10 Signs You Are Ready To Own A Horse

Have you been debating over whether the time is right to buy a horse of your own? While the idea of owning a horse may be exciting to you, the process comes with a lot of responsibly. Here are eight signs that may indicate that you’re ready to own a horse:

1. You Understand the True Cost of Owning a Horse

The cost of owning a horse doesn’t stop with the purchase price or with monthly board. Make sure that you truly understand all of the costs that go along with having a horse, from farrier bills to emergency vet bills to medications and training fees.

2. You Have Horse Care Experience

Before you buy a horse, you should definitely have at least some experience in caring for horses. If you don’t, ask your trainer to teach you about horse care and pick up some quality books to read up on the subject.

3. You Have People You Can Turn To

Make sure that you have a support team including a trainer and some horse owning friends who can help you along in your journey. Having folks like this who are knowledgable and willing to help you can be a great benefit when you are finally ready to take care of your own horse. 

4. You Are Realistic About Your Skills as a Rider

Be honest with yourself about your riding skills. Are you a beginner, intermediate, or advanced rider? Being honest about your riding capabilities can help ensure that you buy a horse that is appropriate for your riding and experience level.

Interested in improving your riding skills? Check out our article 7 Ways To boost Your Confidence In The Saddle. 

5. You’re Ready for a Long-Term Commitment

You understand that owning a horse is often a long-term commitment. Even if you have plans of selling your horse in a few years, you understand that sometimes selling a horse may be difficult, and you’re prepared to keep the horse until a suitable home can be found.

6. You Have Funds Saved for Emergency Situations

With horses, emergencies arise all too often. An unexpected vet bill can run into the hundreds or thousands of dollars. Make sure that you have funds saved so that you are able to financially cope with any emergencies that might arise. If you don't think you have the funding for emergency situations, you might not be ready to own a horse. 

7. You Have a Public Place to Keep the Horse

It’s important that you keep your horse in a barn that is regularly trafficked by other riders and trainers. When you buy your first horse, this isn’t the time to try caring for the horse on your very own for the first time. Keeping your horse in a public barn will give you plenty of opportunities to continue learning about horses and horse care.

8. You’ve Leased a Horse Before

Before you make the leap into horse ownership, try leasing a horse. Leasing a horse is about the closest experience you’ll have to owning one, and it can be eye-opening. Lease a horse, even if it’s just for a few months, before you make the decision to buy.

9. You Have a Great Trainer

You have a great trainer who can help you through the process of finding and buying a horse that is suitable for you. You’ve been with your trainer for a bit and trust them to steer you in the right direction when it comes to riding and horse management.

10. You Want to Keep Learning

You know that there’s always more to learn when it comes to horses, and you’re open to continuing to develop your knowledge of riding and horse care.

Did we miss any important signs that you're ready to start owning a horse? Let us know in the comments below!