The Maryland Horse Industry Board (MHIB), a program within the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDS), has released the state’s first Official Guide to Maryland’s Licensed Stables, a 96-page directory that details places to ride, learn to ride, or watch horses. Nearly 400 of the state’s 600 licensed stables opted to be included in the full-color directory which is free to the public, while supplies last.

"The guide focuses on the citizen rider: the recreationalist who just wants to enjoy a horse, the fresh air, and quality family time, even if they don’t own a horse or want to own a horse," said Ross Peddicord, MHIB executive director. "Folks ask us all the time where they can go to become acquainted with horses or to learn how to ride. This directory gives them specific stables to visit, a detailed description of their services and amenities, where they are located and their contact information. These stables are the ticket to enjoying horses in Maryland."

The guide contains maps of each county, indicating where the stables are located. The guide also lists stables by category, indicating whether the stable offers boarding, rentals for guided trail rides, lessons, therapeutic riding, etc. The guide includes information for the beginner who has never been on a horse to the advanced equestrian. It also includes a list of premier events for those who are interested in attending a spectator event, as well as directions, provided by the Maryland Department of Transportation, on scenic byways where people can experience a drive through areas largely dedicated to horses.

Horse stables that solicit business from the public are required, by law, to be inspected and licensed by MHIB to ensure they are providing minimum standards of care for their horses and safety for riders. Those standards–which include definitions of "necessary veterinary care" and descriptions of proper fencing and protection–are detailed in the guide