My boys both enjoyed horse riding and I think they would like to take it up as a hobby.  I have been looking at my options, although lessons are very expensive.  Plus, you don’t really get much time with your horse.  I can’t believe how quick their sessions were over in the past.  They would have gladly ridden for longer.  Just as they are getting into their stride, they are back in the stable ready to go home!

I have recently realised you can part share a horse.  That way we could share the upkeep of the horse and its daily care requirements.  It would make it more affordable and less of a time-consuming hobby!  Whilst still giving them plenty of time to ride a horse.  When we holidayed in Centre Parcs the boys did a little grooming activity and learnt how to care for a horse.  They found it very interesting, so I know they have the basics covered when it comes to some elements of horse care.

It’s worth bearing in mind owning a horse isn’t something you should go into lightly though.  There are considerable expenses involved.

Equipment to buy

There is so much equipment you will need to buy.  Such as a saddle and reins, feed buckets and a pitch fork to clean out the stables.  You can aim to buy pre-loved to save money or try and shop around for good deals.  It’s important to get a horse fly rug which you can then spray with Citronella to keep the bugs at bay!  My dad has been bitten by a horse fly before and they are quite nasty!  So, it’s vital to invest in something to keep the flies away for the comfort and well being of your horse.  Whatever horse fly rug you pick make sure its easy to put on and is something your horse is happy to wear.

Then you will need a good selection of brushes to use on the different sections of your horse.

Land and stabling

Horses enjoy the company of other horses so its nice to pick a stable where they will have company.  Although renting a field can work out much cheaper.  If you are willing to do more of the work yourself that will keep costs low too.

Vet and Farrier Bills

Teeth need to be checked, vaccinations will need to be paid for and worming covered as basics by the vet.  Then hooves will need trimming and new shoes fitted which can occur with some frequency depending on how often you want to ride your horse and the type of terrain it covers.

Feed and Hay

The cost of feeding your horse can fluctuate depending on the availability of hay.  When there is a shortage like there was in 2010 the cost of hay rose by 40%.  This is something you will need to factor in when deciding if horse ownership is within your means.

So if you are worried owning a horse might leave you saddled in debt then look at other options.  You can book riding holidays quite reasonably and still have plenty of time horse riding.  Part ownership of horses is very common now.  It gives the owner a bit of a break from the commitment of caring for their horse.  They have another helping hand for the mucking out and grooming.  Whilst it can benefit you as a more reasonable way to try out horse ownership.