Before buying a horse it is important to consider the costs of keeping a horse to ensure it is affordable and there are also costs incurred in looking for and buying a horse that need to be considered which are summarised below.

Viewing and Vetting

Looking around for a horse or pony to buy is the first expense to be incurred on the path to horse ownership. Looking at potential purchases may mean travelling many miles to view a horse or pony and when a suitable horse is found it is wise to have the horse vetted. This can cost between £75-£250 depending on whether a basic insurance or 5 stage vetting is carried out and of course if one potential purchase fails the vetting or the purchase falls through for another reason it is necessary to start over again.

Purchase Cost

The cost of buying the horse or pony can vary immensely depending on the age, experience and type of horse and may be anything from £100 for a youngster upwards to several thousands of pounds for a more experienced horse.

Sales Agreement

Once a purchase is agreed it can be wise to tie up the purchase with a legal document setting out the terms for the sale of the horse or pony. This can be done through a solicitor at a cost of around £100.

Equipment

Many horses and ponies are sold with their existing tack, or their existing tack may be available to purchase from the seller at a reasonable price. However, if no tack or equipment is available then this is an additional expense to be considered. A synthetic or second-hand saddle can cost from around £200 upwards with bridles available for £20 upwards. However a new leather saddle can cost around £700 and a good quality bridle can be expected to cost in the region of £50.

Unless to be totally stabled, depending on the type of horse and its use the horse or pony may need two turnout rugs for winter. It is necessary to have two turnout rugs so that when one is wet or being repaired, the second can be used. Turnout rugs can cost £80 upwards and for the stabled horse in winter, or one kept in a stable at night then a Stable Rug or two will also be needed for extra warmth costing around £50 or more each.

There is also other equipment that will be needed to be purchased such as headcollar, leadrope, numnahs, tackbox and grooming kit so there is likely to be another £150 or so to spend out in preparing for horse ownership.