A Canadian Horse Lease Agreement is a legally binding contract that establishes the terms and conditions under which a horse owner (Lessor) temporarily transfers possession and use of a horse to another party (Lessee) for a specified period and fee. Unlike a sale, a horse lease does not transfer ownership; the Lessor retains full title to the horse throughout the lease term. This arrangement is common in the Canadian equestrian community for riders who want to use a horse for lessons, competitions, trail riding, or breeding without the full financial commitment of purchase.

Horse leases in Canada are governed by provincial contract law and common law principles. The agreement must satisfy the basic requirements of a valid contract: offer, acceptance, consideration (typically a monthly lease fee), and the intention to create legal relations. Provincial animal welfare legislation also applies to horse leases, as the party with custody and control of the animal has a legal obligation to provide adequate care. In Ontario, the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act (PAWS Act, S.O. 2019, c. 13) sets minimum standards of care for animals. In Alberta, the Animal Protection Act (R.S.A. 2000, c. A-41) imposes similar obligations. British Columbia's Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (R.S.B.C. 1996, c. 372) also establishes care requirements.

The equestrian industry in Canada is regulated in part by Equestrian Canada (EC), the national governing body. If the horse is registered with EC or a provincial equestrian federation, the lease arrangement may need to comply with specific registry rules regarding possession and competition eligibility. A well-drafted horse lease agreement protects both parties by clearly defining responsibilities for care, veterinary expenses, insurance, permitted activities, and the process for returning the horse at the end of the lease.

A Canadian Horse Lease Agreement is needed whenever a horse owner wishes to temporarily transfer possession and use of their horse to another person. This is a common arrangement in the equestrian community across Canada and serves various purposes. Riders who are not ready or able to purchase a horse outright can lease one for training, competition, or recreational riding. Horse owners who are temporarily unable to ride (due to injury, travel, or other commitments) can lease their horse to ensure it continues to receive proper care and exercise.

The agreement is particularly important in competitive equestrian settings, where the lessee may wish to compete on the horse at shows sanctioned by Equestrian Canada or provincial equestrian federations. The lease agreement establishes the lessee's right to enter the horse in competitions and clarifies who is responsible for entry fees, transportation costs, and show-related expenses. Full leases grant exclusive use of the horse, while half leases share use between the owner and the lessee.

A written agreement is essential to avoid disputes over care standards, veterinary costs, and liability for injuries. Under provincial occupiers' liability legislation, such as Ontario's Occupiers' Liability Act (R.S.O. 1990, c. O.2) and Alberta's Occupiers' Liability Act (R.S.A. 2000, c. O-4), the owner or occupier of the facility where the horse is kept may have liability for injuries to persons on the premises. The lease agreement should address assumption of risk, as horseback riding is an inherently risky activity.

An effective Canadian Horse Lease Agreement must include several essential elements. The agreement must clearly identify both parties (Lessor and Lessee) by full legal name and address. The horse must be described in sufficient detail to be uniquely identified, including registered name, breed, age, colour, markings, and registration number with Equestrian Canada or the applicable breed registry.

The lease term must specify clear start and end dates, along with the monthly lease fee in Canadian dollars and the payment schedule. The agreement should state where the horse will be kept during the lease, and require the Lessee to obtain written consent before moving the horse to any other location. The permitted use of the horse must be clearly defined, whether for trail riding, lessons, competitions, breeding, or other activities.

The agreement must allocate responsibility for the horse's care, including feeding, shelter, farrier services, routine veterinary care, and emergency veterinary treatment. It is critical to specify whether the Lessee has authority to approve emergency veterinary treatment without prior consent from the Lessor, as delays in treatment can have serious welfare consequences. Insurance responsibilities must be clearly stated, covering both mortality and liability insurance.

The agreement should include an assumption of risk clause acknowledging the inherent dangers of handling and riding horses, and an indemnification clause protecting the Lessor from liability for injuries to the Lessee or third parties. The ownership clause must clearly state that the Lessor retains full ownership throughout the lease. Termination provisions should specify the notice period required and the process for returning the horse. The governing law clause should reference the applicable provincial law.