As the old saying goes, "a horse is only as good as the feed it eats." In recent years, the United States has shown a significant increase in expenditure on horse feed, reflecting the growing demand for high-quality and nutritious products to fuel equestrian sports and the beloved companionship of these magnificent animals. This article will delve deep into the current levels of spending, the factors driving this upward trend, the benefits of investing in quality horse feed, and the industry's future outlook. So saddle up and come along for the ride as we explore the fascinating world of horse feed spending in the US.
US Spending On Horse Feed Table of Contents
When it comes to feed, the primary expenditure for any horse owner is purchasing quality supplies that meet the nutritional needs of their equine companions. These include hay or haylage, concentrated feeds (grain and pelleted rations), supplements, and any additional feeding accessories. A report by the American Horse Council Foundation, titled "Economic Impact of the US Horse Industry," estimates that the United States spent approximately $1.6 billion on horse feed in 2017 alone.
There are several factors that contribute to this growing expenditure on horse feed, including:
1. Increase in horse ownership: With an estimated 7.2 million horses in the United States, the demand for horse feed has understandably grown. Many households consider horses as family members, and horse owners are willing to invest in their well-being, ensuring they are fed with the best possible products available.
2. Rising feed and raw material costs: Rising fuel costs, fluctuating weather patterns, and growing demand for ingredients across other markets contribute to the increasing cost of producing and delivering horse feeds. Feed manufacturers often pass these rising expenses onto consumers, leading to higher spending.
3. Awareness of proper nutrition: Modern horse owners have a better understanding of equine nutrition than ever before, thanks largely to research and technological advancements. As a result, they are more likely to purchase a variety of feeds and supplements tailored to their horses’ individual needs, further driving up expenditures.
4. Supplement usage: With the growing awareness surrounding the benefits of supplements, more horse owners are opting to include them in their equine feeding plans. In addition, specialty supplements targeting specific ailments or performance goals have hit the market, leading to higher overall spending on horse nutrition.
US Spending On Horse Feed Example
Imagine an equestrian enthusiast, Sarah, who spends about $200 per month on feed for her two horses. She purchases high-quality hay, a grain mixture, a joint supplement, and a digestive aid to optimize her horses' health and well-being. Sarah's spending on horse feed is right in line with the national average – a 2018 study conducted by the American Horse Publications reported that approximately 70% of horse owners spent between $100 and $249 per month on feed and care.
As horse owners continue to prioritize their beloved companions’ wellbeing and the industry gains further knowledge about proper equine nutrition, we can expect US spending on horse feed to keep climbing. This investment in quality products offers a multitude of benefits, including longer, healthier lives for horses, optimized growth and development, increased performance, and ultimately, a more enjoyable and rewarding experience for owners like Sarah. So spread the word about the importance of investing in top-notch horse feed and don't forget to check out our other informative and engaging articles on How to Own a Horse to help you navigate the equestrian world with confidence.
