8.   How often are water buckets emptied and cleaned?

9.   If freezing temp area; do horses have heated water?

10. Can you use your own farrier?

11. Will barn staff hold horse for farrier or do you have to be there?

12.  Are vet calls "shared" for routine vaccinations etc.?

13.  If there are arenas - what hours are they available?

14.  Are lessons given that prevent boarders from using arena(s)? And, what days and hours is the barn "open"

15.  Have they had any horses colic in past 12 months? how was it handled? do they know what caused the colic? Will they call vet even if they cannot get hold of you, for emergencies? (colic, founder stance, gash or other injury)

Look at fencing - does it look safe? Is there perimeter fencing? can horses play halter tag over fence or is there hot wire? Does it appear that repairs are made in a timely fashion?

Do you have a place to lock up your tack? Are reasonable precautions taken to prevent pests / dogs / birds from causing problems and/or illness?