How to Prepare for Horse Ownership

Preparing for horse ownership can seem overwhelming. By planning ahead, you can purchase your first horse with confidence knowing you have the right supplies, contacts and financial plans. Some supplies, like hoof picks, are needed by all horse owners, some items will be unique to your chosen breed and discipline. Financial commitment will vary by location, individual horse, discipline and level of interest.

Things You'll Need

  • Halter
  • Lead line
  • Buckets
  • Brushes
  • Hoof picks
  • Riding/driving gear
  • Tack (bridle, saddle, driving harness)
  • Feed
  • Bedding
Show More

Instructions

  1. Stables and Supplies

    • 1
      A sturdy barn with access to pasture makes a great home for a horse.

      Find living arrangements for your horse. This may be in the form of a high-end boarding facility, a nearby farm or your own property. First-time owners are generally discouraged from keeping a horse at home, until they have some experience. Horses are herd animals so choose a facility where your horse can be around other horses or livestock.

    • 2
      Saddles, bridles, harnesses, bits and saddle pads are known as tack.

      Purchase horse supplies. These include buckets, feed, halters, lead lines, blankets, hoof picks, grooming supplies like brushes, shampoos and fly-sprays; plus tack and riding gear. A helmet is an important piece of equestrian equipment. All equestrians are encouraged to use a helmet while riding by the American Riding Instructors Association.

    • 3
      A farrier will trim and shoe your horse every six to eight weeks.

      Develop contacts with the professionals you'll be using. Most important are a veterinarian and farrier (who will trim hooves and put shoes on your horse) and a horse dentist if this service is not provided by your veterinarian. Call for prices and create a contact list. Some horse owners also use the services of equine chiropractors and acupuncturists.

    Finances

    • 4

      Develop your monthly budget. If you plan on boarding, contact the stable to find out the monthly price and what this includes. In addition to board, you may need to purchase your own feed and bedding. Consider fuel costs if you'll be driving more than a few miles to see your horse. Add extra money into the budget for surprise costs like thrown shoes.

    • 5

      Create a yearly budget. In addition to monthly care, you'll need money for veterinary care once or twice a year, dentistry once or twice a year and farrier fees at least six times per year. You will also need to provide an anti-parasite treatment (wormer) several times per year. By planning ahead, you can spread these costs out.

    • 6

      Get a credit card specifically for horse emergencies. Don't use this card for any other purpose. Horses seem to need emergency veterinary care when your budget is tightest or when you're on vacation and must pay for service by phone.

    • 7

      Calculate a cash budget to pay for your new horse. Do not approach a seller until you know how much money you can spend. Remember your budget as you shop. A senior horse may cost less up front, but require more veterinary care; while young horses may need additional funds for training.

    • 8

      Ask about health records. When you choose your horse, get vaccination records, contact info for current farrier and any other health information. Know what immediate requirements this horse has before you bring it to its new home.