Are You Considering Owning a Horse? Some Factors to Weigh Beforehand

The grace, beauty, speed, and proud, regal bearing that horses possess have made them the dream pets of millions. They are also probably the most challenging domesticated animals to take care of. Anyone sincerely interested in owning a horse should consider whether or not they can meet the costs and the time commitment involved.

It's a good idea to learn more about these animals by volunteering at a horse rescue organization or by spending time at a riding stable before making the decision to buy one. Horses are also sometimes available for lease (for six months or more), and other owners might be willing to share the care of their own animals with you. Spending time around horses will also get you acquainted with various breeds (there are about 350) and the different activities that they excel at.

Horses are expensive, and this is only a portion of the overall cost of owning one. You'll need a good sized pasture within which it can run, as well as grooming equipment, buckets for feed and water, and feed storage barrels. Horses live on two kinds of feed: roughage (such as hay) and grain. Pasture grass is an ideal source of roughage; otherwise, dry feed is suitable. Good quality hay (like alfalfa) will be pale or bright green in color and smell fresh and sweet. Commercial horse feeds consist of several crushed grains - such as oats, corn, and barley - mixed together with molasses. Horses need a salt or mineral block for added nourishment, and apples and carrots make good special treats for them.

Special brushes are needed to groom horses, and this will need to be done before and after each day's activities. Their feet also need to be cleaned every day with a hoof pick. The services of a farrier will probably be required for shoeing your horse; a farrier will also know how often its hooves should be trimmed. Whether you keep your horse in an outdoor stall or a spacious shed, the shelter should be cleaned - and its bedding changed -every day.

Some of the other expenses involved include health care and emergencies. At the very least, a veterinarian should visit a horse once a year for checkups. Be prepared to respond quickly to emergencies: horses can get sick and die very quickly. A horse that refuses to eat, goes limp, kicks at its stomach, or lies down and tries to roll over, is most likely exhibiting signs of illness.

If you feel that owning a horse is well worth the work and expense (and for many people it assuredly is), then a good next step would be to talk to people who have experience in caring for them. They might be able to steer you to places where you can find a horse that fits your needs. Horse-rescue groups and humane societies that handle large animals can also be helpful. Be wary of horse auctions, bargains in the classified ads, and/ or anyone who is eager to sell you a horse for cheap. A beautiful animal will not necessarily be fit or good tempered.