If you have a passion for horses or animals in general, you likely don’t need another reason to expand your family of pets. However, owning a horse offers significant health benefits beyond companionship that may surprise you. Caring for a horse can positively impact your overall wellness, from physical fitness to mental well-being.
Here are three key ways horse ownership can enhance your health, making it a wonderful investment!
1) Owning a Horse Keeps You Active
Being responsible for one of these gorgeous creatures is no easy task! Chances are, if you’re interested in owning a horse, you’ve got some horseback riding under your belt. It’s no surprise to you then that riding is a great exercise that constantly challenges you. You must continuously use your muscles to stay on and guide the horse—especially your legs and core.
If riding’s not your thing, you’ll still find yourself burning calories from all the care your horse requires. Regular tasks like grooming, cleaning, maintaining their living space, and other barn chores will help you work up a sweat in no time! Even simply walking out to the barn every day is a great way to exercise.
2) Improve Your Mental Health
Interacting with animals has been proven to reduce stress levels by decreasing blood pressure and stress hormone levels. Spending time with your horse can be a solace from the pressures and obligations of everyday life that sometimes weigh on your mind.
Owning a horse also serves as a natural mood booster! The physical activity that a horse entails, the time spent in fresh air, and the self-confidence you gain from improving riding skills and caring for another living creature all foster a positive mindset. As a bonus, the problem-solving skills and creativity you sometimes have to use to keep your horse happy and healthy will sharpen your mind, too.
3) Horses Help You Develop Socially
You can build a meaningful connection with your animal as a horse owner. Regular interactions with a living creature are a fun and natural way to practice social bonding.
Watch your social circle grow when you get a horse of your own from forming relationships with other horse owners and lovers! You’ll meet many new people as you get involved in the equine community through riding lessons, events, and other clubs and activities that bring horses and their owners together.
Show your horse how much you love and appreciate everything they contribute to your life with a beautiful place for them to call home. At Deer Creek Structures, we have a wide selection of pre-built sheds, barns, and stables available to choose from or customize yourself! Contact us today at (254)546-2276 to find one that fits your needs so you can start reaping the benefits of horse ownership.