Ever wonder what your horse’s day actually looks like while you’re not at the barn? Consistent, predictable routine is one of the most important — and most underrated — parts of good horse care. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at a typical day for a boarded horse at Licciardello Stables.

Early Morning: Feeding & Water Checks

The day starts early with the first feeding of hay and grain, along with a check of each stall’s water buckets — filled fresh and topped off three times throughout the day. Horses are creatures of habit, and a consistent morning routine helps set a calm tone for the rest of the day.

Mid-Morning: Turnout Time

After breakfast, horses head out to their paddocks for turnout — time to stretch their legs, graze, and simply be a horse outside the confines of a stall. Our turnouts include shade and automatic waterers, giving horses a comfortable place to relax even during Florida’s warmer months.

Midday: Training & Riding

For horses in active training or lesson programs, midday is often when riding happens — whether that’s a scheduled lesson, a training session with one of our instructors, or conditioning work in one of our three arenas. For boarded horses whose owners come to ride, this is also prime time for owners to visit and spend time in the saddle.

Afternoon: Grooming & Ground Time

Between rides, horses often get grooming attention — brushing, hoof checks, and general handling that keeps them comfortable and helps our team monitor for any changes in health or behavior. This hands-on time is also where horses build trust and familiarity with our staff.

Evening: Second Feeding & Stall Care

As the day winds down, horses come in for their second feeding of hay and grain. Stalls are cleaned and fresh shavings added as needed — a task we handle seven days a week, without exception, to keep every stall clean and comfortable.

Overnight: Rest

With a full belly, a clean stall, and fresh water, horses settle in for the night, ready to do it all again the next day.

Why Routine Matters

Horses thrive on consistency. A predictable daily rhythm reduces stress, supports healthy digestion, and makes it easier for our team to notice quickly if something seems off with a horse’s appetite, behavior, or condition. It’s one of the quiet but essential benefits of full-service boarding.

See It for Yourself

The best way to understand our daily care standards is to see them in person. Contact us or call (813) 951-1690 to schedule a tour of our Lutz, FL facility.