Unfortunately, most of the equestrian centers throughout the United States, whether private residences or public stables, do not put much effort toward horse theft prevention. Although the chances of your horses being stolen are admittedly low, it never hurts to take precautions.
Install a Gate
The entrance to your equestrian property is your weakest point of vulnerability. This is where horse thieves will gain access to your most valuable investments, and it pays to invest in high-tech security. Although an armed guard would probably qualify as overkill, a computerized gate is a good idea.
Not only will this help prevent horse theft, but a gate also restricts access if you'd like to keep your equestrian property more private. Visitors will have to make an appointment before showing up, and your clients (if you run a public business) will feel safer knowing their horses, tack and other equipment are protected.
A computerized gate to prevent horse theft should require an alphanumerical code (changed often) or a key card to open. The best gates are those made of wrought iron or similar material.
Light Your Property
Landscape lighting isn't expensive—either in up-front investment or in energy usage—and this is an excellent way to discourage would-be horse thieves. It is easier to sneak onto equestrian property under the cloak of darkness than to try to load a trailer while exposed by bright light.
Large, industrial lamps in your parking lot and landscape lighting around the barn and other structures will be sufficient. You might also want to leave a few lights blazing in the barn and the tack room to suggest that owners are in residence.
Keep an Eye Out
One of the best ways to prevent horse theft is to have someone living on equestrian property full time. It doesn't matter if they are owners, barn managers, stable help or even renters, so long as their vehicles are parked in the lot and their lights are on at night.
If no one is available to live on site, however, you can discourage horse thieves by installing security cameras on the premises. Cameras aren't expensive to buy or maintain, and you don't need the latest in video technology. It is best to keep a few cameras visible to deter horse thieves, then a few that are hidden just in case the visible cameras are destroyed.
Prepare for the Worst
Despite all of the security measures you implement to prevent horse theft, it is entirely possible that horse thieves will penetrate your defenses and rob you of your animals. Knowing that this is a potential scenario, make preparations to mitigate your loss.
For example, each of your horses should have Coggins reports filed in the barn. Make sure you've correctly noted each horse's color, markings and distinguishing features so you can give an adequate description to the authorities.
You can also purchase horse theft insurance. This way, if your horse is stolen from your equestrian property, you can file a claim and be compensated for the value of the animal. Of course, you should evaluate your options carefully; more expensive horses will most likely warrant insurance.
And finally, horse theft isn't your only worry. Consider also the value of your saddles, bridles, farm equipment and other valuables that could be stolen. Keep receipts for each item you purchase along with detailed descriptions in case you need to file an insurance claim.
