Important Things You Need To Consider Before Buying A Horse

There can be nothing more exciting for a horse lover than the prospect of owning one yourself. Having said that, the idea of buying a horse can be exciting and nerve-wracking all at the same time. It’s essential that you know what you’re taking on in terms of responsibilities because your horse will need to stay healthy, happy, and well-exercised.

Perhaps you are currently considering equine ownership but are looking for more information before you decide. In this article, we will explore some important factors that should be taken into account before purchasing a horse.

Food Supplies

Horses need sufficient provision of quality food in order to survive and grow. If their diet is unhealthy, it can lead to problems such as malnutrition or weight issues. The owner has to consider their horse’s age, size, breed, etc. before buying the food. For example, a thoroughbred horse would require high protein whereas an Arabian horse may do better with a low protein feed (due to their fast metabolism rates).

There are lots of helpful websites that specialize in things like horse nutrition. You can learn from ForagePlus.co.uk that horse owners always want to find the best quality ingredients and to provide them with sufficient minerals and vitamins. People want to match to grass and hay and read about horse balancers, as well as accessing discounts and online chats.

The Costs

As well as the purchase price, there are expenses for feeding, grooming, stabling, and veterinary care to consider. Additionally, there is the cost of tack – equipment such as saddles or bridles that you will need in order to safely ride your new steed. Plus you’ll need your own riding helmet, boots, and clothes. Some of the costs will depend on the size of the animal and don’t forget things like paying for transportation too. Your annual vet bills will include regular vaccinations, and there will also be farrier shoeing costs every six weeks or so which can quickly add up.

If you are buying a pony these costs will usually come out cheaper than if you were purchasing something bigger like a thoroughbred racehorse. A small Welsh Section C makes up one of the more popular children’s ponies, while Crabbet horses are good all-rounders – making them another great option for kids learning how to ride.

Accommodation

Horses need a safe place to roam and graze and where they will not get injured or killed from falls or other accidents. They must have access to fresh water, grain feed, hay/pasture, grooming supplies, and more. You’ll need to consider whether there is space in your yard for a stable, stall, or barn as well as land suitable for pasture. Find out if there are any laws about owning horses in your area, such as keeping them on public property, required fencing sizes, etc. 

If you don’t have the space and facilities you will need to pay someone to keep the horse on their farm/field/stables. If it is located near your home, will you need to pay to transport the horseback and forth?

Exercise

Horses are powerful animals and exercise is vital to keep them in peak condition and to avoid muscle wastage. Having said that, it doesn’t have to mean spending hours galloping around in an enclosed field. Horses are natural grazers, so if there is grass available they will naturally spend their time eating it throughout the day, using up energy in the process. This can work particularly well for horses kept in paddocks or pastures where grazing opportunities are plentiful all year round.

Riders may choose to include exercise within their routine by riding out on trails through forests or across open fields. This can also help with bonding between humans and animals as both parties explore different surroundings together. Because horses love being out in the open it is important to remember that exercise can also be extremely dangerous. When galloping, jumping or running along trails horses are exposed to potential dangers including other animals, humans and cars. They could result in injuries for both horse and rider so great care should always be taken to supervise proceedings.

You’ll also need to be prepared to do lots of learning about your new horse, and to commit the necessary time for its care. If you choose wisely and buy one that suits your budget and lifestyle, it will be the beginning of a pursuit that brings joy to both yourself and your horse for many years to come.