The outside of a horse is good for the inside of a man.
- Winston Churchill

Female horseman with Thoroughbred horse in stable

How much does it cost to keep a horse?

The cost of keeping a horse can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the location where the horse is kept, the type of care the horse requires, and the age and breed of the horse. Some estimates put the average monthly cost of keeping a horse at around $500, but this amount can be higher or lower depending on the specific needs of the horse.

Here are some of the main costs that may be associated with keeping a horse:

  1. Boarding: This includes the cost of providing a place for the horse to live, which can range from $200 to $1,000 or more per month depending on the type of facility and the level of care provided.

  2. Feed and hay: The cost of feeding a horse can vary depending on the type and amount of feed needed, as well as the cost of hay. It is generally recommended that a horse be fed between 1.5% and 2% of its body weight in forage (hay or pasture) per day, which can add up to several hundred dollars per month.

  3. Vet care: Regular vet care is essential for the health and well-being of a horse, and this can include things like vaccinations, dental care, and emergency care. The cost of vet care can range from a few hundred dollars per year for basic care to several thousand dollars or more for more intensive treatment.

Can horses sleep standing up?

Yes, horses are able to sleep standing up. In fact, horses are generally able to get most of their sleep while standing up, although they do lie down to sleep occasionally, especially when they are in a more relaxed environment or when they are sick or injured.

Horses are able to sleep standing up because of their unique anatomy. They have a natural “stay apparatus” in their legs that allows them to lock their legs in place and take the weight off their hooves, allowing them to stand still for long periods of time without tiring. When a horse is standing, it is able to take short naps by nodding its head down and entering a state of light sleep, while still being able to respond quickly to any potential threats.

Horses that are kept in a pasture or field with access to shelter may lie down to sleep more frequently than those that are kept in a stable, as they have more opportunity to do so. However, it is still common for horses to sleep standing up, especially when they are in a stable or other confined space where they may not have as much room to lie down.

 

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