The Real Cost of Horse Ownership

Horse ownership is rewarding but also expensive. Besides the initial cost of purchasing a horse, you also have to keep in mind the costs of caring for the horse over their lifetime. A horse relies on their owner to care and provide for them. Before buying a horse, it is important that you understand the real cost of horse ownership.

Cost Associated With Owning a Horse

With horses, a lot of costs will be due to the horse’s routine needs. Boarding a horse can cost anywhere from $300 to $3,000 a month, depending on the services provided. Board typically includes food, water, shelter, and basic care, but other costs may come up for additional services provided. Your horse will also have to see a farrier or trimmer approximately every six weeks for routine hoof care. Discuss with your veterinarian any vaccinations, medications, or supplements that your horse may need regularly. 

If you aren’t boarding your horse, then you will need to buy the feed and other supplies needed to sustain your horse on your property. A horse also needs equipment, a stable, and grooming. 

With horses, unexpected costs can arise at any moment. Your horse may need emergency veterinarian care, the cost of boarding may go up, or the price of hay could go up drastically. As a horse owner, you should always have a plan in case an emergency does happen and you need to spend a lot of money to fix the problem. 

Alongside the costs of caring for the horse, you also have to factor in the human costs associated with owning a horse, if you are planning on riding or driving the horse. Plan on buying a helmet, gloves, breeches or jeans, and a boot or shoe with a low wedge heel. You also may need to have lessons to learn how to properly ride, drive, or handle your horse. If you are going to be showing the horse, there will be costs associated with the trailer, coaching, office, and class fees.

Understanding What it Means to be a Horse Owner

While owning a horse may seem like an expensive endeavor, there can be different levels of costs associated depending on the type of care you want to provide your horse. But the bottom line is that you have a responsibility to provide the horse with a safe and healthy home to live in. Before you buy a horse, make sure that you understand the financial involvement that accompanies horse ownership. The best way to prepare for being a horse owner is by making a realist long-term budget.