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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.

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