There's no such thing as a free horse......really, there isn't!

With the large number of cheap and free horses available, it is important to remember that the purchase price is but a very small fraction of the overall cost of horse ownership over the life time of the animal. Because of advances in veterinary medicine, horses living well into their thirties are no longer the exception. As they age, they may require more, rather than less care. Turning the old gelding or mare out to pasture to enjoy a well deserved retirement may not be an option if he or she can't maintain adequate body condition on pasture alone. Older horses may literally outlive their teeth and often require a special diet in order to maintain weight.
The following is a list of basic expenses that come with the joy and pleasure of horse ownership.

HOUSING. If you have property and an adequate and safe shelter, you need to consider the cost for upkeep of your facility. Pastures need maintenance. There is the mowing in the summer time, seeding and fertilizing in the spring. The price tag for these items depend greatly on the size of your pastures and your location. Shelters and fencing need upkeep and repairs as well.
If you don't have your own facility, you will need to board your horse. Horse Boarding can range anywhere from $100 for basic pasture board to $1000 or more for boarding that may include training or lessons.

FEED. Many boarding barns include this item in their monthly fee. Make sure you know how much hay and feed your horse will receive. If the quality and/or quantity is not sufficient for your horse, you may have to pay extra. Hay prices vary greatly across the county. Here in East Tennessee a decent bale of grass hay costs between $3 and $6. A bag of quality feed costs around $17. The average horse requires approximately 2% of it's weight in roughage (hay or pasture) and 0.5% of it's body weight in concentrates (feed). For the average 1000 pound horse, that translates to 20 pounds of hay or pasture and about 5 pounds of feed.

FARRIER CARE. Horses need consistent farrier care. Even barefoot horses need to be trimmed every 6-8 weeks. Most farriers charge $30-$40 for a trim and $80-$200 for a set of shoes.

VETERINARY CARE. If you are lucky enough to not have any mishaps. accidents or other medical emergencies, a yearly vet visit is still needed. Between the farm call, vaccinations, possible teeth floating and Coggins testing, you can expect to spend $200-$500 annually on veterinary expenses.

EQUIPMENT. Depending on your plans for your horse and your horses' living situation, you may need nothing more than a halter, brush and a hoof pick. If you are planning on riding the horse, you will need tack for your horse and appropriate attire for yourself. You may want to go trial riding with your friends, in which case you will need a truck and trailer. This is the most unpredictable budget item. While there are a few things that we actually need to care for the horse, there are so many wonderful accessories that we would like to have.

Horse ownership is a big commitment, emotionally and financially. At the same time, it is one of the most rewarding investments I have made.

If you are interested in starting your journey of horse ownership with a Horse Haven horse, please check out the list of available horses on our website. Our Adoption Committee will be happy to help!