Horses are very expensive companion animals. Before you buy or adopt a horse, here are some things you will want to consider.
How much does it cost to feed a horse?A full grown horse generally will eat three 50 pound bales of grass hay a week. Hay costs about $5 a bale for decent green hay. So that is $15 a week, $60 a month. Then if your horse is thin or high energy you will have to feed them grain, which costs an average of $10 a bag. Vitamins and supplements cost $50 per large bucket and last about 3 months. Total Cost to Feed 1 horse per month $80
Horses Feet need to be trimmed Then your horse will need its feet trimmed regularly, Most farriers will charge about $30 every 6 weeks to care for your horses feet. Or $75 if the horse needs shoes on all four feet. Total cost per month average to care for a horses feet: $60
Does a horse need Vaccinations, and de-worming?Your horse will need vaccinations and de worming in the spring and fall if he is to stay healthy. Vaccinations cost about $60 per set, and wormer about $10 per set. On average expect to pay about $10 a month for vaccinations and wormer per horse.
I don’t have my own place to keep a horse. What can I expect to pay for boarding? Boarding a horse can be expensive. For a general run of the mill stable expect to pay $125 per month to stall the horse and have it put out on pasture daily.
My horse will need regular vet care. What will that cost?
Your horse will get injured or sick. Keep a savings of $2000 or more aside if you expect to keep your horse healthy. Average vet bill is $720 per year. Veterinary care $60 per month
Saddles Tack Truck and Trailer, fencing and stable maintenanceYou will of course need to purchase a saddle, saddle pad, grooming supplies, truck and trailer to move your horse around, if you were to make payments on these items it would cost you $300 a month for at least 10 years.
Total Cost to keep 1 horse monthly: $585
Total Time to maintain 1 horse per month: 56 hours
There are many rescue organizations that need our help. Please consider the above facts, BEFORE, adopting a rescue horse. Thanks, Karin
