Having a horse to love and care for is one of the most rewarding things you could ever experience. Horses are hard workers, loving companions, and fun and beautiful creatures. If you’re thinking about buying a horse of your own, then you probably know all of this already. But the idea of owning a horse and the reality of it are often two very different things.
Horse ownership may come with a long list of benefits, but it also comes with a lot of cost, time, and responsibility on your part. If you’re prepared for it, then getting your own horse is one of the most joyful and satisfying things you’ll ever do. If you’re not prepared, it could be one of the most disastrous. Before you take the plunge, ask yourself these questions below to determine if you’re ready to own a horse!
Can I afford to care for a horse?
Even if you’ve saved up enough money for the initial purchase price of the horse you want, equine care costs are ongoing and can be expensive. Factoring in just their basic needs, such as food, water, supplements, and regular farrier and vet care, the average minimum cost of keeping a horse each year comes in at just over $1800. Then you also have to factor in the cost of tack, shelter or boarding, training, and be financially prepared for any emergencies that could arise.
Do I know how to keep a horse happy and healthy?
When you fully own a horse, all the responsibility of properly taking care of them falls to you. You will need to maintain a healthy and comfortable living space for them, feed them a nutritious diet with the right supplements, exercise them several times per week, groom them, train them, and keep up with their veterinary needs.
Buying a horse is not just a one-time adjustment, but an entire lifestyle change. Before you make your decision, make sure you do plenty of research into what it takes to care for a horse, or have experienced friends and/or professionals to help you get started.
Am I prepared for a long-term commitment?
How long have you been interested in owning a horse, or horses in general? Do you have experience riding one or leasing one part-time? Or has this just been a fantasy in your head?
A horse of your own is a lifetime commitment—you must care for them either until they’re gone or you decide to sell them, in which case you still need to care for them until you find a good home. If you think your desire to own a horse may just be a phase, you need to wait until you’re 100% sure you’re ready to make the commitment.
Where will I keep a horse?
Getting a horse is not like bringing home a new cat or dog who will just hang around your house. Horses need their own shelter that is clean, comfortable, and will protect them from the elements and potential danger. If you buy a horse, you need to be prepared to find a suitable boarding facility, where you know your horse will be well-cared for in your absence. Or, better yet, you can consider investing in a horse barn for your own property. Either way, you need to be ready for the costs and upkeep of either option.
Do I have enough riding experience?
You should be comfortable working with, handling, and riding a horse before you consider becoming a horse owner. Horses need to be trained and exercised on a regular basis, which often means riding or at least turning them out daily. If you’re still learning, consult with your trainer before you buy a horse. They can help you determine which breeds and sizes would be ideal for your current and expected skill level.
If you don’t have the time or skill necessary to exercise your horse everyday (or board them at a facility that will), you shouldn’t own one.
Have you asked yourself all the questions above and feel confident that you’re ready to take on horse ownership? Get ready for the arrival of your special friend with a horse barn from Deer Creek Structures! Our pre-built portable horse barns and stables are long-lasting structures built to keep your horses safe and comfortable for their lifetime.
For more information about our prefab barns, customizations, and other structures, give us a call at 254-546-2276 today!