Keeping Horses in the Recession
Ways to Reduce the Price of Owning Horses Without Compromising Care
Jul 15, 2009 Elizabeth Humphreys
Horses are expensive animals to keep, whether as pets or as competition animals. Different breeds of horse cost more or less than average, and horses with soundness problems or injuries are always more expensive to care for. There are always, however, ways to cut down on equestrian expenses.
Location, Location, Location
Many horses are kept in boarding stables (livery yards) away from home. The standard and price of boarding stables varies greatly. The easiest way to save money on keeping a horse is to move it to a less expensive stable yard or to choose a less expensive boarding option. Keeping a horse on grass rather than in a stall/stable is cheaper and often beneficial for the horse.
Feeding & Supplementation
A horse’s diet can have a great effect on its health and well being, so cutting corners on feed should be done with consideration for the horse’s health. There are ways in which a horse can be fed more cheaply without compromising their health. Some horses will need to be fed a great deal for health reasons, while other horses can have elements of their feeding swapped for others. Expensive weight gaining products can be replaced with beet pulp, oil and molasses. Hoof care should not be compromised; however supplements which help the quality of the horse’s coat can be left out.
Horses which are kept on grass (as mentioned above) will be cheaper to feed as they will spend much of their time grazing. As long as the horse is kept on good, quality grass it should put on weight.
Competitions
Going to competitions can be expensive due to entry fees and fuel consumption. Going to competitions closer to home will use less fuel while also reducing entry fees as smaller, local shows are usually less expensive to enter. There are many qualifying shows all over the country, one can be found within easy traveling distance.
When to Sell
If the horse itself cannot be cared for, if the standard of living for the horse has gotten too low, then it is time to sell. It might be difficult and emotional to sell a beloved animal, but the welfare of the horse must always be the top priority. The welfare of other members of the family must be considered as well: it is not fair for spouses and children to suffer because the family cannot support both themselves and a horse.
These steps are all ways in which keeping a horse can be less expensive, however the horse’s welfare should always be considered when making a change to its living conditions.
Putting a Horse on Grass Saves Money and Food
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