Horse Ownership: The Care, Benefits & Costs of Fulfilling Your Dream

If you still haven’t grown out of your childhood pony obsession, buying your own horse is probably something you think about very often. Whether this is something you want to do for relaxation and enjoyment, or you want to win a blue ribbon at the next Royal Melbourne horse show, there are many perks of owning a horse, as well as ongoing expenses.

What Is the Cost of Owning a Horse?

Equestrianism is an expensive hobby, but so are scuba diving, car racing, travelling… First, there is the initial investment of buying a horse. One can vary from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. A horse intended for trail riding and pleasure can cost from 500 to 5000 dollars. Of course, you can pay a lot more if you intend to compete and need an experienced racehorse that is trained. In general, the bigger your expectations for the horse rise, the higher the price.

Apart from the initial investment, there are several other expenses you’ll need to consider. These include feeding, grooming, vet fees, visit to the dentist (horses need their teeth filed down once a year), equipment, clothes (as it’s important to look the part) and horse supplies.

If you are lucky enough to have a green open space where you can keep your horse you can save on house accommodation costs. But if you’re an urban dweller, in order to enjoy the benefits of living in the city and horse riding you’ll have to board your horse nearby on someone else’s property for a certain fee. Horse agistment is an easy alternative, just find the closest local equestrian center so that you can spend more time and work with your horse every day. The average price charged for horse agistment is around several hundred dollars per month.

Since horse ownership entails a range of risks, getting horse insurance is essential in order to protect yourself and your horse in case of unpleasant accidents. A number of factors can influence the cost of your horse insurance premiums, like your horse’s breed, age, gender, the type of policy, and the cost of the horse equipment you want to insure. These details should be discussed with your insurance agency.

Are Horses Hard to Take Care of?

Apart from the costs, horses come with a big responsibility. They are big and demanding animals and take many hours of care each day. As an owner you must be prepared to spend time to feed, water, groom, and exercise the horse regularly for which you will need the right horse supplies.

Where to Buy Horse Supplies?

Look for local tack shops or check online stores for an extensive range of horse products designed to help you properly take care of your equine. You will need items like brush and comb for grooming, feeding supplements and treats, large buckets, lead ropes and a first-aid-kit in case of emergency. You can purchase these supplies ahead of time, so they’re waiting for your horse when it arrives.

Boarding your horse in a full-service board is less time consuming and more convenient if you don’t have the experience to look after your horse. Apart from accommodation, these centers offer extra services like feeding, washing, and training.

Apart from taking care of your horse’s needs, you’ll need quality equipment for your own safety and comfort while in the saddle. Buying the appropriate horse riding apparel like a helmet, a pair of stretchy riding jodhpurs or breeches and riding shoes is a must.

What Are the Benefits of Horse Riding?

Although horses can cost a lot of time and money, owning one is a rewarding experience no doubt. Horse riding is a fun activity and a source of enjoyment – a ride through the woods is a great way to forget your worries about school, money, or work whereas participating in horse racing and shows, offers unique benefits both socially and professionally.

Also, horse riding is a great form of physical exercise. It improves coordination, increases your strength and helps tone your muscles. Other advantages include the prevention of muscle cramps, boosting the cardiovascular system, improving blood circulation, better visual perception and increased self-confidence. Spending time with horses, and caring for them can also teach you about responsibility and dedication.

Finally, being able to ride whenever you wish is also one of the many benefits of horse ownership.