Horse Talk – Is Owning a Horse Right for You?
Horses are beautiful, sensitive creatures, and many people dream of owning one from a young age. There is no doubt that horse ownership can be one of the most rewarding and thrilling endeavors to pursue. However, along with that ideal comes a reality of significant time, effort, resources and commitment required to keep your horse in great condition. The need for farriers, vets, nutrition, feed, exercise and myriad other requirements is a very real part of horse ownership. So, before you saddle up and ride off into the sunset, it’s getting the full picture of what’s involved so you can make the most informed decision as to whether owning one of these majestic creatures is right for you.
Hoof Health
Staying on top of hoof health will require you to enlist the help of a farrier, and gaining a solid grasp of hoof care and maintenance. Even with revolutionary products such as equine hoof boots, horses still need a lot of your time, effort, money to ensure that their hooves are in top condition. Hoof problems are associated with numerous other equine diseases and physical issues, so it’s crucial to stay on top of this. Even if you learn how to trim and shoe your horse’s hooves yourself, you’ll still need the farrier to visit numerous times per year.
General Health
If you find the bill for your cat or dog’s annual health check-up hard to stomach, then just wait until your horse’s vet sends you theirs. The cost for a horse’s clean bill of health can be substantial. Horses require shots twice per year, worming every two months, in addition to regular dental health maintenance and treatment. Some veterinarians recommend acupuncture and chiropractors for certain health issues, which can further exacerbate the costs. One look into your horse’s eyes will tell you everything you need to know about their level intelligence and emotional sophistication. With that in mind, providing anything but the best of medical care will never be an option, whatever the expense.
Space Requirements
One of the most important considerations is whether you have the space that a horse needs. Our equine friends require between one and a half to two acres of land. Each state may also have set space requirements, meaning you need to provide an adequate amount of land for both exercising and foraging.
If you had plans to keep your horse in your suburban backyard, you might be disappointed to know that isn’t possible. Instead, you may need to opt for a boarding stable. There are two main types of boarding institutions – one that cares for your horse’s every need – such as stall cleaning, feeding, and maintenance, and one that just houses the horse, and you take care of the rest. Boarding rates can differ, but it’s helpful if the facility you opt for is within a short driving distance, to make the idea of horse ownership feasible for you.
Equipment
Before you invest in a horse, it’s helpful to price up the items you’ll need to get started, and will need going forward. Your horse will require a bridle, saddle, grooming supplies, fly spray, blankets, and quality feed. You will also need to consider supplements, as the older the horse gets, the more nutrients it will need. To keep costs manageable, it’s worth looking into Natural Remedies That Work, and choosing supplements and medicines that are natural and cost-effective. These can help keep your horse healthy without breaking the bank.
Horse ownership is exceptionally rewarding, and any horse owner can tell you that with a hand on heart. But they will also let you know how challenging it can be, as well as how much hard work is required. Do your research, talk to horse owners, and get all the information you need when assessing whether horse ownership is right for you.