Still, his show ring career wasn’t over. From there, we transitioned to a successful second career in dressage. After several good years, it was time to let this career go, too. By then in his early 30s but still not content to be fully retired, his final job was as a leadline mount for my then-young daughter. His full retirement, when it finally came a few years later, was something I felt we were both happy and comfortable with.

On the other hand, my half-Arabian mare, Sally, was an example of a difficult early retirement. A highly versatile horse, just one of her many talents was her performance in the hunter ring.

However, despite my best efforts, she has never truly been a healthy horse. Some of her health conditions we have been able to name and treat. Though these issues may have limited her, they never took her completely out of the game.

Other conditions have been mysterious and less well-managed due to their undefined nature; her treatments have been a roller coaster of successes and failures. Numerous tests have led to dead ends leading to more significant restrictions.

Though still in her early 20s, her most recent job change has been from a semi-retired trail horse to pasture-sound companion horse. By outward appearances, she looks amazing, but she is unable to tolerate a rider.

Soundness and Injuries

With so many possible retirement scenarios, what is considered an average age for retirement? What is considered an early retirement?

The decision to retire a horse is based on several different factors, according to Jud Easterwood, DVM, of Easterwood Equine Hospital in Calera, Ala.

“Most of these factors are health or soundness related,” he says. “I don’t think there is an average age. We have some horses that are able to perform well into their 20s. Other horses have had significant injuries that lead to chronic lameness or issues with pain. These horses have to retire much earlier.”

Easterwood says that he considers “early” retirement one that occurs before the age of 20. In his experience, these unfortunate early retirement scenarios are usually centered around tendon or suspensory ligament injuries. He says they can also be brought on by conditions such as arthritis or ringbone.

“Any serious injury could result in these conditions that a horse can’t overcome to get back into high-level performance work,” he says.

Metabolic & Back Problems

Sometimes, conditions such as PPID and the insulin resistance that sometimes accompanies it can necessitate early retirement, especially when it leads to other conditions, such as chronic laminitis and potentially founder. Easterwood says that while these issues are typically seen in horses over the age of 20, they do occasionally occur in younger horses, too.

Over the years, because imaging has improved, he notes that horses being diagnosed with back problems have also become much more common. Rather than undiagnosed pain, he says we are now able to pinpoint kissing spines and neck arthritis.

“These may not stand out to you like leg lameness, but they create an overall sour behavior or back soreness,” says Easterwood. Depending on their severity, these may also require retirement.

Signs That It’s Time to Retire

What are the signs that your horse may be ready to retire?

“Any sort of chronic lameness or pain issues would be the No. 1 condition that leads to retirement,” says Easterwood. “No. 2 is when the horse doesn’t enjoy his job anymore and has become sour.”

He also lists conditions such as liver disease; inflammatory bowel disease that leads to chronic diarrhea and weight loss; neurological diseases that cause ataxia, such as EPM or (less commonly) West Nile virus; or any condition that is difficult to treat and that leads to performance problems.

Semi or Full Retirement?

Regardless of age, when you decide to retire your horse, you’ll need to consider partial or full retirement. Easterwood says that he likes to use the words “serviceably sound” with owners considering partial retirement for their horses.

“You may have a horse that is not 100 percent sound and is no longer suitable for show jumping, barrel racing, or other types of intense performance sports,” he says. “But [semi-retirement is an option] if the horse is still able to get around fine and enjoy doing activities such as trail riding, flat work, ground work, or being ridden in lessons.”

He says some horses can do these things well and maintain a good exercise regimen, even though they are stepping back from their previous high-intensity careers.

However, there is one important caveat that Easterwood advises for owners considering semi-retirement. If you’re considering having a child take over the ride on your horse, he advises having the horse evaluated by a veterinarian to determine whether there are any issues the horse may have with tripping and falling in order to prevent potentially devastating accidents.

Whether or not semi or full retirement is a happy occasion for your horse depends on several factors.

Easterwood’s first recommendation for keeping retirees engaged is to exercise as tolerated. Keeping horses stabled or pastured near high-activity areas can also help keep retirees engaged, while stall or pasture toys can provide further enrichment.

Prolonging Soundness

While retirement may be inevitable for most horses, there are some steps you can take to extend your horse’s working career. Easterwood says that good veterinary care is a staple to keeping horses sound and happy in their job.

“It doesn’t have to be frequent,” he says. “I recommend annual to biannual X-rays and lameness evaluations to make sure you are keeping up with any changes to previous injuries and to make sure that nothing new has developed.”

If conditions such as arthritis, degenerative joint disease, or joint injuries exist, he recommends the use of prescription intramuscular injections for their treatment. He says that veterinarians also sometimes use intra-articular injections to relieve pain and keep horses comfortable.

Even if your horse is free of any condition requiring injections, Easterwood says that oral supplements can work to reduce wear and tear. He also says that therapies such as chiropractic adjustments, massage, acupuncture, and PEMF treatments can augment traditional veterinary care to the benefit of your horse.

Easterwood also advises screening for metabolic diseases as the horse ages, but also if your horse exhibits any signs any signs that warrant it.

Though no guarantee, the above steps, along with maintaining a good diet and exercise plan—as well as updated vaccinations, deworming, and dental care—can go a long way toward ensuring that your horse enjoys a long career.

By and large, the decision to retire your horse can be one of the more difficult decisions that horse owners face. By watching for indications and taking the appropriate steps, you can rest assured that you are making the best decisions for your horse’s future.

This article about when to retire your horse appeared in the October 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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During a break at the recent Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event in April, I sat down with Jennifer Brocker, Vice President of Client Marketing, Veterinary/Pet Care, CareCredit, and Kate Hayes, Vice President Equine Expansion, CareCredit. The company recently surveyed horse owners on the expected versus actual costs of horse care, and the results were pretty surprising.  

The study revealed that while 83 percent of horse owners believe they’re financially prepared, actual costs can be three to four times higher than expected—especially when unexpected veterinary needs arise, such as colic or orthopedic injuries that can cost up to $10,000. 

Horse Illustrated: Can you tell us what the new Equine Lifetime of Care Study means for equine vets and horse owners, and why many underestimate the long-term financial commitment of owning a horse?  

Jennifer Brocker: We originally did our Lifetime of Care Study for companion animals (dogs and cats). And then we decided we needed the same kind of information for equine veterinarians and horse owners, so they have a better understanding of how much money they spend over the lifetime of a horse. The way we saw it was, you’re helping prepare them for what’s to come. And since cost of care is one of the biggest barriers for horse ownership or pet ownership, we felt it was important knowing in advance and being educated on the ways that you can be prepared financially over the lifetime of your animal. We also thought it was important that veterinarians have a view into that as well.  

Kate Hayes: It’s such a great tool to educate and empower clinics and practices and veterinarians, but then also on the flip side, like Jen said, to educate horse owners. Because whether people rescue a horse or get into riding for the first time, they know what a riding lesson costs, but they don’t know what the full expense of owning a horse costs. This [study] is a great tool to empower and to educate practices and clinics because this gives them information to pass on to their clients. 

HI: What are some strategies equine vets are using to navigate rising costs, including tools to reduce financial friction with clients, while maintaining high-quality care?  

Brocker: The strategy a lot of equine veterinarians use is, “If you can’t pay me today, I provide the care, and you can pay me later,” which leaves the veterinarian chasing the money. So we can train the veterinarians to say, “I want to take care of your horse, but that requires financial responsibility. Here are the solutions that we have in our practice to help you be ready.” The horse owner needs to understand that the veterinarian must be paid just like their board bill or hay bill is paid.  

Hayes: We’re a partner with them and their business to help that shift. Regardless of what type of veterinarian you are, it’s cost that’s the biggest point of friction between you and your clients. If you talk about it from the beginning, that moment of friction is reduced, so the unexpected medical moment doesn’t also come with an unexpected financial crisis.  

HI: How is CareCredit partnering with equine clinics nationwide to improve access to care while supporting sustainable practice growth? 

Brocker: We’re partnering up with [equine vet practices/clinics] on various levels. First, helping educate their team. How do you have a comfortable financial conversation with a horse owner? If you don’t talk about it and you’re not comfortable talking about it, that in and of itself is a barrier. So we have a lot of training and education to help the veterinary team not be afraid to bring it up, helping them with proactive confidence in that financial moment where everybody’s really emotional.  

The other thing [CareCredit is doing to help equine vet clinics] is we’ve created an all-digital financial experience, so regardless of whether you’re in the clinic or you’re out at the barn, you can apply for CareCredit, get approved, and pay—all from your phone. We’ve always been available in equine practices, but when we first went into it, our payment experience didn’t fit their model. Now they can get paid anywhere, anytime. 

Hayes: If you look at our partnerships on a bigger scale with the AAEP (American Association of Equine Practitioners), being an educational partner for them allows us a platform. Education is the key word here. It supports the sustainability of the profession by providing resources that are specific to their workflows, because the ultimate goal is what’s best for the horse and what’s best for the horse owner. If we can help remove some of the barriers that are between a horse owner getting the treatment for their horse, then that’s what we’re here for.  

We also partner with universities. The future veterinarian is also very important to us, so by the time that they’re in practice, that financial conversation isn’t as quite as challenging. It’s tough being a veterinary student—there’s a lot of information thrown at you, so of course the business side isn’t always top of mind. By supporting the universities and organizations that support the future veterinarian, it allows us a platform to be able to educate and help them before they’re actually in practice.  

HI: What is CareCredit?  

Hayes: CareCredit is a health and wellness credit card that horse owners can use for all types of veterinary services, treatments, and diagnostics.* It’s a great fit for the equine profession because instead of invoicing after service has been completed, this gives you the opportunity to pay upfront—the veterinarian is able to capture payment in full up front, but the horse owner has 6, 12, 18 months of interest-free [time to make the payments].

*Subject to credit approval 

Brocker: I think one of the best things about CareCredit is once you have the credit card, you are financially ready for whatever happens, whether it’s wellness or unexpected or surgery. And you can use it for whatever animal you have at the veterinarian. It is truly your family credit card for life’s unexpected expenses.  

View the entire Equine Lifetime of Care Study here. 

To learn more or apply for a CareCredit card, visit www.carecredit.com.  

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Good horse owners try to do the best they can for their horses—often to a fault. But what happens when a good owner finds themselves in a potentially perilous financial situation when their horse has an emergency?

In the past, some of these horses would have been relinquished to adoption or rescue organizations or even sent through auctions out of sheer desperation as the owner tried to give the horse a shot at getting the care they could not afford.

Now, however, thanks to a grant program jointly administered by the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), The Foundation for the Horse (AAEP’s charitable arm), and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), owners have other options to get their horses the care they need.

The Vet Direct Safety Net Program was created with one goal in mind: To help keep owned horses in homes. The program does this by providing owners with a stipend of up to $600 to assist with a horse’s emergent welfare need. The funds are available on a per-horse—not per-owner—basis, allowing owners to receive even more assistance should they find themselves with multiple horses in need.

Timing is Everything

Lizz Ficara of Louisville, Ky., has always taken impeccable care of her horses. In 2023, Ficara had major back surgery that prevented her from working as an equine dental tech. Like most horses, Ficara’s Quarter Horse gelding, Tony, had incredible timing (sarcasm intended) and needed emergent medical care while she was out of work and funds were short. But for Ficara, foregoing his care wasn’t an option.

She began searching for programs or grants she could apply for to help offset the medical bills her horse was about to incur. During one conversation, the Vet Direct Safety Net program was mentioned, and she began coordinating efforts between the program and her veterinarian so funding would be available to her horse—and to other horses in similar situations.

Medical Attention Needed

While Ficara was out of work, Tony had developed open, oozing sores on three of his four pasterns. He had significant granulation tissue that was incredibly painful and itchy. After trying to resolve it herself with myriad salves and creams, Ficara called her vet, as Tony was clearly uncomfortable and the wounds were not healing.

Sarah Grigoleit, DVM, of Kentucky Equine Hospital in Simpsonville, Ky., diagnosed Tony with significant suspected summer sores on three of his four legs. A parasitic disease linked to the life cycles of stomach worms, summer sores are caused by larvae deposited in areas where they cannot complete their life cycle (often around the nose, lips or genitals), causing inflammation and ulceration where they are laid—in Tony’s case, on his legs.

Unfortunately, summer sores are notoriously stubborn to heal. Treatment often requires a veterinarian to debride the wound multiple times, as well as administer ivermectin, corticosteroids and topical products. In addition, Tony had to have his legs wrapped to keep them as clean as possible.

Getting the Funding

In total, Tony received three months of at-home treatment for his legs, including bi-weekly granulation debridement treatment that was essential to his healing and well-being. All the vet visits added up in a hurry, and Ficara was thankful for the financial breathing room Vet Direct funding offered her.

“The program funding was not hard to access,” says Ficara. “The only caveat was that my vet—or someone with her clinic—had to be a current AAEP member. As long as one vet is a member, the whole clinic has access to Vet Direct funds for their clients.”

Though veterinarians are often enrolled in the program first and then offer it to their clients in need, in this case, Ficara reached out to the Vet Direct team directly and encouraged her vet clinic to become enrolled.

Her persistence and insistence that the program could assist not only horse owners but the clinic itself by helping to offset open invoices will no doubt have positive ramifications for years to come.

Today, Tony is summer sore-free and enjoying his life, and Ficara is looking forward to the day when she’s comfortable enough to ride again.

“I am deeply thankful for the Vet Direct Safety Net Program,” she says. “The funding applied toward my invoices was incredible and allowed me a bit of peace of mind during an already stressful time. We all love our horses and want to do the best for them. The Vet Direct program allowed me to continue to offer Tony the type of care he was used to receiving even though I was in a tough spot financially.”

Further Reading
◆ How Equine Safety Net Programs Are Making a Difference
◆ Horse Safety Net Programs Helping Horses and Owners in Need

This article about the Vet Direct Safety Net Program appeared in the May 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post How the Vet Direct Safety Net Program is Helping Horse Owners appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

After years as a rider and horse owner, we hold on to that identity for ourselves. It may not have been a steady journey, and it was probably interrupted by work and family changes. Or maybe it started late. At some point, we begin to define ourselves as horse owners.

After I lost my last horse, these thoughts were on my mind:

Do I need another horse?

Am I ready for that?

Who am I now?

Here, we dive into four stories of horse women who are now investing their time and energy into a new horse. Their excitement and sense of good fortune are inspiring.

Meet Lois

Lois Pienkos and her husband live on a picturesque farm near a small town in Eastern Iowa. There are barns, an arena, a jump field, pastures, and a lovely white house with a wraparound enclosed porch full of plants.

Lois is a quilter and paints bright barn quilts that hang on the buildings. When her daughter began riding in Pony Club, Lois got involved and then became a rider herself. She bred her mare and raised two dressage horses that she took to clinics and shows. Now retired, she and her husband spend most of the year on their farm in Iowa with their horses and four to five months in Wellington, Fla., where her trainer lives.

Lois and her trainer decided it was time to find a smaller horse for Lois to move up the levels. They found a great match for her in Florida in 2021, a 10-year-old Lusitano gelding named Heroi. Once home, she easily, but with sadness, sold her bigger Second Level dressage horse and started on a new adventure.

“Heroi is being trained in dressage,” Lois says. “I’m also beginning to try working equitation. He and I are playing with some of the props and plan to attend a clinic or two in 2023 in Iowa. We started him on trails while we were in Florida this past season. At home and at the barn in Florida, we hack around the property regularly. We do hope to show Heroi, hopefully in the next year.”

The summer fills with clinics and lessons, working on what they learned the past winter in Florida. They travel to Loxahatchee, Fla., in November, where they stable with friends from around the country and train. Lois says her horse’s progress keeps her going, as she “is living the dream.”

Meet Celesta

Celesta Albonetti has ridden since she was a young woman, beginning with hunters, jumpers and eventing before committing to dressage. Celesta loved her small farm in eastern Iowa, surrounded by creeks, woods and farm fields. Her two Trakehner mares loved it, too.

After 16 years there, she retired and returned to Memphis, Tenn., and her family. Her older mare with exquisite gaits and flash had passed away a few years earlier.

Celesta brought the younger mare, Angie, to Tennessee. She found a suitable dressage barn and became friends with riders at the barn who were able to ride Angie for her. Celesta spent hours there, as she has always cared for her horses in this way. Tragically, Angie later became ill and passed away. Most of us can empathize with the grief this brought to Celesta.

When she was ready for another horse, Celesta purchased another Trakehner mare, a 6-year-old she found in Kentucky. Baroness III, called “Aliza” in the barn, was foaled in 2015 and spent two years as a broodmare prior to Celesta purchasing her in August 2021.

“I felt alive again,” she says. “I go out every day, and I love it.”

After a stall became available in her trainer’s barn in Eads, Tenn., Celesta moved her mare there. The trainer works with Aliza each week, and her progress makes all three very happy. Celesta’s trainer, Macy, has started to show Aliza, and the three share the excitement of their progress. Their plans are to show at Training and First Level during the summer and fall.

Meet Ellen

Ellen Spector has spent her lifetime riding. After years of working, raising children, and boarding her horses, she settled in Iowa, where she and her husband bought a large acreage and put up a 12-stall boarding barn, West Branch Horse Farm. She moved from hunter/jumpers into dressage. She bought mares and started to raise her own dressage horses. Ellen prided her barn as having the best care in the area.

The years passed with many beautiful horses and many devoted boarders. As Ellen’s horses aged and passed away, she found herself without a horse of her own and began to think about the next one—a horse she would keep even after eventually selling the property.

With her husband’s encouragement, Ellen traveled to Denmark with a Danish boarder, Susanne. Susanne’s sister drove them from barn to barn, searching for the right horse. The three dressage riders found a lovely young mare for Ellen, who has always loved mares.

She bought home the 5-year-old Danish Warmblood mare Kokkedals Heroine, barn name “Heroine,” in 2016. With some help from professional trainers, they have begun to compete at recognized dressage shows, a long-time goal.

“We plan to go to three show this summer at Maffit Lake [near Des Moines, Iowa],” she says. “I can’t do without her.” They spend time together every day as Ellen is doing chores and riding.

Meet Judy, the Author

As for me, I adopted a rescued yearling in 2004 named Coach, a Hackney. In 2021 he had a pasture accident and had to be put down, which was very traumatic for me.

The mare that shared the pasture with him left, so no horses remained on my property. I decided I needed to find a quiet horse for myself, my kids, and my friends. I found Nellie at a small farm 90 minutes away; her teenage owner had outgrown her.

I made two trips with friends to meet and ride Nellie before trailering her home. Her age was uncertain, maybe 10 or 11. They never got papers, but called her a Quarter Horse, which seems correct. She’d had a healthy foal that year. She is pretty and quiet.

She and the older Percheron-cross we board for a friend got along from the beginning. Gracie is huge but sweet. Nellie and I connected during the first year. She calls to me from the pasture when I am in the house. She was ridden with western and English saddles.

I’m not riding now and have not been able to find someone to ride her, but she is a happy horse. These two are the quietest horses we have ever had. I put on their masks, groom and spray them in our large dry lot with no halters or lead ropes. They don’t spook or run from crop dusters or large farm equipment. They come for dinner when called.

Getting Back into Horse Ownership

All four women, including four myself, have gone through the process of asking difficult questions.

Why buy a horse now? We found ourselves with room in our hearts to fill after losing or selling our previous horses. Two decided on young horses, knowing their needed training would be long and costly.

Three met trainers who could ride their horses for them. As long-time owners, we already knew the realities of horse ownership, how much help was needed, and where to find it.

If you’re thinking of getting back into horse ownership, think first of the horse’s wellbeing. You need a safe and well-maintained barn, whether at home or a boarding facility.

If at home, you’ll need a backup person to provide the horse care when you can’t. You must have a budget that will accommodate the numerous additional expenses that come with adding a horse to the family.

We all need to have plans for our horses and pets when we are no longer present. If you’re at the beginning of your riding life, you may not have thought of a future after you’re gone. Longtime horse owners tend to be more prepared and plan for this step. This is important to consider before jumping into horse ownership—for horse lovers of any age.

But as you look out into the pasture and feel that space in your heart has been filled, all of the time, financial and organizational challenges seem worth it.

This article about riding a new horse later in life appeared in the October 2023 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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A few years ago, when my daughter joined 4-H, she decided she wanted to show her horse for the first time at our county fair. I’ve had horses for a long time, but horse shows? That was brand new territory for us; we’re more of a trail riding family. So, I had to dive in and learn a whole lot of new things. Some tips came from other experienced equestrians, but most lessons I had to figure out the hard way.

The thing I love most about horses is that no matter how long you’ve been around them or how much you think you know, there’s always something new to learn. It got me thinking—what advice would seasoned horse people share with beginner equestrians? Because, let’s be honest, it’s so much better to learn from others’ experiences than the hard way.

Below, experienced equestrians share mistakes that beginner horse people often make and how to avoid them.

Not Double-Checking Everything

“Double-check gates, stall doors, and the water spigot before leaving the barn.” – Vicki Barker Hagerman

Whether you board your horse or keep them at home, someone is footing the utility bill. Leaving a hose running or lights on all night isn’t just wasteful—it’s expensive. And leaving a door or gate unlocked? That could mean theft or, even worse, a horse on the loose. Don’t even get me started on leaving the feed door open. Houdini horses can eat themselves sick—or worse. Take Santa’s advice: make a list and check it twice.

Not Tying Horses Securely

“Tie horses to something solid—not a rollaway trash can, swing set, or car door latch!” – Marlene Amos Sanders

Horses are experts at scaring themselves. If they’re tied to something that moves easily, a simple spook can turn into a runaway disaster. And gates? Avoid them too. Horses can push through or even get their heads stuck, which is a recipe for heartbreak.

“Learn to properly tie a lead rope so you can untie it easily if a horse pulls tight.” – Charlie Brown

Speaking of ropes, emergencies happen. You don’t want to wrestle with a complicated knot when every second counts. A quick-release knot is a lifesaver, and you can learn it in minutes with a few online videos.

Not Leading Horses Properly

“Don’t wrap lead ropes around your hand.” – Marla Miles

It’s easy to fall into the habit of looping a rope for a better grip, but it’s really risky. Even experienced horsemen have gotten seriously injured—or worse—when ropes are wrapped around their hands or thrown over their shoulders. Always keep your hands and body clear of any rope loops, and never lead a horse by just his halter either. And here’s another tip: never stand or sit directly in front of a horse. When they get spooked, they’ll usually bolt straight forward away from danger, and that’s the last place you want to be.

Dangerous Trailering Practices

“Always untie your horse’s head and attach a lead rope before opening the rear door and dropping the butt bar. Otherwise, the horse may panic and hurt itself.” – Kathy Lunsford

“Don’t tie horses in trailers with bungee snaps. Too many have lost an eye that way.” – Sharon Redmon

Trailering horses is a science and an art. We protect our horse with leg wraps and eye shields; you never know when hay will fly around or a hard stop could cause them to lose balance. And double-check the truck and trailer connections and test the lights before heading out. A small oversight can quickly escalate into a dangerous situation, so take your time and do it right.

Choosing the Wrong Farrier

“Pick a farrier that knows what they are doing because if they don’t, they can ruin your horse. My daughter’s horse stood camped in when we got him but the farrier fixed the angles and now he stands correctly.” – Kathleen Albin

Choosing the right farrier is key, whether your horse just needs a trim, a new set of shoes, or some rehab care. Imagine wearing wedge sandals without a break for a few days—and then switching them around and wearing them backward. Your feet would be sore, right? Well, if a horse’s hooves aren’t trimmed at the right angle, it can cause serious pain and even lead to bone issues in the hoof. Always ask for references from trusted sources, including your veterinarian. 

Failing to Check Equipment

“Check your equipment for wear—especially latigos and stirrup leathers. I used a friend’s saddle, the horse crow-hopped, and the saddle—and I—went flying.” – Vicki Barker Hagerman

Take a few extra minutes to ensure everything is in good condition, fits properly, and is securely fastened. Everyone has mishaps, but you don’t want to discover your tack’s issues while flying toward the ground.

Improper Feeding Practices

“We fed our horse two flakes of hay in the morning and two flakes at night. When he got an ulcer, the vet told us to use a slow feeder. He’s never had a problem since.” -Krickett S. 

You might think since wild horses graze on grass, shrubs, and whatever they can find, it’s fine to feed your horse the same way. But that’s not quite the case. Proper equine nutrition is crucial, and each horse has its own individual dietary needs. For example, different breeds have different needs, and some are tougher than others.

The key point to remember is that horses need to eat regularly throughout the day to prevent acid buildup in their stomach, which can lead to ulcers. This is why, in the quote above, slow feeders are often a great choice for your horse. At the end of the day, your horse’s nutrition is all about providing the right balance to keep him healthy and happy.

Also Read: 8 Horse Feeding Mistakes to Avoid

Not Asking Permission

“Always ask before tending to another person’s horse, even if it seems like common sense.” – Laurie Ball

Sometimes when we see something happening, we want to jump in and be good helpers, but it’s not always the best idea. Good intentions can sometimes lead to bad outcomes. Unless it’s an emergency, always check with a horse’s owner before stepping in to help. The same goes for borrowing property—ask before you use someone else’s gear.

Making a Mess

“Avoid leaving halters attached to cross ties—it’s an accident waiting to happen.” – Stephanie Fries Tippmann

There’s nothing worse than walking through the aisleway and stepping in a big pile of poo because someone didn’t clean up after their horse. Cleaning up isn’t just about courtesy; it’s about safety. A cluttered barn aisle or misplaced gear can lead to injuries for horses and people alike. Plus, nobody wants to step in something—or trip over something—that shouldn’t be there.

Not Being Prepared

“Wearing your cowboy hat backward in a class: been there.” – Katie Hester

“Forgetting gear like boots or helmets is a common mishap at shows. As a kids’ lesson instructor, I’ve seen it all—from missing show patterns to leaving saddles at home!” – Hannah Grah

One time my daughter went into a hunt seat class and had the ride of her life. She ended up placing last because we forgot to put her number on. Don’t muck up your chances because you weren’t prepared. Preparation is key. Don’t lose your shot at a great ride because of a simple mistake, like forgetting your number or gear. Make a checklist, double-check your bag, and be sure to read the show rules before you load up.

Also Check Out: Download a Horse Show Checklist and Stall Card

Forgetting to Listen to Your Horse

Horses can’t use words, but they communicate plenty through their actions. Yes, there are moments when a horse will be feisty or hateful for no good reason but if there’s a persistent issue, there’s a good chance that your horse is in pain or he is confused with what you are asking, which causes frustration. Remember it’s always important to use positive reinforcement to work through behavioral issues and take the time to understand what your horse is trying to tell you. And, of course, your vet can be a great resource to get to the root of why your horse is acting up.

Also Read: Horse Safety: Why It Wasn’t the Horse’s Fault

Forgetting That Horses Can Be Unpredictable

“Listen to safety precautions—they exist for a reason” – Danielle Kuhn

Horses are prey animals, which means even the gentlest one can react unpredictably. Stay mindful, be cautious, and learn from your mistakes so you can handle each situation better next time.

Being Too Generous with Showsheen

One lesson that really stuck with me happened during my daughter’s first show with her horse, Sugar. We were getting Sugar ready for the halter class, and we sprayed her from top to bottom with Showsheen—a spray that makes your horse’s coat slick and shiny. Sugar’s coat looked amazing, glistening in the sunlight. She placed in her halter class, and we were feeling great.

Then came the western classes. After the showmanship class, we saddled Sugar up, and everything seemed fine until my daughter went to mount. The saddle slipped! I checked the straps, and they were tight enough, but even once she got on, she was sliding around like crazy. Talk about stressful! She still managed to pull through and win high point in her age group, but it was definitely a nerve-racking show day.

Later, when we were back at the barn, we told the barn owner about our mishap. She just laughed and said, “Oh yeah, that’s a mistake we’ve all made starting out.” Turns out, you should never be liberal with the Showsheen where the saddle goes—it makes everything way too slippery. That little tip was a total game-changer for us.

Key Takeaway

The bottom line? Horses are incredible teachers if we’re willing to listen and learn—from them and from seasoned equestrians. By sharing tips and stories, we can all grow into better, safer horse people.

Further Reading: 10 Common Horse Care Mistakes

This article about mistakes for beginner horse people to avoid is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Most of us have had an endless dialogue running through our minds about what that “right thing” is, and finally decided upon a course of action. Seems like that should alleviate any lingering doubts and put our minds at ease, right? Not always.

The bottom line for most horse owners is the welfare of the horse, yet some of us have a difficult time seeing past our own emotions enough to define what constitutes a good life for a horse.

Costly Vet Bills

All horse owners cross their fingers and hope they will never face a vet bill deeper than their pockets. We know the high probability of our horse getting a costly injury, colic scare, or disease, yet we rarely set aside money to cover a medical worst-case scenario. Then when disaster strikes or an injury requires long-term veterinary care, we find ourselves between the proverbial rock and a hard place.

A horse’s age, health history, prognosis for the current problem, and treatment expense become key determining factors when deciding on the next step. Sometimes the cost of treatment far exceeds an owner’s ability to pay.

Well-intentioned owners may extend the life of an old horse long past the time it should be humanely euthanized, or delay veterinary treatment because of their own inability to face facts. For them, anticipating grief takes precedence over the animal they can’t bear to part with.

Veterinarians are often on the front lines of this type of indecision, and usually help owners by recommending what would be in the best interest of the horse. This can be the clarifying information horse owners need to get past their emotional hesitations. Far too many distraught owners throw caution to the wind and take on substantial debt with no guarantee of a positive outcome.

If the horse is young with a survivable injury, someone may be willing to take on the cost of treatment in exchange for transfer of ownership. Many horses with a career-ending injury for one activity are often suitable for another less physically demanding one, or can live out their lives as companion animals.

If not already overcrowded, many horse rescue organizations are willing to go the extra mile for a horse with a good chance of survival and utility. They may have enough staff and volunteers to support longer recoveries.

If efforts to re-home your horse fail, humane euthanasia is always an option, yet it’s no simple solution, even when fully justified. Owners may find themselves on the defensive with family and friends who don’t understand why such a drastic measure is necessary.

Acceptance comes from knowing all other options have been considered. Animals don’t ponder the future the way we do, thus a life filled with pain is never preferable to a peaceful passing.

Firing Professional Help

Some of us see our horse trainer, riding instructor, and farrier more often than many relatives, and form long-term relationships that seem more like friendships than business acquaintances.

Occasionally, problems arise and you may need to terminate their services. You can take action and feel comfortable with your decision; explain your reasons for the change and keep the conversation from becoming personal.

Dismissing someone is much easier if you feel certain you are doing the right thing for your horse and word it that way.

Selling Your Horse to Save Money

Money is at the root of most horse/owner splits. A family that suddenly loses half of their income due to loss of a job or divorce must make financial sacrifices that cut straight to the heart.

Because horse ownership makes a big dent in everyone’s budget, it is often the most obvious expense to eliminate. Owners who board their horses can sometimes bargain for reduced fees by working as stable help, but boarding stable owners may already have the hired help they need.

Sadly, selling your horse may be the best resolution even though it’s the most emotionally painful. If you’re lucky, you may find a new owner who is amenable to your continuing involvement with your horse by share boarding, where you pay an agreed-upon amount to allow you several days per week of access to your horse. This can be a win-win arrangement with two riders keeping the horse fit and reducing expenses for the new owner.

Most sales, however, require you to cut ties with your horse when the buyer’s trailer heads down the driveway. A goodbye pet on the nose for a horse you’d prefer to keep is crushing.

If you do plan to share-board, always create a written agreement signed by both participants to avoid misunderstandings. Also, make sure boarding stable managers approve of this type of arrangement at their barn. Rules, regulations, and insurance coverage are all factors to understand and agree to before day one of a new share-board arrangement.

Editor’s Note: New grants and programs are helping horse owners faced with sudden financial difficulties so they can safely relinquish or even keep their horse. Learn more about equine safety net programs.

When Health Intervenes

Consider yourself lucky if you’ve never had to alter your riding activities due to your horse’s health or your own. Many competitors have had their dreams crushed the moment their horse took one bad step.

Disappointment is an understatement when you must withdraw from a competition that required years of training. Clearly, the welfare of the horse is paramount and the correct course of action usually obvious, yet emotional fallout is unavoidable.

Your own health may fail due to an accident, illness, surgery, pregnancy, or age-related issue that causes a diminished ability to ride or work safely with horses. Your body dictates what it can and cannot do, and riding may become beyond your physical capabilities.

This is a bitter pill to swallow for most of us, especially if we must rehome a beloved horse. The best way to soften the pain is to find a new owner who will care for your horse as lovingly as you do.

Filling the Horse Void

Owning a horse is not the only way to enjoy a life with them. Leasing or share-boarding provides a great opportunity for you to stay in the game. You’ll still incur costs, but far fewer than being responsible for all of them.

If riding is out of the question, volunteering at local rescue operations or teaching the basics to those new to horses are options. Sharing your experience and skills with others is often the healing salve for those who would feel lost without a connection to horses.

This article about a horse owner’s most difficult decisions appeared in the September 2023 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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The Ups & Downs of Boarding Your Horse

Hiring someone else to deal with the heavy lifting of horse care may sound like the “easier” option, but you may have limited say in how your horse is cared for and handled. The facilities may not be up to your standards, and you may or not be comfortable with barn policies or the services they provide.

While there are exemplary boarding facilities that place your horse’s welfare first and run their business with absolute integrity, there are also those that will cause you sleepless nights as you wonder whether your horse has enough water, if a loose fence board is going to cause an injury, or if someone is riding your horse without your consent.

When you board, you are basically renting space for your horse to live in someone else’s “home.” Your monthly payment should include safe housing; a low-stress environment; opportunities to run, play, socialize, and rest; shelter from inclement weather; access to quality forage; a balanced diet; and fresh, clean water. Generally speaking: a good quality of life; check out the Five Freedoms for equine welfare here.

You can increase the odds of finding a safe and suitable place for your horse with a bit of preparation and effort. Start with a complete list of all your must-haves before you meet with the farm manager.

Be picky! If your horse needs a dry lot in the spring, his hooves cleaned regularly, and a specific type of hay, find out if those services are available. Also ask for references from current and past boarders for a clearer perspective of day-to-day goings on.

Discuss fees up front. Some farms have a flat boarding rate with add-ons for additional services, such as holding horses during vet and farrier care. They may have policies regarding general health care, such as worming and vaccinations, that you’ll be required to follow.

Winter blanketing could be another added expense, and with the high cost of feed these days, the cold weather may also mean hay surcharges.

Ask questions about what your horse’s daily routine will be. Will he be turned out with other horses? Will it be a compatible herd group?

Some farms leave horses in whenever it rains, which can add up to several days in a stall, while others leave them out, no matter the weather.

Know when feeding time is, too, so you can plan your barn time around when your horse is happily eating instead of fretting about him missing a meal. Learn how barn management handles illness and injuries, too.

Former home horsekeeper Cindy Peden of Chapel Hill, Tenn., decided boarding was the right option for her in terms of overall enjoyment and peace of mind.

“While I miss having my girls right out my back door, boarding them has greatly reduced my stress level and allows me more time to just enjoy them,” she says. “I have more flexibility and freedom to do things like travel and spend time with family and friends. I have a wonderful boarding situation where I know my girls are well taken care of, and I get to see them often.”

Special Requirements to Consider

Feeding is one of the biggest worries for horse owners, and no two boarding barns do it the same. Some include supplemental feed in the cost of boarding. Others charge extra for anything in addition to hay or available pasture, while some won’t provide anything outside of forage and water.

If your horse is on a special diet, you may have to purchase the feed yourself. Try offering to pre-mix and bag your horse’s meals to make it faster and easier for the farm staff. Special requests do have an impact on farm routines, and may be impossible to meet or require an additional fee.

You may also find the barn is strict about what’s on the menu and unwilling to give your horse anything other than what they already offer, regardless of what he needs or you want him to have.

You may need to supplement your own hay at times, too, which can be difficult if your horse has pasture mates—you’ll have to pull him out of the field and wait while he eats.

Be upfront about all of your horse’s special requirements and quirks. That will give farm management the best chance at doing a good job for you and your horse. Ideally, the facility will provide a contract or agreement that details your horse’s needs, the farm’s obligations, and your responsibilities so everyone knows what to expect.

You deserve to have a great experience where your horse resides, so make sure the vibe of the barn suits you, too. If you prefer a casual culture, a competitive show barn may not be a good match. It will make your barn time happier if you find a place that’s in alignment with your sensibilities and has boarders with similar interests.

If you’re not interested in traditional boarding, but don’t own a property where your horse can dwell, look for a facility that offers “self-care.” Your monthly rent covers a space for your horse live and use of the facilities. It gives you the freedom to care for your horse as you wish, within the parameters of farm rules and regulations. It also means you’ll be responsible for feeding and cleaning, but you might be able to form a cooperative with other owners and share daily mealtimes and mucking chores.

Keeping Horses at Home

If your horse lives on your property, you have total and complete freedom. There are no rules except your own, and you’ll never have to question policy or be concerned about your horse’s well-being or care.

Oh, wait, isn’t that horses’ well-being or care? Horses are not solitary creatures. They need a herd group to feel safe, secure, and have their needs for social interaction met. One horse can, and should, quickly grow to two or even three, especially if there’s angst when one horse is left behind. The best herd mates will be other equines, but friendly farm animals can fill in, in a pinch.

Another way to increase your herd size is to invite other owners to board with you. Bringing on boarders might be a good way to offset costs, too.

It’s a common belief that having horses at home will save dough, but when it comes down to it, you might not be that far ahead. Feed, supplies, and maintenance add up—including your time and/or the price of paid help.

There are additional expenses, such as the purchase and upkeep of equipment, barn and fence repairs, and having manure hauled away if you’re unable to compost and/or spread it.

Also consider what you’ll spend on bedding, mud management, arena footing, pasture care, electricity, water, and unforeseen issues (busted pipes, insect and rodent control, tractor breakdowns, et cetera), all of which will require both your time and pocketbook to resolve.

“Having horses at home is a lot of work, more than I ever imagined,” says Ann Deklerk of Lynchburg, Tenn. “But it finally gives them true free choice, as it does me. At last, we can be on an even playing field.”

The bottom line is that wherever you house your horse, he should be safe and have all his needs met for a happy and healthy life. It should also be as stress-free for you as possible.

If your horse’s current accommodations aren’t hitting the mark, look into other options that might be a better fit. You both deserve to have great experiences and enjoy your time together to the fullest.

This article about the horsekeeping decision to keep horses at home or board them appeared in the September 2023 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Shortly after bringing her horse home to her Florida farm from a nearby boarding barn, Helen Yakin-Palmer looked up from her desk to find her mare, Cera, peering at her through the office window.

“It was a wonderful surprise,” Yakin-Palmer recalls. “It’s the upside of keeping a horse at home.”

In fact, it’s what some horse owners—especially prospective ones—dream about. But keeping a horse at home is not as simple as it seems. And keeping one anywhere—whether a farm or a boarding barn—is not an inexpensive proposition. Either way, providing for its needs makes all the difference between a horse that is thriving and one in danger of becoming a welfare statistic, whether he is a performance horse, a trail horse or a companion equine.

Your Costs May Vary

Annual horsekeeping expenses vary widely. Here’s a rough look at the major expenses and what they’ll cost per year on the low end and high end for the cost of owning a horse.

Overall Horse Ownership Cost

“The No. 1 reason why horses go into rescue or are sold is because people realize that they can’t afford them,” says Nicole Maubert-Walukewicz, founder of the Palmetto Equine Awareness and Rescue League (PEARL) in Anderson, S.C.

As most horse owners know, the cost of keeping the horse is usually greater than the cost of purchasing it.

“The cost of the horse is going to be the least expenditure an owner is going to make,” says Amy McLean, Ph.D., equine lecturer (PSOE) in the Department of Animal Sciences at the University of California. “You are going to spend more taking care of it.”

So how much can owners expect to spend on horsekeeping? Calculating costs can be complicated. While some expenses, such as basic veterinary and farrier fees, are relatively consistent over time, others vary from state to state, region to region and year to year, such as feed and hay.

Horse Ownership Cost: Horse Feed

According to the Unwanted Horse Coalition, (UHC) a horse’s dietary requirements depend on its breed, activity level and age. For example, horses with extensive training and show schedules generally require more feed and forage than horses that are only occasionally under saddle or are not ridden at all. Likewise, older horses may need to eat more just to maintain good body condition.

Generally, a healthy horse should consume at least 1.5 percent of his body weight in forage daily. For some owners, that means making sure the horse has lots of grazing time on pasture, supplemented by high-quality hay. But hay costs vary depending on your location, the volume of the local hay crop, and how far the hay must be transported. As a result, the cost of hay is higher in California than it is in the Midwest, for example.

“Hay is a large and regionally-produced crop that is shipped long distances, so problems in some areas won’t necessarily impact price,” says Daniel H. Putnam, Ph.D., extension agronomist and forage specialist in the Department of Plant Sciences at UC Davis.

In Florida, Yakin-Palmer pays $13.50 to $15.50 per bale for hay. Meanwhile, trainer Clarissa Cupolo recalls buying hay annually by the ton.

“In New Jersey, we had to buy hay by the ton,” says Cupolo. “We would pay $2,000 for hay to feed six horses for a whole year.”

Horses’ diets can also include feed, either commercially manufactured or locally milled. Those costs can vary too, depending on where the feed is milled and where ingredients are grown.

A 50-pound bag of commercially formulated equine feed runs anywhere from $15 to $35; the average stabled horse eats 5 to 15 pounds per day. Don’t forget to add onto this the cost of any supplements you feed, which can vary widely.

Horse Ownership Cost: Hoof Care and Veterinary Expenses

Aside from meeting their horses’ dietary needs, owners must also provide routine veterinary and other professional care to keep their animals healthy. In general, those costs do not fluctuate much from month to month or year to year. Nevertheless, having a plan to finance these costs is critical.

For example, veterinarians generally charge $25 to $75 for a basic farm call, which covers the cost of the veterinarian traveling to the horse’s location. Frequently the owners of horses kept at boarding barns split farm call costs when all the horses residing at the barn receive vaccinations at the same time.

Once the veterinarian has arrived, routine vaccinations, including rabies, tetanus, West Nile, EEE and WEE, range from $75 to $150, according to Jennifer Williams, Ph.D., executive director and founder of the Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society and author of How To Start and Run A Rescue. While some vaccinations are administered annually, booster inoculations represent an additional cost, and an additional farm visit.

General health care costs should also include $50 to $150 for annual teeth floating. Additional dental work generally adds a cost of $100 or more depending upon what the horse needs.

But veterinarians are not the only professionals that help keep a horse healthy. All horses require routine farrier care every four to eight weeks, whether they are shod or not. Cost for trimming a barefoot horse may range between $25 and $40 ($150 to $240 annually), Williams says. Routine farrier care for shod horses ranges between $50 and $150 per visit, or $300 to $1,200 annually, she says.

“If your horse is lame or develops problems with his feet, he may need more frequent farrier work or the assistance of a specialist, which will cost much more,” she points out.

Horse Ownership Cost: Unexpected Vet Emergencies

But even if owners budget for the best routine care, all horses are at risk for injury or illness. When that happens, an emergency farm visit can cost as much as $100 before the veterinarian even begins to treat the animal’s condition. More serious treatment can require transporting the horse to an equine clinic, or even surgery.

That’s something Yakin-Palmer learned when Cera required surgery after a severe colic episode.

“The bill was $15,000 in veterinary, hospital and aftercare costs,” she says. “That’s why people should have an emergency fund for their horses if they can.”

Insurance policies are also available. One type is directly through veterinary equine practices, where owners pay an annual fee that covers routine services, such as vaccinations and farm calls, as well as for reduced “deductibles” for surgeries and other major services.

Other policies are available through equine health and liability insurance. Some supplement companies, such as SmartPak and Platinum Performance, offer a program to cover the costs of colic surgery with a qualifying order and routine wellness care from your vet.

Costs of Boarding vs. Home Horsekeeping

Some novice owners believe that horsekeeping costs will be lower if the animal is kept at home as opposed to being boarded at a local barn. But that’s not always the case, says McLean. Owners who intend to keep their horses at home must factor real estate costs into the horsekeeping equation and balance it against that of boarding.

“For example, real estate costs can be $700,000 to $1 million for 2 acres if you want your own horse facility,” California-based McLean points out. “But boarding costs can run between $400 to $700 for full board, depending on the facility. Barns where Olympic-level horses are boarded can run between $1,200 and $1,500 a month.”

The cost of basic services, such as stall cleaning, turnout, hay and feeding are typically included with full-care board.

At some facilities, blanketing and holding a horse for a farrier or veterinarian is also included, says Clarissa Cupolo, owner of Gemini Performance Horses in Florida. Owners must still pay their own bills for these services, however. Elsewhere, horse handling is passed on to owners at an hourly or per-service rate.

Still, boarding a horse may be most cost-effective for some owners.

“For example, if you have to travel for work, you may want to board your horses,” says McLean. “Also, you have to factor in the cost of your hours feeding your horses, cleaning their stalls, turning them out, et cetera.”

These facts are not lost on Yakin- Palmer, who boarded both her horses before she brought them home.

“Keeping your horses at home is certainly limiting,” she says. “You have to have a flexible schedule, and you have to be there. I work at home so my schedule is flexible, but I can’t just take a vacation; my vacation is being with my horses.”

Ultimately, each owner must decide how to calculate—and afford—the cost of horse ownership. To do that, Maubert-Walukewicz advises prospective owners to gather opinions from local horse owners before they purchase a horse.

“Find out what the costs are [in your area], what kind of work is involved, and what they think of keeping a horse at home versus boarding it,” she says.

For her, the choice was simple.

“I spend about $4,800 a year on keeping my horses at home,” she says. “I’m the one feeding them, taking care of them, and interacting with them every day, so I know them much better than I would if they were boarded. But even if the cost is equal, that choice is not for everybody. Whatever you choose, you have to do what’s best for the horse.”

This article about the cost of horse ownership originally appeared in Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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If you’ve never been a part of purchasing a horse before, be warned, it can be a little stressful. Horses are a big investment, and even if you aren’t the one paying for it, you’ll be investing your time and talents into it. It’s important to do your homework beforehand so that not only will your horse-buying experience be a positive one, but you’ll also make the best choices to purchase the right horse. This guide will be your best friend as you prepare for buying a horse.

Hold Your Horses

First off, it’s important to remember that unless you know the horse already, there’s a lot to consider. Many times you have to look at and try out several horses before you find the perfect match. It’s an exciting experience, but letting your “excited” emotions take over can mean that you don’t get exactly what you want. Let’s take a look at some questions you need to ask and things you need to look for before buying a horse.

Things to Ask Before You Go Look at the Horse

◆ Ask the horse’s age and if it’s been verified by a vet or equine dentist.

◆ Ask about the horse’s history and if there are health concerns.

◆ Ask if the horse has any vices and why they are selling the horse.

◆ Ask how the horse behaves with other horses.

◆ Ask if the horse is suitable for a beginner, advanced beginner, or advanced rider.

◆ Ask if the horse ever leaves the farm and what he’s primarily used for. If you plan on showing, a trail horse that is only used for trail riding might not be a great fit unless you can devote time to lots of arena training.

◆ Ask if the horse is barn or buddy sour.

◆ Ask if the horse loads and trailers well.

◆ Ask if you can have access to the vet records and if the owner welcomes a pre-purchase exam.

◆ If the owner asks for a deposit to come look at the horse, dig deeper. Oftentimes, these are scams.

Things to Look For on the Ground

Is the Horse Hard to Catch?

When you pull up to the barn, the first thing you need to see is if the horse is already stabled or tied up for you. This can be a warning sign that the horse is hard to catch. You can always ask the owner if he’s easy to catch or not, but remember that not everyone is honest.

Is the Horse Sweaty?

The second thing you need to look for is if the horse has been worked before you arrived. Unless you are looking for a “project” horse, you want one that you can ride straight from the field without having a trainer run off his energy to make him rideable for you.

How Does the Horse Respond to Being Groomed?

While the horse is tied up, brush the horse down. Is he antsy while being tied? Can you spray him with fly spray? If you plan on blanketing, how does he respond to having a blanket put on his back? Can the owner easily pick up and hold all four feet?

What is the Horse’s Standing Posture Like?

Ask the owner to walk the horse in a circle and stop. Take a look at his responsiveness to his handler. Evaluate his gait. And pay special attention to his standing posture. The way the horse stands can tell you a lot about his soundness. If he’s parked out (standing with legs far apart) or has his legs parked in (standing with legs close together), this can be a sign of hoof or back pain unless the horse is a breed that naturally parks out. If the horse frequently shifts his weight on his front feet, that could be a sign of navicular disease. If you see any of these behaviors, it’s not necessarily a deal-breaker but it’s a good idea to take note of them and talk to your veterinarian about them during your pre-purchase exam.

How Does the Horse Respond to Being Saddled?

Pay attention to the horse’s attitude about being saddled. Many horses can be a little grouchy when you tighten the girth, but if a horse turns into a fire-breathing dragon with a mane, it might mean that he has back or ulcer issues. Also, check to see if the horse easily takes the bridle or if he holds his head up when you try to put the bridle on or freaks out when you take it off.

Things to Look For In the Saddle

Always ask the owner to ride first. Not only can you see if the horse is safe before you get on, but you can also see how the horse moves from the ground. Ask the owner to walk, trot and canter.

Can the Rider Easily Get on the Horse?

Does the horse stand still for the rider to get on from the ground? Will he stand quietly next to a mounting block or is he moving away and walking off?

Is the Horse Sound?

Pay attention to the legs. Is the horse short-striding on one leg? Is it “bunny hopping” in a canter? Again, a limp could be the result of something like a small field injury but it could also mean big trouble for the long-term soundness of the horse. If you see any soundness issues, consult with your vet.

How is the Horse Holding His Head?

A horse’s head position can tell you about his soundness. If a horse is bobbing his head excessively in a trot, this can be a sign of front-end lameness, another sign of navicular. A horse that holds his head extremely high during the trot or canter can either need more training, have mouth or teeth issues, or could be indicating pain either from saddle fit or lameness.

Does the Horse Know His Leads?

When the horse is cantering, pay attention to the leads. Although a good trainer can teach you and the horse how to get the correct lead, it’s still something to look for if you plan on showing the horse.

Can You Ride the Horse Off by Himself?

One of the most frustrating bad habits a horse can develop is barn and buddy sourness. This means a horse gets anxiety when he leaves behind his home and friends. Even if you plan on using the horse for trail riding with others, it’s important that he has the confidence to leave them without a fight.

How Do You Feel About the Horse?

If this horse is checking all your boxes, the next thing to ask yourself is how you feel. It’s important to be honest with yourself here. Sometimes we get caught up in a horse’s color or the excitement of the day but we need to stop and take time to really feel the horse’s energy. Does he have a comfortable gait? Do you feel safe? Is he friendly on the ground? Can you see yourself connecting with this horse?

I’ve Asked All the Questions — Now What?

Just remember, if you really like the horse but there’s an issue with something mentioned above, talk to the owner—and, if applicable, your trainer—about your concerns. If it’s not the right fit, it’s okay to walk away. It’s also okay to take a moment to think about your decision and discuss your feelings with trusted individuals like a trainer. And the importance of a pre-purchase exam by a licensed veterinarian is paramount. They can be a bit pricey but are worth it if it keeps you from purchasing a horse that you can’t ride or isn’t exactly what you want.

And the most important thing—have fun with it. Buying a horse is a huge decision but an exciting one. Enjoy the experience of riding other horses and searching for your new best friend!

This ultimate guide of questions to ask when buying a horse is a web exclusive for Young Rider and Horse Illustrated magazines. Click here to subscribe!

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Open Admissions Grant

Laurie Jackson, executive director of Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary (HTFAS) in Ravenna, Ohio, knows firsthand the value of being a grant recipient. Happy Trails was recently awarded financial assistance as part of the ASPCA’s goal to expand its open admissions programs. Grant funding, available to ASPCA Adoption Partners, enabled her organization to expand its reach to help more horses.

Jackson has been with the 22-year-old program for the last 10 years. During that time, she has witnessed a shift in referrals, thanks in large part to the grant, from law enforcement to owner relinquishment. This means horses are receiving early, proactive help, keeping them safe and healthy before they fall at further risk of becoming neglected.

“I think one of the unique things about us is that we were afforded the grant after we had become Partners of The ASPCA Right Horse program, and we latched on to the example they were setting,” Jackson says. “That’s when we went from a mission statement that only accepted law enforcement cases to modeling our organization to the examples and guidance they have given us.”

The grant further allowed the organization to promote the open admissions model.

“One of the things the grant did was provide funding for a staff member that could focus on our equine outreach and evaluation,” she says. “It also gave us a push and support to show us that we could do it.”

Jackson says that there are always going to be horses in need out there. “But they are out there whether or not they are on our waiting list.”

With the grant, she says, they are no longer afraid of the waiting list.

According to HTFAS Equine Placement Coordinator Audra Agnone, the grant has advanced the organization’s ability to bring horses in before they reach the point that they would be considered an equine cruelty case. For example, last year, with only a 12-stall barn, the organization was able to help 62 horses.

“You don’t need a 100-stall barn,” says Jackson. “There are other ways to help horses than to bring them in and take them into your charge.” She adds that the program has even been able to provide counseling for humane euthanasia when that was the best option for an individual horse.

It’s that welcoming and guiding approach that allows the organization to create a relationship that facilitates locating where the true problem stems from and then using that information to proactively help equines, whether that be by receiving veterinary care at home or going to Happy Trails for safe rehoming.

Vet Direct Safety Net

A second equine safety net program is known as Vet Direct Safety Net (VDSN). The essence of the program is groundbreaking in that it seeks to keep horses at home. In 2016 and 2017, the ASPCA completed surveys to determine why owned horses were being surrendered and/or sent to auction.

“They found out that many horses had an immediate welfare need at the same time the owner had some kind of financial emergency,” says Sarah Coleman, VDSN administrator. “These horses are loved, but the owners knew they couldn’t provide the medical care needed, so they opted to send the horse to an auction or rescue in hopes that someone would be able to afford to address the issue.”

The potential success of this program was evident from the beginning.

“It worked so well that when the ASPCA piloted it in 2020, they gave the program over to the Foundation for the Horse [the charitable arm of the American Association of Equine Practitioners] to administer,” says Coleman.

Upon this discovery, the ASPCA went back and asked the owners if they had a grant of funds that addressed their equine’s emergent need, would they have kept the horse? The overwhelming response was yes.

How It Works

Detecting this led to the development of VDSN. Coleman explains that when the program shifted to the Foundation, the ASPCA provided a $50,000 grant with the reins of the program to keep it funded and moving forward.

The funding is used to provide one-time financial assistance of up to $600 per horse to care for an immediate welfare need for an owner who is struggling financially. Proof of need is not required.

Funds are dedicated for immediate, practical welfare needs where if the horse is not assisted, his health and wellbeing will suffer. Coleman lists examples of permissible expenses as choke, stitches, staples, non-surgical colic, and even humane euthanasia when that is the best option.

Veterinarians involved with the program have the autonomy to identify at-risk equines in need of services, and reimbursement is free of red tape. Many participating veterinarians share that they want to help all equines and owners, and this allows them to do good work for vulnerable horses in their community—work that they might have been doing unpaid previously. VDSN provides a sustainable way to help.

So far, 169 solo practitioners are enrolled in the program, which also boasts 106 enrolled veterinary practices.

“These are multi-doctor practices,” Coleman says. Every practice with one enrolled veterinarian qualifies to take part in the program. So far, 156 horses have been helped, with 23 necessitating humane euthanasia.

Spreading the Word

Enrolling in the program is a simple process that is open to any AAEP member veterinarian. Veterinarians interested in taking part should first contact the Foundation for the Horse at SueStivers@aaep.org. Next, two forms will need to be completed, along with a 20-minute telephone onboarding completed by Coleman.

Enrolled veterinarians are immediately eligible to use funds for clients they feel fit the program. If it was not a euthanasia case, someone from the ASPCA will contact the owner within a few months of the equine’s emergency to see if they still own the horse.

“Those numbers, so far, have been overwhelmingly positive,” Coleman says. “A one-time financial gift allows horse owners to keep owned horses in their homes, which frees up shelter and rescue space to care for those horses who are truly in need.”

Christie Schulte Kappert, senior director of ASPCA Equine Welfare, recommends making your veterinarian aware of the VDSN program and asking them about their willingness to participate.

“We’re trying to create a large network of veterinarians out there that can do good and get paid for their work,” she says.

This article about equine safety net programs appeared in the November/December 2023 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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