11/25/2025
It took me 16 years of owning this farm to accept the realities of delinquent clients…in the early years of owning this farm I thought I was helping the horses I love and the people “fallen on hard times” but what I’ve come to recognize is that consistent delinquency is an energy and bank account sucking total lack of respect, responsibility and accountability.
it’s not just about the money, it’s the entitlement, the lack of planning and the over extending and then it’s the lies that come with the “justifications”…those characteristics don’t look cute on the back of a horse either…
These type of clients who can’t seem to manage their finances often times are standing in their own way when it comes to their goals and when the rubber meets the road they often times try to pass the buck. The horse’s performance or lack there of is often a direct reflection of irresponsible piloting.
Being a great rider, horseman and human requires a deeper level of self reflection, reliability, empathy and discipline. The above will make you a good client as well.
Sadly, l’ve come to expect the poor behaviors to be exasperated when services are suspended or clients are asked to relocate.
Barn owners—it’s our job to see the manipulation and exterminate it so it doesn’t disturb the peace or contribute to burn out! Nothing worse than making your money and then having to chase it.
To the good clients—sorry you have to endure the procedures we need to protect ourselves from the “bad ones.”
By Armand Leone & Jessica Choper What’s The Stableman’s Lien? A state law that allows a stable owner to keep possession of a horse whose owner has not paid for boarding and other services that are owed. It is used to prevent the horse from leaving the property until the indebtedness is satisfied...