Average cost & expenses for horses - The cost of owning horses in the suburbs

For most of us, one of the big factors affecting our answer to the question “Do you really want a horse?" is money. How much does it cost? Well the fact of the matter is I cant give you a definite answer due to the fact that cost depends on many different things. Owning a horse can be a very expensive hobby or be managed on a very modest budget. It not so much the initial cost for a horse, as it is the average cost for horse keeping

If you hire someone to build a fancy horse stable, build a high dollar fence, purchase a registered sport horse with an established show record, keep a vet on hand for the slightest lil thing, buy and expensive horse trailer to show in, and a nice big truck to pull it with. Then you are looking at a nice chunk of change and the cost for upkeep is going to be through the roof. On the other hand all that hoopla is not necessary.

If you keep your horse at home with suitable basic arrangements, then your monthly horse expenses will likely be lower than they would if you boarded your horse at a full service barn. The average cost in time and effort on the other hand will be higher, due to all the chores that come with keeping a horse at home. If you have a schedule that permits you some time & you plan well then this arrangement can be very enjoyable.

A good stable cost money great services and facilities aren’t free. Cost of boarding in the suburbs is moderate to high depending on location and services provided. You could be possibly looking at anywhere from $400 - $700 a month. A well run barn is typically in demand, so don’t be surprised if there is a waiting list. Also take into account the distance between your prospective stable and your home or job when considering overall cost. The barn you like may cost more money but if it saves you on gas its something to consider, it may be very well worth it. Remember you are buying a horse for you pleasure and enjoyment. If a barn is too far from home or work, boarding your horse could discourage you from riding. Always take our time and keep looking until you find a horse stable that best suit you and your horses needs.

You’re gonna constantly need tack supplies. The biggest expense is gonna be the purchase of a saddle. If you buy a cheaply made saddle you’re gonna end up having to purchase another one. Take it from me, you get what you pay for. A decent saddle can run you anywhere from a $1000 - $3000 or more. You may also want to buy extra bedding for your horse each month @ $6-$10 a bag. You my need to buy a different type of hay for your horse than what a boarding stable is feeding, and then you’re looking at around $15-$20 a bale. Oh and don’t for get about hoof trimming & shoeing every 6-8 weeks this could cost anywhere from $50 for a trim to $200 for shoes. It depends on whose trimming and shoeing your horse, once again you get what you pay for. Lastly if you want to supplement your horse the cost can be anywhere from $10 - $30 for a 50lb bag of grain or feed. If you decide to keep your horse at home, all these things you have to consider and more. I hope I have been somewhat of a help to you, because there is so much more to consider depending on your needs.

Learn about horsemanhip & how to train your horse at:
Horse Training Made Simple

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