1) General
Owning a horse is a big responsibility. It requires time and dedication. A well-trained horse will usually cost more than $1,000. After you buy the horse, you will have additional costs that range from $1,000 to $2,000 a year (see below). Once you've decided to own a horse, select one based on its athletic ability, conformation, movement and intelligence.
2) Basic Equipment
Buckets, halter, rope, soft and stiff brushes.
3) Shelter
House animal in a covered shelter (12 ft. by 12 ft. with shavings) that allows good air movement and protection from drafts, rain and sun. An adjoining pen or lot should provide shade, be enclosed by a well-built fence and provide adequate space for exercise. Both shelter and pen should be well drained.
4) Feeding
Requirements depend on age, size and amount of work performed; for example, a hard-working horse will need 10 to 12 pounds of a balanced ration per day in addition to high quality hay; or you can provide free choice hay or pasture. Provide plenty of fresh water (5-10 gallons per day).
5) Disease/Parasite Control
Horses need to be vaccinated for tetanus and encephalomyelitis. Broodmares also should be vaccinated for rhinopneumonitis. Deworming drugs should be used
when foals are about 2 months old. Consult your veterinarian for recommended dewormers and other vaccinations/medications required. Insecticides can be used to control pests in shelters; read the labels before using. Always be alert to how your horse breathes, walks, holds its head or changes its eating habits.
6) Fitting for Show
Fitting includes getting to know your animal as well as washing, clipping, hoof trimming and performing other tasks that allow you to exhibit your animal at its best. Exhibitors should consult an experienced individual to help them develop riding skills and train their horses. Your 4-H agent/county agent is available to assist you with your project.
Money Costs
- Price of a trained horse: $2000 to $4500
- Price of an untrained, 2-year-old horse: $1500 to $3000
- Tack (buckets, bridles, saddle, brushes, etc): $1000
- Feed: $1.25 per day
- Shoeing: $60 every 8 weeks
- Veterinary Costs (vary): $100+ per year
- Fly sprays, other sundry items: $20 to $30 per month
Time and Space Costs
Work with horse 1-2 hours per day; 3-4 hours per day is optimum. Pen or paddock large enough to exercise horse.
References
Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service Publication #2384, Introduction to the 4-H Horse Project. Peter Cannizarro, County Agent, Tangipahoa Parish.