THERE may come a time when you need to make alternative arrangements for your horse, but the thought of loaning him to a stranger or selling him may not appeal.

Loaning to a college or university could be the ideal alternative. A number of equine institutions throughout the country take horses on loan, including Hartpury College, Warwickshire and Askham Bryan College.

So how does the process work?

Hartpury College takes in 55 loan horses at the beginning of each academic year, said Tom Hallam, head of equine. They are used for student teaching sessions for both further and higher education students.

The day-to-day care of the horse, includes a tailored exercise plan, diet, bedding and farriery. It is all provided by highly qualified staff and the horses are treated as individuals, allowing an optimum balance between work and relaxation.

Similarly, Warwickshire College takes on loan horses, to be ridden by students enrolled on relevant courses. While at college, the horse is under our custody and control, said Fran Penn, horse unit manager. The horses are always supervised by experienced and qualified staff, and are available for owners during the college holidays, most weekends and other times by negotiation.

Contracts vary, but it is generally expected that the horse will remain at the college for one academic year. They sometimes go home during the student holidays and there is usually a notice period of four weeks for both parties to terminate the contract.

A detailed loan agreement is drafted, to be signed by all parties. The financial arrangements differ between colleges, but owners should expect to pay a small contribution to their horse’s care over the academic year.

All loan horse owners are required to pay a £100 deposit at the beginning of the period, which covers one academic year, Tom said. This covers the costs of worming and vaccinations, but owners are responsible for veterinary costs while the horse is at college. At Warwickshire College, hard feed, forage and bedding costs are covered, but there is a charge towards laundry, saddle fitting, wormers and vaccinations. The owner pays for any regular medications and supplements and it does not fund major vet costs.

All colleges offer different packages, but it could be a good solution for those owners who maybe need a year out for whatever reason, rather than selling their beloved horses.