Five things you didn’t know about raising a horse

Did you know nearly two million people in the United States are horse owners? Even more, over 7 million Americans are involved in the horse industry either as employees or volunteers.

Remember, horse raising isn’t for the faint of heart. Being a new owner is a huge responsibility, and you need to be up for the task.

So before you hop into the saddle and trot off into the sunset, you need to make sure horse ownership is right for you. Check out this guide to learn five things you didn’t know about raising horses!

Should I own one?

Even if you love horses more than your own partner, it doesn’t necessarily mean you should go out and buy one. You need to hold your horses and take the time to do your research. It is a major commitment both financially and emotionally.

So, immerse yourself in the world of horses if you haven’t already. Some things you can try include enrolling in riding lessons with an experienced instructor. It can also mean getting involved in local riding events or volunteering at a stable.

Another thing you can do before committing to buy a horse is to consider a lease. You can often find leasing arrangements where you pay a fee or a part of the horse’s expenses, and in exchange, you can ride and still provide care. Leasing allows you to give ownership a test drive before you commit.

How to choose a horse

Choosing a horse means choosing safely and wisely. If you choose a wild horse you can’t control, then you may be looking at pictures from the hospital instead of riding it!

Look for a well-trained horse and that has a quiet and steady temperament. Your first should be one that you can easily handle and ride. So remember, pick personality over breed, and you’ll win every time.

Where to buy a horse

A fabulous place to start your search is by first talking to your riding instructor. Your riding instructor knows your riding skills and preferences and might even know of a horse for sale that would be perfect for you!

Another place to start looking for classified ads is on sites like equine.com, where you can search by state, breed, and discipline. Look for horses described as steady, calm, or a horse that anyone can ride.

Learn basic first aid

Horse raising and basic first aid for injuries go hand in hand. No matter how safe you are, injuries can still happen.

You can usually deal with minor cuts and scrapes on your own using an antiseptic spray. More severe issues like bleeding or cuts that need stitches require veterinary attention. Learning to keep calm and deal with injuries is a huge part of owning a horse.

Know the supplies you’ll need

Knowing how to raise a horse also includes getting the supplies it needs. You’ll need to make sure you first have suitable feed, supplements, hay, pasture, and access to regular veterinary care.

There are also many different types of saddles, bridles, and riding wear to choose from. Get familiar with these brands. These are established brands in the industry, and you’ll be more likely to get what you pay for.

Now you’re ready to embark on the experience of a lifetime. You can learn so much from horse raising if you put the research and time in to prepare.

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