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Horses and ponies make excellent pets for the right people. They are loyal and caring and can provide an escape from the hectic pace of everyday life. Whether you have always dreamed of a horse to call your own or you are just starting to show an interest in equestrian activities, you should ask yourself a few questions to be sure you are ready before you get your first horse. After all, just like with any type of pet, you don’t want to bring one home only to find out it is more responsibility than you are ready or willing to handle.
1. Where Will He Stay?
This may be the biggest question as you consider acquiring a horse. If you live on a farm or larger piece of property, you may already have this covered. If you are planning to go this route, you’ll need to make sure you have some sort of shelter and a horse-safe fence in place first. Otherwise, you’ll need to look into boarding facilities.
2. What Costs Are Involved?
Horses can get expensive quickly. You’ll have a veritable laundry list of costs that will need to be covered. Luckily, you may be able to reduce certain costs by doing some of the work yourself.
Some barns will allow boarders to work off part of their board by cleaning stalls or providing lessons. When stalling at home, consider taking on a boarder. It can provide companionship for your horse and help cover the cost of his care. Look into horse insurance cost before you take on boarders, however, since they can increase your liability and are usually not covered under a home policy.
3. Are There Local Trainers I Can Turn to for Help?
If you aren’t familiar with horse behavior, you may need to enlist the help of a local trainer. Find one ahead of time so you aren’t scrambling if a problem arises.
4. How Old Do Horses Get?
Horses are a long-term commitment. While minis and smaller ponies can reasonably live full lives well into their 30s, most larger horses will face retirement after they reach about 20 years old. At that point, they may still have plenty of good years left as companions or for very light riding.
Becoming a horse owner is a big responsibility. Taking the time to think the decision through and examine alternative options can save you a lot of aggravation, cost and heartache later on if you find out you weren’t fully prepared to take that on.
