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Caring for horses on a budget

Quick facts

Most cost reducing opportunities fall in the area of preventative medicine, education and being a responsible horse owner.

  • Keep your horses on your property if possible to avoid boarding costs.

  • Practice biosecurity and schedule routine physical exams to keep your horse healthy.

  • Improve feed efficiency and reduce storage and feed waste to limit feed costs.

  • Have a good insurance plan and be prepared for emergencies.

  • Be involved in your horse’s daily care.

Owning a horse is a major responsibility, and a significant investment of both time and money. Most owners don’t generate income from their horse, but are intent on spending time with their equine companion. During tough economic times, horse owners need to explore and implement options to reduce costs.

Reducing costs

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When to not reduce costs

It’s not appropriate to cut costs on the following.

  • Buying quality hay.

  • Emergency care: If your horse needs a veterinarian, don’t hesitate to contact one. Waiting can lead to added costs with procedures and after care.

  • Using a professional (veterinarian, farrier, nutritionist, etc.) when your horse needs one.

  • Core vaccinations and dental exams: Preventing disease is more cost effective than treating a sick horse.

Authors: Krishona Martinson, Extension equine specialist and Julie Wilson, DVM

Reviewers: Missie Schwartz, Minnesota Horse Council, Harlan Anderson, DVM, Roy Johnson, Cargill, Marcia Hathaway, professor of animal science, College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences, and Erin Malone, DVM

Reviewed in 2021

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