Buying your first horse is a wonderful experience, but you may not know all of the steps to take to ensure you and your horse are protected. If you’re new to horse ownership, you definitely want to get a horse insurance quote, as well as find a veterinarian for routine care and emergencies. Here are six other helpful tips for new horse owners to get you started.
1. Care for Their Hooves Often
A horse’s hooves are constantly growing, much like human fingernails. You will want to trim them every 4-8 weeks, depending on the time of year, to ensure your horse is healthy, stable, and balanced.
2. Create a Medical Kit
You likely have a first-aid kit for yourself and your family, but your horse needs one as well. Some things to include are a rectal thermometer, vaseline, tweezers, hydrogen peroxide, bandages, saline solution, a flashlight, and more.
3. Clean the Stall Every Day
If horses’ stalls are not clean, they can develop fungal infections in their hooves. Because of this, it is essential to make sure their stall area is clean every single day. Doing so will prevent them from standing in manure and decrease the risk of contamination.
4. Establish a Vet Routine
Your horse needs regular check-ups and shots to stay healthy and prevent common diseases. After finding a reputable vet in your area, establish a routine of appointments and shots to keep on top of their care and avoid illness.
5. Take Riding Lessons
The other expenses associated with owning a horse may make you think twice about purchasing riding lessons, but this is the easiest way to ensure you and your horse are comfortable with each other. Doing this will prevent accidents and educate you on riding and taking care of your horse correctly.
6. Budget Ahead for Unexpected Costs
From medical emergencies to the equipment you didn’t know you needed, unexpected costs are bound to arise in your horse ownership journey. Make sure you set some extra money aside for these moments so you’re not struggling to keep up when they happen.
Horse ownership is a big but rewarding commitment. If you take the time to continue learning about your horse and its wellbeing, you can make the most out of the experience. Stay organized, think ahead, and remember to have fun and enjoy the little moments when you purchase your first horse.
