Enter our 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways here!
SubscribeGift a Sub
Enable cache 100
Horse Ownership

Your First Horse

Purchase Your New Horse, the Horse Owner’s Manual, at Amazon.com.
Horse Owner’s Guides
Complete Grooming Guide
Grooming your horse is more than just making him look good. It’s essential for his health and strengthens the bond you share with him. Download the Complete Grooming Guide for step-by-step instructions on how to groom your horse.
Download Now >>
Year-Round Horse Care
Winter, spring, summer and fall bring about changes in the weather and environment that affect a horse’s health needs, from feeding to parasite control to farrier care. Here’s a guide to help you keep your horse healthy throughout the year.
Download Now >>
Winning Show Tips
Competing with your horse can be fun if you are well-prepared for it.Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you choose the right competition, find appropriate attire, show-groom your horse and more.
Download Now >>
Resources for New Horse Owners
Horse Cost Calculator
Can you afford to own a horse? If you’re thinking about entering the world of horse ownership, it’s time to take a look at your budget. This calculator will help you determine if you will be able to provide for a horse.
Calculate now >>
Before You Buy
Before you embark on your horse-shopping journey, find out everything you need to know about finding the right horse, what to avoid and how to determine if you’re financially ready for horse ownership.
Read more >>
Horse Health and Nutrition
Feed your horse right and stay on top of his health care needs and you will have a partner for many years to come. Read more on feeding, emergency care and preventative measures to keep him feeling his best.
Read more >>
Horse Care and Grooming
Daily grooming is one of the joys you’ll share with your new horse. Find out what tools you’ll need in your grooming kit and how to use them. Get tips on everyday grooming and special-occasion bathing.
Read more >>
Tack and Equipment
The gear you need to ride your horse is often as much or more of an investment than the horse himself. Learn how to select the right tack and how to care for it to keep it in good condition for many years.
Read more >>
Riding and Showing
Finding a good riding instructor, finding the discipline that suits you and your horse and entering the competitive arena are all great ways to improve your horsemanship and have fun with your new horse.
Read more >>
Kids and Horses
As the parent of a horse-crazy kid, you undoubtedly have a lot of questions. Read on to find out how to find a great riding instructor or summer camp, what your child should wear to stay safe in the saddle, and how to find that all-important first pony.
Read more >>

Abigail Boatwright

Abigail Boatwright is a freelance writer and photographer based in Texas, and is the editor of Horse Illustrated’s sister publication, Western Life Today.

View Comments

Recent Posts

Haven Pines: A Family Sleigh Ride Business

Tucked into the forests of northern Wisconsin is a family-owned and operated homestead known as Haven Pines. Run by Erin…

16 hours ago

Shop Small Business Saturday: Equestrian Edition

It’s holiday shopping season and I’ve spent the last few months searching for unique or useful equestrian gifts. I’m so…

5 days ago

Choosing the Right Hay Type

Timothy, orchard grass, alfalfa, fescue, clover—so many hay types! What’s the right type of hay to choose in your particular…

5 days ago

Thrush Season Is Upon Us.

As horse owners, you know it’s time for that stinky, white crumbly grossness that comes with thrush - and even…

7 days ago

ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Hazel

Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the…

1 week ago

ASPCA Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week: Breaking Bullet

Welcome to Horse Illustrated’s weekly installment of the Right Horse Adoptable Horse of the Week, offered in partnership with the…

2 weeks ago