Are you considering buying a horse or looking for some clarity on the average monthly costs of owning a horse? If the thought of joining the exclusive horse owners' club excites you, it is important to understand that horse ownership comes with ongoing financial commitments. From the essential stable costs to horse maintenance and surprise expenses, horse ownership can be quite an investment. Read on to get the breakdown of the average monthly costs of owning a horse, including the unexpected expenses horse owners may face.
Average Cost Of Keeping A Horse Per Month Table of Contents
1. Boarding
One of the first and most important costs to consider is where your horse will be stabled. This will be your horse's primary accommodation, and the cost will depend on the type and location of the boarding facility. The boarding options usually range from a simple field to a fully-equipped stable. Based on your chosen type of boarding facility, expect to spend anywhere from $200 to 1,000 per month. Remember that your horse deserves a safe and comfortable living environment, so it's essential to visit different facilities and select the best option within your budget.
2. Feed and Water
Horses require a proper diet of hay, grain, and supplements which are essential for their health. The quantity varies depending on the size of the horse, its activity level, and the nutritional content of the hay. On average, you will spend about $50 to $300 per month on feed and supplements. Additionally, horses need a steady supply of fresh water. If your boarding facility doesn't provide water, expect to spend an additional $20 to $60 per month on water.
3. Health Care
Routine health care is a significant part of horse ownership, and you can't afford to compromise on it. Regularly scheduled visits by a veterinarian for check-ups and vaccinations will cost you roughly $25 to $100 per month, depending on the area you live in and the number of services needed. Horses also need dental care, which usually ranges from $150 to $200 per year.
4. Farrier Services
Horses rely on their hooves to support their body, and regular hoof care is vital to their overall well-being. A farrier will provide services such as trimming, shoeing, and corrective trimming. Depending on the type of service needed and your location, farrier costs typically range from $30 to $200 every six to eight weeks. This equates to around $20 to $100 per month.
5. Grooming and Equipment
The purpose of grooming your horse isn't just to make them look pretty, but to keep them healthy too. Basic grooming equipment includes brushes, curry combs, and hoof picks, costing approximately $50 to $80 for a complete set. Though these are one-time expenses, replacing worn-out equipment is essential and can add to your total monthly costs.
Average Cost Of Keeping A Horse Per Month Example
To give you a better sense of what to expect, let's imagine a horse owner living in a suburban area with their horse stabled at a medium-tier boarding facility. They can consider the following monthly expenses:
- Boarding: $500
- Feed and water: $200
- Health care: $50
- Farrier services: $50
- Miscellaneous: $50
This totals to a monthly cost of $850, which doesn't include any surprise expenses, such as emergency vet visits or additional equipment.
Now that you know what it takes financially to own a horse, you can better assess whether this dream is feasible for you. It’s essential to be prepared for the costs of horse ownership to ensure the proper care and well-being of your equine friend. If you found this information helpful, please share this post with other potential horse owners and explore our other resources at How to Own a Horse.
