Tips for new horse owners

Most young girls and boys dream of having a pony. Those dreams include endless riding and fantasies of long days spent full of adventure and freedom. Those dreams can come true, however the reality of that dream can be costly.  For my family the cost of our horses is worth not only the work that the animals do, but also the pleasure they provide for our family. 

• What will the horse be used for?

A horse is much more work than the average family pet. So one needs to give consideration to what the animal will be used for. There are many breeds and uses for a horse. It is best to decide what the your animal will be used for. Throughout history the horse has been used as a means for transportation, now days that isn't as practical. Unless fuel costs keep going up! Some horses including mine are used for pack animals. They are also a means of moving cattle. Best of all they are used to fulfill our childhood dreams, spending time riding for pleasure.

Your individual needs for a horse will help you determine whether to buy a horse that has already been trained or a horse that is in need of training. I believe that if you buy a horse you need to use the animal. Buying a horse and not using the animal is not only very unfair to the horse but is also makes for a very costly lawn ornament. An inexperienced rider should consider a horse that has already been trained. Buying a horse that is ready to ride will lead to a better experience for all involved, and can become a favorite pastime.

• Where will your horse live?

A horse is much larger than say the family dog. Owning a horse requires having ample space or a place to board your animal. As a general rule you will need 1 acre per horse, I personally feel that it is better to have closer to 2. If you already own land or are looking at purchasing land you should check with your local county ordinances. Some states and counties require a minimum of 5 acres per horse. Having enough space for your animal is important to its health and well being.

Not absolutely necessary but recommended is that you have shelter or at least a wind break for your horse. Your needs for shelter will vary with where you live and the climate you live in.

• What will your horse eat?

Hay and Grain is name of this part of the game. If you plan on putting your horse on pasture, you will need to figure out how many months the pasture will last and how many months you will need to feed hay. This will also depend on much land your horse has to graze. On the average a horse eats 500 pounds of hay a month. Hay is usually sold by the ton, so 1 horse will eat 1 ton of hay every 4 months. The price of hay will vary from where you live and from year to year. A ton of hay will cost anywhere from $80.00 to $180.00 a ton. Hay is something you will need to budjet for, making sure you have enough hay to make it through the winter.

Graining your horse is also a consideration. It is not always necesary to grain, however during harsh winters or if your animal has special needs it is best to supplement the hay with grain. The amount of grain given to your animal can be caculated by the horses body weight and the type of grain you are feeding. A salt block in your horses pasture is also recommended. There are also a variety of supplement and vitamin blocks available. It is best to consult your vet to find the best blocks for your animals needs.

Fulfilling your horses nutrition needs will vary, every horse and it's needs are unique. If you have any concerns it is always best to consult your vet.

• Health care for your horse

Your horse just like children need vaccinations. Yearly a horse needs to visit the vet for shots and twice a year your animal will need wormed. A healthy and well exercised animal will be happy and willing.

A farrier is also a person you will need to contact about every six to eight weeks. Even if you choose not to put shoes on your horse, your horse will need to have his hooves trimmed. It is very important to the animals health to take good care of his feet. When choosing a farrier ask for references and at least the first time be present while the farrier works on your horse. A bad trim job can permanently damage your horse's hooves.

     A horse can be a lot of work, but they can bring great joy as well.  A well taken care of horse can be your best friend.  I can honestly say that more than once my horse has saved me from being in a very bad situation.  If you treat your horse with love and respect, your horse will in turn treat you the same.

     On a daily basis my horses bring me joy and I hope that all new horse owners can have the same experience.