Equestrian sports are a fairly expensive hobby, mostly because of the high horse ownership costs. Many people who dream of a horse of their own initially only think of the already high cost of buying a horse. What many overlook, though, is that, as with any other pet, it isn't a one-time investment: the considerable ongoing horse ownership costs have to go into the equation too.

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Horse ownership costs: what makes horses so expensive?

First of all, horse ownership costs keep coming in all year round. As large, muscular working animals, horses naturally have high energy needs, and the amount of feed a full-grown horse needs each month shouldn't be underestimated. Horse ownership costs also include boarding fees, taxes and possibly care fees. Many horse owners don't have room to keep their horse at home, so they pay for a spot at a boarding stable or riding club.

And of course, such a stately animal wants to be well looked after and ridden out. If you work and can't always find the time to look after your horse yourself, you'll hardly get around paying a caretaker.

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Horse ownership costs: always well in the saddle

Horse ownership costs of course don't stop at the stable and feed. For most people, a horse of their own is first and foremost a hobby. Regular trail rides in the countryside are a matter of course and essential for the horse's health. For trail rides you need a saddle and bridle, and depending on quality and comfort for horse and rider, this gear can get really expensive.

And of course, the horse's hooves mustn't be neglected either. They need good care and fresh shoes at appropriate intervals.

Horse ownership costs: vet visits add up fast

One of the biggest, but unfortunately also least predictable, factors when calculating horse ownership costs is the vet. Like any pet, horses fall ill now and then and need medical care. There are vets who specialize in large animals like horses and can help your darling back on its hooves, but examinations are time-consuming and rarely cheap. So you should definitely include any vet visits in your horse ownership costs. With such high purchase costs, it should go without saying that you can take proper care of your darling, shouldn't it? That's why it's important to sort out the financing of a horse in advance.