After collecting a list of facilities that are convenient for you to travel to, call and make appointments to check the areas with the manager or owner. It may take some of your time, but inspecting everything first hand with keep you at ease, knowing the facilities in the end.
The first thing to do when you get to the boarding stable is to talk with the owner/manager. Ask a lot of questions about their years and experience riding and caring for horses. A very good sign is if they are relaxed, friendly and very open in answering your questions.
The second thing, which is very important to do on your own, is to be very observant to the things around you. Check the fields and surrounding area, making sure everything is neat and clean. Check the stables carefully to see if it is in top condition for your horse. Ask the owner any questions you may have about maintenance, feeding and care.
The third thing to look out for is the condition of the existing horses at the stables. Check their overall health and appearance. Keep a mental note about sickly or nervous looking horses, dull coats and unusual manners. If they all look happy and healthy, its a very good sign that they are well cared for.
The fourth thing to consider when choosing boarding stables is the feeding and nutrition of the horses. Make sure you know how and when the horses are fed, what they are fed and talk about any concerns or requests that you may have.
The fifth and final point to consider is about veterinary care. When the horses need care and checkups, you need reassurance that help is close by. Ask the owner if there is someone who regularly visits or stays at the stable grounds. If no one is available, its a very good idea to move on with your search!