How much does it cost to own a horse?

Years ago before I was even looking for a horse, I remember talking with a somewhat jaded horsewoman who was muttering how the cost of a horse is usually the least expensive part of owning one. That certainly can be true, but your chances will be better if you do your homework.

Yes, there are going to be expenses after you buy your equine partner. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect:

Board: Anywhere from $150 for self-care to $1200-1500 for full training board at a specialized barn. The average full care board depends on where you live, but here on the East coast you could expect to pay anywhere from $350-$800 for full care board.

Vet bills: Your horse will need to be visited at least once a year by a vet for routine shots, and usually they’ll need to come twice a year for boosters. Spring shots will usually cost you around $150-200.

Farrier: A trim on a barefoot horse will cost anywhere from $45-$100 depending on who you have out. Shoes on all four hooves will run upwards of $120 per visit. Expect to have the farrier out once a month.

Teeth floating: Horse’s teeth continue to erupt as the chewing process grinds them down, but they don’t always wear evenly and can develop sharp points called hooks. Teeth floating is the term used for grinding down any sharp edges. If your vet does the floating (many do) you’ll be able to add this on to your annual or biannual shots. Ranges from $45 to $300 if you have a specialized equine dentist.

Hay: Full care board will include hay and feed, but if you go the self care or pasture board route you will often want to supplement hay. The average horse needs to eat 1-2% of their body weight in roughage each day. In the winter months Sky (who weighs about a thousand pounds) eats at least half a bale a day. This is partly because she is outside and needs to burn calories to keep warm. The cost of a bale of hay will vary depending on where you are located. Average is $4-$9 a bale. Grain will also depend on what you feed.

Blankets and sheets: If you live in a climate where the weather gets cold and/or wet in the winter, you will probably need to invest in a blanket and rain sheet, though some horse owners don’t believe in blanketing their horses. It really does depend on the horse and situation. Some horses don’t grow thick winter coats genetically, so you’ll need to keep your eye on them to make sure they are warm enough. Waterproof blankets can cost $100-$500 depending on the brand, but most usually last for a few years. You can look online for lightly used blankets or ask your friends if they have any they no longer need.

Tack and equipment: This too will vary depending on what you are planning to do with your horse. You’ll need a halter, lead rope, saddle, bridle, and safety helmet, at least to start. The cost of the saddle you buy isn’t nearly as important as its fit. Take the time to learn how to measure and fit your horse, or find someone locally who can help you.

As you can see, things add up very quickly with horse ownership. A healthy horse shouldn’t have too many bills besides this, but accidents do happen, so it’s always a good idea to have a little extra set aside for the unforeseen. Your horse could cut its leg on a fence post which would require an emergency vet visit for stitches, for example. Definitely don’t be afraid of bad things happening, but be aware that sometimes horses need a vet’s care.

My friend had the emergency vet out for her horse when he began to colic (more on this later.) If she hadn’t, her horse could have died. Another owner I know came to the barn one day and found her horse had a huge gash on his withers, presumably from rolling on something in his field or playing too rough with his pasture mate. It required emergency transport to a veterinary hospital, but both of these injured horses were okay in the long run.