Running Free - A Wild Horse Tale

Horse Budget

How Much does it Cost to Own a Horse?

Overview of Horse Cost

The initial expense of the horse is not the expensive part of horse ownership. It's the daily/monthly/annual costs that add up over time to make owning a horse an expensive venture.

One-Time Costs:

Housing at home

• Wood or pipe corral
• Water container
• Feeder
• Shelter

Equipment

• Halter
• Lead rope
• Assorted brushes and combs
• Hoof pick
• Saddle
• Saddle Pad
• Bridle
• Riding clothes
• Blanket

Health Expenses

• Pre-purchase Veterinary Exam
• Coggins Test
• First Aid Kit

Expenses at Purchase

• Sale Price or Adoption Fee
• Transport to new home
• Brand inspection

Continual Costs:

Housing at boarding facility

• Monthly board fee
• Additional charges for grain, blanket service, turnout service, etc.

Feed at home

• Hay
• Mineral Salt Block
• Grain
• Vitamins

Health Expenses

• Fly Control
• Deworming
• Vaccinations
• Dental Care
• Physicals
• Vet Trip Charges
• Farrier

Other expenses

• Training for the horse
• Riding lessons
• Show fees
• Additional tack/equipment
• Riding clothes

Budget Forms

Here is a sample budget form to get you started on a good estimate of horse ownership cost.

Additional versions of the agreement for your convenience:

• Printable version of the budget form [pdf]. [Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader. Click here to download this program for free. ]
• Downloadable version of the budget form [doc] to keep for your records.