Number 10 Make a Plan! Heidi's Top 10 Equine Stewardship Practises

Heidi's Top 10 Equine Stewardship Practises. I don't want to tell anyone what to do, or give out free "advice".  But, I do want to encourage responsible horsemen to think more deeply.  Many people do not think things through, and actually say or influence others with statements that are not accurate.  If horsemen took the time to think things through, they may act differently in some situations.  Perhaps, these practises which I strive to abide by, may help others develop their own top 10 stewardship practises. So, what does the responsible horsemen do to demonstrate stewardship?

Number 10 - Create a Business Plan!

A colleague told me his daughter had presented him with a business plan for horse ownership a few years ago. He and his wife were not horsemen, but they were exemplary planners and the daughter's case won their support. They had a wonderful 3 years with the horse she purchased and sold the animal to an equally good home when the time came to move on.  Horse crazy kids trying to convince their parents they should have a horse, take note.  Parents, what an opportunity for teaching life skills!    

A good plan should include the initial cost of a horse trained to do what you want to do, additional training if required, the cost of board or feed, fencing and shelter at home, coaching, equipment required, and the cost of reselling your horse to a good home if that is your plan, vet and farrier costs, travel costs, membership fees, and the cost of competing in your chosen sport, and dollars tucked aside for unforeseen circumstances. As well, many people give lifetime homes to their equine partners. When the time comes to say good bye, a kind end on the farm without any transport to an unfamiliar place is in the best interest of the horse.  Euthanasia by a vet at the horses home and transport of the body to a rendering plant, or even burial on the farm costs money - keep a few hundred dollars aside for this. Talk to any experienced horsemen to gather expense details for your complete business plan.  And here is the clincher, if you can not really afford your own horse, consider a lease, or trade work on a farm for riding privileges. If you want something enough, you can make it happen, but take your time and make the best choices for you and your potential horse.

We plan our rides into the backcountry, we should also plan for the horses we purchase.
Photo credit: E. Eggert