It is a childhood dream shared by many – owning a pony or a horse! It’s true, ponies and horses make fabulous pets that the whole family can enjoy, but they can be a lot of work! Before you buy a horse in Brisbane, read on to find out if a pony or horse is right for your family.
Buying a horse – a long term commitment
So your child has been going to pony club for a while now, and they just have to have one of their own. Sound familiar?
Owning a pony or horse is a great way to teach children about responsibility. It’s also a lot of fun! Horses make great companion animals that become beloved members of the family. Horse riding can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike, and for some it becomes a past time and a passion that will grow with them long after they leave childhood behind.
It is, however, a big commitment. A lot of people don’t realise the time and money that is required in horse ownership.
Horses and ponies require daily exercise, feeding and grooming. Ever heard the term “eat like a horse”? You will soon learn where it was coined from after seeing what they eat in a day!
On top of food, companion horses and ponies come with added expenses such as riding gear, vet bills and maintenance. Be prepared to spend an average of $200 – $300 a month, and a couple of hours a day with your companion.
If your child loses interest in their pony or horse, are you prepared to take on the responsibility for years to come? There are few other hobbies that come with the ongoing commitment as owning a horse. Consider the age of your child, and just how invested they are likely to be for the long term.
Finding a home for your horse
If you decide to buy a pony or a horse in Brisbane, the first step is finding a suitable place to keep them. Brisbane City Council has a list of what must be met in order to be approved as a domestic horse owner.
If you buy a horse in Brisbane, consider the distance from the stable to your home – you will be making frequent visits!
By nature, horses live in herds, and are rarely seen alone. It is very important for their wellbeing to have a companion – horses left alone for extended periods act out with “stressed’ behaviours and will become increasingly unhappy. If you only want to take on a single animal, sharing a suitable space with another horse owner can be a great solution for this.
For more information on buying a horse in Brisbane, contact your local RSPCA for information and advice.
