The Stable is the Place – where everyone is welcome

We wish to ensure that everyone feels welcome in the equestrian world – as well as in the stables. In this article, we will give you some tips on how to make the atmosphere pleasant and welcoming for everyone in the stable.

There are many reasons why the atmosphere in the stable is important. A thing to keep in mind is that the stable should be a safe space and is like a second home to many. Some people might feel it is a place where they can fully be themselves and not hide anything. The stable has this unique ability, and we hope it will remain this way. 

However, this is not the case for everyone. There are cases where the opposite is true and where equestrians do not feel at home or welcome in their stables. This may cause unpleasant feelings of jealousy, teasing, bullying, and competitiveness. But here at Malgré Tout, we think the love and passion for the horses should be at the forefront in the stables. 

A place for everyone

As the equestrian sport is open to everyone, it is essential that people are open-minded and interested in talking and engaging with people who may be different from themselves. A stable can accommodate great diversity, which is a great opportunity. Take the chance and get to know the other people. Always stay curious and be ready to form new relationships. If you keep this in mind, you may make a friend for life.

In it together

One of the great benefits of creating relations with the other people in your stable is if you are doing something where you feel a bit uncertain. For instance, if you are attending a competition or your horse is going to the vet, you will have people you feel safe with around you. Maybe it allows you to open up and share your fear or anxiety. They may be able to guide you so that you will feel more safe in the given situation.

What can you do as a stable owner?

If you run a stable and have general responsibility, keeping these things in mind is a good idea.

• Create 'stable rules' that describe the desired stable behavior – for example: make sure the place is neat.
• When looking for new agisters, you should ensure they understand and agree with the stable rules.
• It can be a good idea to have possible newcomers come by the stable and to test if you get along.
• Make sure to treat everyone equally.
• Explain to people in the stable that they can come to you if they have issues.
• If someone raises a problem, make sure to act on it.
• Consider stable meetings once in a while, where you can discuss everything.
• Consider planning other activities the riders can do together besides riding.
• Be a good example and demonstrate good behavior, such as keeping a pleasant tone, greeting everyone, and keeping the stable tidy.

What can you do as a rider in the stable?

If you are a rider or horse owner in the stable, remember that you also have some responsibility. Therefore, you should remember these things when you go to the stable.

• Make sure to follow the stable rules.
• Include everyone in activities or chats.
• Greet everyone with a smile.
• Remember that you never know what somebody else is going through – so always be kind.
• Respect people's boundaries.
• Do not use other people's things – only if you have their permission. If you make a mistake, be honest about it.
• If you, for instance, break something that is not yours, tell the owner and apologize.
• Respect other people's ways of doing things.
• Remember that even though we all wish the best for our horses, it is not always your place to correct people, if they haven't asked for your advice. So, before you speak your mind, ask yourself if it is okay.
• Help out with practical work in the stable and clean up after yourself.
• Note to always say hello and goodbye to people in the stable.
• If you do not feel like the others are treating you appropriately in the stable, try to talk to the owner about it.
• If you notice someone struggling, ask if you can help.

Thank you to Natasha Møller for allowing us to use Kumlegaard for the photoshoot.  

Location link: https://kumlegaard.dk