Horse Care Money Saving Tips

Horses don’t come without expenses.  We all want the best for our horses, but it’s not always possible to purchase everything we’d like for them.  With a little thought and creativity, you can provide quality care for your horse without going broke in the process.

Horse Care Money Saving Tips

Feed
•    When it comes to feed you don’t want to skimp.  High quality hay is the best and it is cheapest during summer months.  Purchase your hay during hay season off the field which will be the most inexpensive way to purchase as opposed to purchasing it during the winter months.
•    Unless you have a good reason to feed concentrates, cut back on them.  Most horses don’t require much more than some good hay.  Avoid cattle feed which contains additives.
•    Purchase grain in bulk which is cheaper.  If you are not able to store loose grain, then check with your feed or co-op store to compare prices.
•    Compare quality, ingredients and prices of generic feeds rather than purchasing name brands.
Equipment
•    Shop consignment shops for blankets, riding boots, halters, bridles, saddles, and other accessories.  However, when it comes to helmets don’t purchase them used.
•    Become handy!  You’ll have lots of repairs and if you don’t know how to perform them, you will be replacing the items.
•    Grab a brush, some livestock shampoo and the hose and clean your own blankets and rugs.
•    Consider trading or a swap to trade tack that you don’t use for tack you need.
•    Combine salt or baking soda and vinegar to make your own polish to shine brass on halters, bridles and harnesses.
•    Learn to sew and sew your own riding clothing and accessories!
•    Donate items you no longer use to horse rescues and ask for a tax receipt.
•    Purchase things on sale.

Riding
•    If you plan to take lessons, sign up for group lessons.

Stabling
•    Reduce the size of your herd.
•    When you aren’t in your arena or barn, turn off the lights.  When riding at night don’t turn on all the arena lights unless necessary.
•    If you are boarding the horse consider bartering barn chores for a discount.

Care
•    If possible, allow your horse to go barefoot.  If you must use shoes then try front shoes.
•    Knowing how to care for your horse will save you a great deal in vet bills.
•    Do not breed your mare.
•    De-worm your horse yourself.