Purchasing and caring for a horse may be challenging during tough economic times. Following are ideas to consider that may make the situation more tolerable:
- Consider borrowing, leasing, or sharing a horse. Some horse owners are willing to share a horse that isn’t being used much but are not willing to sell it. This also gives you a chance to see just how interested in having a horse your family is.
- Attend clinics put on by more experienced horseman to learn how to ride and care for your horse rather than having a personal trainer or consultant.
- Acquire used tack and equipment at tack swaps or auctions rather than purchasing only new equipment. Some equipment can be shared with other area horse owners.
- Schedule health and hoof care events for horse owners in your area or club to avoid paying call fees for someone to come out just for your horse.
- Consider giving your own vaccinations and dewormers.
- Consider using electric wire or tape or wire panels to confine your horses rather than pipe or wood fencing.
- Feed only the nutrients your horses need. Over feeding can be just as detrimental to your horse’s health as underfeeding.
- Buying grain in bulk can be cheaper than buying bagged grain.
- Purchase hay when it is the cheapest such as during the summer right out of the field.
- Feeding round bales of hay is much more economical if you have the equipment to haul, unload, and feed them.
- Utilize pastures and exercise lots effectively to reduce purchased hay and bedding usage.
- Shoe your horse only when needed. Most horses don’t need to be shod but you should still maintain proper hoof care.
