 Owning A Horse What are the responsibilities in owning a horse, what is the basic care required and what facilities are involved?

Horse Ownership is Popular:  Increases about 7% annually  Estimated 9.2 million horses in the U.S.  Impact to economy including suppliers and employees estimated at $102 billion in the U.S.

Why own a horse?  Pleasure riding is top reason  Show  Breeding  Work  Racing  You must decide:  Investment or recreation?

Is it worth it to me?  Look at your interest, resources, time and purpose for horse ownership  Spend time to see if your interest lasts  Are you ready to take on the work, costs and responsibilities?

Ownership alternatives  Riding lessons  Leasing  These options allow you to gain experience for future ownership

Where to keep your horse?  At home  Convenient  Consider room, zoning, riding areas, time  On rented pasture  Separates horse from owner’s care  Costs and services may vary  At a commercial stable  Many services available  May be costly

What is involved in care?  Shelter  Feed  Water  Health care & Maintenance  Hoof care  Deworming  Vaccination  Dental care

Where to find a horse?  Start with local breeders  Trainers may have connections  Auction – may be risky  Boarding stables  Classified ads  Veterinarians

Things to think about:  Pre-purchase examination  Type of activity desired  Your skill and handling abilities  Age of horse  Horse’s training and breeding

What about costs?  Initial purchase price  Costs to keep and maintain the horse  Saddles, halters, bridles, grooming supplies, etc.  Facilities, water, shelter, stalls, tack room  Feed, health care, foot care, etc.

Nutritional Factors  Size of animal  Environment  Age of horse  Type of activity or use  Metabolic rate  Activity level

Feeding requirements:  Regular feeding twice daily  Adequate, clean, fresh water  Good quality feed  Pastures fertilized, free of noxious weed  Hay clean, free of dust and mold

More necessities:  Space for daily exercise  Regular veterinary care for vaccination, deworming and general health needs  Hoof care at least every 2 months  Dental care at least once a year

Some equipment needs  Basics for comfort and control:  Saddle  Bridle  Saddle pad  Lead rope  Halter  Basics for care and well-being:  Blanket  Hoof pick  Brush  Curry comb