Horse ownership is a pretty fun experience but also a huge responsibility.
As a rider, owning a horse is a great step up from lessons and allows the rider lots of benefits that they don't get with just riding school lessons.
However it does come with it's drawbacks that must be taken into consideration.
Without owning a horse, riders can still continue to learn and grow through a riding school and can even branch into the industry through working student opportunities and other career pathways.
We recommend a certain level of knowledge and skill before purchasing a horse and always suggest having an experienced person help you throughout. Purchasing and owning a horse is often more complicated then many think!
Here are some key things to check before taking the leap into horse ownership:
1. Experience
Unless you are a lucky kid who has a horsey parent to help you, there is a certain level of knowledge you need no matter your age before owning a horse.
We suggest riders need to be able to competently
Catch, lead, tie, cover and gear up
Walk, trot and canter
Ride outside the arena and on hacks
Identify when a horse is anxious or in pain and how to help
Know basic horse first aid and recognizing illness'
Know basic feeding knowledge
This sets riders up to be safe and confident with their new partner, with the knowledge to keep their horse happy and healthy.
2. Time Commitment
Horses require daily care, regular training and if ridden they need the correct amount of work/ fitness to match expectations and goals.
Are you ready to dedicate the necessary time?
There are options for those that are too busy for the every day/ twice a day care, like agistment (where horses are cared for daily for you) and school use (where horses are used in lessons to keep their fitness and training up)
3. Financial Responsibility
Owning a horse involves more than just the purchase price. Can you afford
Feed
Lessons
Vet care
Farrier
Tack
Grazing fees
Dentist
Bodywork
A float or hiring transport when needed (picking up after purchase, competitions, vet)
5. Support System
It’s crucial to have knowledgeable people around you to help when needed, from helping you figure out the best feed for your horse, to helping decide when to call the vet, to choosing the right rug for the weather.
It's also important to get regular lessons to keep learning and help make sure you're doing right by your horse.
6. Emotional Readiness
Owning a horse can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with challenges. Are you prepared for the emotional ups and downs, from building a relationship and achieving goals to handling illness, injury and fixing bad habits?
If you’ve considered these factors and feel confident about meeting them, you may be ready to welcome a horse into your life!
Thinking of taking the next step? Feel free to reach out for advice or to discuss starting the search to find a pony! 🐎
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