a Horse Training Contract is an important step in establishing a formal agreement between the horse owner and the trainer. This documentation helps in clearly outlining the expectations, responsibilities, and terms of the training arrangement. It's essential for protecting the interests of both the horse owner and the trainer. Here are the steps to properly fill out the form for a smooth, straightforward process:
After completing these steps, make sure both the Owner and Trainer have signed the contract. Keep a copy for your records to refer back to during the training period. This contract lays the foundation for a successful partnership and clarifies the expectations for both parties. It's crucial for the welfare of the horse and the satisfaction of both the Owner and the Trainer.
What does it mean when the horse training contract mentions a "lien against the horse"?
In the context of this horse training contract, a "lien against the horse" refers to a legal right or claim that the Trainer has on the Owner's horse and/or equipment stored at the Trainer's premises, due to an outstanding debt owed by the Owner to the Trainer. If the Owner fails to pay for the services provided, such as training fees or board, the Trainer is entitled to keep possession of the horse and/or equipment and may even sell them to recover the owed amount, in accordance with the applicable laws of the State of New Mexico. Essentially, it's a security measure for the Trainer to ensure they are compensated for their services.
Can the Trainer refuse to train my horse if they deem it unhealthy or dangerous?
Yes, the Trainer reserves the right to refuse any horse that does not appear to be in good health, or is deemed dangerous, undesirable, or otherwise unfit for training upon its arrival at the premises or at any point during the training period. This is for the safety and well-being of all parties involved, including the horse, the Trainer, and any personnel on the premises. If the Trainer decides to refuse your horse under these circumstances, you will be notified and expected to remove your horse within seven days, paying all incurred expenses before departure.
What are the Owner's responsibilities in terms of veterinary and farrier care?
The Owner is responsible for ensuring that the horse undergoes regular worming, vaccination, and hoof care (either shoeing or trimming) on a scheduled basis. Proof of such care must be presented to the Trainer within thirty days from the date of services or veterinary treatment. If proof is not presented or such care has not been arranged by the Owner, the Trainer may, but is not obligated to, arrange for these treatments at the Owner's expense. The incurred expenses for these services, including any related service charges, are the obligation of the Owner and must be paid within fifteen days from the date the bill is presented by the Trainer.
How is the risk of loss handled in this contract?
The Trainer is not held liable for any sickness, disease, theft, death, or injury that may occur to the horse(s) while in their care, except in the case of negligence on the part of the Trainer, its agents, or employees. This clause emphasizes that owning and training a horse involves inherent risks, and the Owner assumes all responsibility for these risks during the horse’s stay at the Trainer’s facility. The Trainer is compared to an ordinary prudent horse owner in terms of the standard of care, not as a compensated bailee. However, it is recommended that the Owner obtain equine insurance for any animals valued over $5,000 to cover any risks beyond this amount.
What happens if the horse dies or becomes unfit for training?
Should the horse die, be sold, or become unfit for training during the contract term, the Trainer has the option either to accept another horse in its place, under the same conditions stated in the contract, or to terminate the agreement upon settlement of all expenses and fees. This provides a level of flexibility for both the Trainer and the Owner in unforeseen circumstances, ensuring that the interests of both parties are considered and protected.
Are there any provisions for emergency care?
Yes, the Trainer is authorized to arrange for emergency veterinary and farrier care if they deem it necessary for the horse's health and well-being and cannot contact the Owner. The costs for such emergency care will be the Owner's responsibility and payable within fifteen days of receiving notice. However, the Trainer will adhere to any specific instructions provided by the Owner regarding surgical care if such directions are given in advance. This ensures that the horse receives timely medical attention when needed, even if the Owner is not immediately reachable.
Filling out a Horse Training Contract form requires thoroughness and attention to detail. Unfortunately, mistakes can and do happen. Recognizing and avoiding these common errors can ensure a smoother experience for both the horse owner and the trainer. Below are six common mistakes made when filling out a Horse Training Contract form:
Failing to specify the training and goals - Not clearly stating the specific type of training or the goals for the horse can lead to misunderstandings about what is expected from the training program.
Incorrect or incomplete financial terms - Overlooking to fill out the exact fees, payment schedules, or the process for prorating fees can create disputes over financial obligations later.
Neglecting to detail the veterinarian and farrier services - Failing to specify whether the owner prefers to use their veterinarian and farrier or the trainer’s can result in confusion and potentially unsatisfactory care.
Omitting emergency contact information - Not providing or updating contact information may delay necessary decision-making in case of an emergency.
Ignoring the need for insurance information - Not disclosing insurance details or failing to obtain equine insurance for animals valued over the specified amount puts the owner at a financial risk.
Inadequate review of the lien and storage policies - Not understanding the conditions under which a lien could be placed on the horse or the policies for storing personal property can lead to unexpected expenses or loss of property.
To prevent these mistakes:
Read the entire contract carefully before signing.
Ensure all sections of the contract are completed fully and accurately.
Ask for clarification on any term or condition that is not understood.
Keep a copy of the signed contract for personal records.
Update the trainer with any changes to contact information or insurance details swiftly.
By paying attention to these details, both parties can focus on the success and progress of the horse’s training, reducing potential conflicts or misunderstandings.
Horse training is a comprehensive process, requiring more than just a training contract. Various forms and documents support and define the scope of the agreement, ensuring clarity and mutual understanding between the horse owner and the trainer. Below are up to seven other forms and documents often used alongside a Horse Training Contract form, each playing a crucial role in a successful training arrangement.
Combining these documents with a Horse Training Contract form creates a thorough and clear agreement between the horse owner and the trainer. It not only covers the expectations and responsibilities of each party but also ensures the welfare of the horse is prioritized throughout the training process. Proper documentation can help prevent misunderstandings and provide a smooth path for both the horse's development and the owner's peace of mind.
Boarding Stable Agreement: Similar to a Horse Training Contract, a Boarding Stable Agreement outlines the terms and conditions under which a horse will be housed and cared for at a stable. Both documents specify fees, services provided, and the standard of care, ensuring the health and well-being of the horse while at the facility.
Equine Lease Agreement: While focusing on the temporary transfer of ownership rights, an Equine Lease Agreement shares similarities with a Horse Training Contract in terms of specifying responsibilities for the care, custody, and condition of the horse during the lease period, including training, boarding, and veterinary care provisions.
Animal Sale Agreement: This document details the terms under which ownership of an animal (in this case, a horse) is transferred from one party to another. Like the Horse Training Contract, it may include representations about the animal’s condition, training level, and other specifics relevant to its value and care.
Veterinary Care Agreement: While focusing specifically on the medical treatment and care of animals, a Veterinary Care Agreement and a Horse Training Contract both entail provisions for the health and well-being of the horse, including routine and emergency care, specifying responsibilities and financial obligations of the owner.
Liability Waiver for Equine Activities: Both the Horse Training Contract and a Liability Waiver emphasize the inherent risks involved in horse-related activities and outline terms to limit the liability of the trainers or property owners in case of an injury or damage caused by the horse, thus sharing a focus on managing liability and risk.
Equine Service Provider Contract: This type of agreement, whether it concerns farriers, equine dentists, or other specialists, is akin to a Horse Training Contract as both define the scope of services to be provided, fees, and terms under which the services are rendered to ensure the horse's well-being and performance.
Property Use Agreement: Often used when a trainer needs access to land or facilities for training purposes, a Property Use Agreement shares characteristics with a Horse Training Contract by outlining terms governing the use of property, care obligations, and liability issues, albeit with a focus on real estate rather than equine care directly.
Equine Consignment Agreement: This document arranges for a party to sell a horse on behalf of the owner. It is similar to a Horse Training Contract in that it might cover training and preparation of the horse for sale, along with specifying fees, responsibilities related to the horse’s care, and conditions under which the sale will proceed.
When preparing to fill out the Horse Training Contract form, it is essential that every detail is addressed with the utmost care and clarity. Here is a list of things you should and shouldn't do to ensure a smooth and transparent agreement process between you and the trainer.
By following these guidelines, you ensure a transparent and fair agreement that protects the interests of both you as the horse owner and the trainer. It sets a solid foundation for the training period and helps in achieving the best outcomes for your horse.
Understanding the complexities of a Horse Training Contract requires a clear grasp of common misconceptions that might arise. Here are five myths debunked to ensure you have the right information:
All horse training contracts are basically the same. This is a misconception because each trainer and training facility will likely have unique terms and conditions. For instance, the fees, services provided, and the responsibilities of the owner can vary significantly from one contract to another.
Signing a horse training contract limits the owner’s involvement with the training process. In reality, most trainers encourage owner involvement to ensure that the training is effective and meets the owner's expectations. The contract often outlines how the owner can participate and learn from the training sessions.
A horse training contract guarantees specific results. No matter how skilled a trainer is, predicting the exact outcome of horse training is impossible. A contract might state that the trainer agrees to perform all services in accordance with generally accepted professional standards, but it cannot guarantee specific results due to the varying abilities and temperaments of each horse.
If something happens to the horse, the trainer is fully liable. Most contracts include a clause that limits the trainer's liability, stating that they will not be liable for any sickness, disease, or injury suffered by the horse, except in cases of proven negligence. It's crucial for owners to understand the risk involved and consider obtaining insurance for their horses.
Terminating a contract is straightforward and without penalties. This misconception can lead to unexpected costs. If an owner decides to remove a horse from training before the agreed period ends, they might be subject to early termination fees. It’s essential to fully understand the terms regarding changes or termination of the agreement to avoid such surprises.
Clearing up these misconceptions can help owners enter into a Horse Training Contract with the right expectations and understanding, ensuring a more positive and productive experience for both the owner and the trainer.
When it comes to ensuring a successful and legally sound relationship between a horse owner and a trainer, a well-drafted Horse Training Contract is indispensable. Here are key takeaways from such a contract that highlight its importance:
These key points provide a framework ensuring that both the horse owner and trainer enter into the training agreement with a comprehensive understanding of their rights and obligations, promoting a positive and effective training experience for the horse.
Simple Absent Letter for School Because of Sick by Parents - Mitigates the potential for academic penalties due to medically necessary absences by providing formal documentation.
Guardianship Paperwork - An essential form for parents needing to temporarily delegate their parental responsibilities to someone they trust.