Thinking About Horse
Ownership?
So – someone has been riding for a while – and the horse “BUG” does not seem to be disappearing – it might be time to consider owning a horse! Horse ownership is a commitment – in time, finances, etc. BUT the benefits are many!
Did you know that many studies have shown that horses lower our blood pressure, keep us physically fit, help us maintain better grades/organizational skills, make us safer drivers, and help us learn how to relate better with others? When riders are often confronted with peer pressure – it is easier to “just say NO” because young equestrians have learned a commitment to another living, breathing creature and are just TOO busy to get in trouble!!
What is involved in owning a horse?
1) Time – horses need regular attention. Most horses need to be ridden about 3 times per week. CSF will keep your horse exercised in the lesson program if you are unable to come out and ride due to illness/travel, etc.
2) Board – monthly fee charged for care of the horse. Board at CSF includes all the daily care, feed, hay, turn out, etc. as well as clovite coat conditioner. Any additional supplements are provided at the owner’s expense but will be administered daily as needed.
3) Supplies – at CSF we share the cost of basic supplies so items can be purchased in bulk. Fly spray, tack cleaner, and hoof dressing are minimal expenses this way. Supplies are purchased quarterly and divided up equally based on number of horses. Each horse is asked to have a basic first aid kit for emergencies.
4) Farrier – horses need to have their feet trimmed monthly. An “easy keeper” can go barefoot – those who jump more regularly or have “problem” feet may need shoes. Farrier expense starts at $45 per month up to $225 for a fancy “full” shoeing. If the horse needs only front shoes the cost is between $100-$115 depending on type of shoe. Farrier expenses are added to the board bill each month.
5) Vet – horses in good care generally need few visits from the vet. Shots are given biannually(around $100) and a coggins test($45) is required by law once per year. Teeth require floating once per year ($75-$180) if needed and should be checked annually.
6) Insurance – Horses can be insured for major medical, accidental death, theft, etc. Cost of insurance is 3.5% of insured value. Medical coverage costs depend on type selected. Owners should join USEF as membership includes a 1million dollar personal liability policy.
7) Equipment – halter, lead, sheet, blanket, fly mask, tack, groom tools. These are the basic needs – horses come with many tempting accessories!
SOLD
“Rock Paper Scissors”
17.2h Dutch WB Gelding. Former Grand Prix Dressage horse – now a fantastic hunter/equitation mount – Congratulations to Lauren on her purchase of this very sweet gelding!
Large Junior Hunter/Derby/Performance Hunter
16.3h Registered Zangerheide Gelding – For Sale – Serious Inquiries Only. Owner off to college. Ribbons at HITS/TEF/WEF and Marshall & Sterling Finals every year! Always jumps in great form – easy keeper and great barn manners – one of the sweetest horses around.
Contact Leslie Terry for more info – 239-595-7618