Do you think you're ready
to own your own horse? If you are still inexperienced when it comes
to horse management you may want to consider the following:
| • |
Horses are expensive
- Boarding a horse at a facility will cost you at least $400
a month for your horse to live in a box stall. There's what
considered "rough board" where the horse stays out in the paddock
24hours a day. Board fees don't always include feed or bedding.
|
| • |
Shows - If
you plan to show consider show clothing, tack, entry fees, and
transportation expense.
Owning a horse isn't just about paying for it. One thing you'll
need more than money is time. Spending time with your horse
once a month and letting him/her sit in the dust the rest of
the month won't allow you and your horse to bond. Don't get
a horse just because you have the money or it would make a nice
lawn ornament. Adopt a horse because you want to give it love,
and affection and create a bond that will last forever.
|
| • |
Feed - If
you are keeping your horse on your own property you must keep
your pastures maintained and you need to pay for hay and/or
grain. Horses benefit from supplements too. Your veterinarian
can guide you to good nutrition.
|
| • |
Bedding -
If you are responsible for cleaning your horse's stall, it needs
to be cleaned and bedded daily. Manure disposal is part of this
process.
|
| • |
Veterinarian
- Regular health care for a horse includes vaccinations, teeth
floating several times a year, and deworming. Emergency fees
for an injured or sick horse are possible and could include
surgery.
|
| • |
Shoes - Most
horses wear shoes so you can expect a farrier visit every 6
to 8 weeks. A hoof trim is needed even if no shoes are worn.
|
| • |
Insurance
- You may choose to insure your horse. Some of the kinds of
insurance you can purchase are medical, morality, and liability.
|
| • |
Training/lessons
- The price of an average riding lesson is $35. As your skills
improve, additional lessons from a professional will be needed.
In addition, you may decide to pay a trainer if there are issues
with control or temperament of the horse.
|
Home
