- Horse ownership is prevalent in rural U.S. homes but requires significant investment and space provisions.
- Horses are excellent companions, improve quality of life, add aesthetic value, and provide educational experiences.
- Horses can be profitable with the right breeding, training, and investment in an equestrian business.
- Home renovations for horses include a horse barn, fencing, designated feed and water areas, a tack room, and an arena.
- Despite the investment, horse ownership offers companionship and profitability, making it a rewarding addition to country homes.
There’s nothing quite like the charm of a countryside home. The wide expanse of land, the fresh air, and the stunning view of rolling hills. The perfect addition to any country home? Horses! They make for a lovely addition to the property and come with many benefits. Here are the top reasons to consider getting horses for your country home. Here’s what you need to know about horse ownership in the country, reasons to invest in horses for your country home, and how to prepare your country home for horses.
Horse Ownership in The U.S.
It’s estimated that more than one million households in the U.S. own horses. Ownership of horses is most prevalent in rural areas, with open fields and plenty of space for the animals to roam. Despite this popularity, horse ownership can be expensive due to the cost of feed and maintenance supplies like tack, grooming kits, and veterinary care. Plus, you need plenty of acreage to properly house them and the necessary fencing to keep them safe.
Reasons To Invest In Horses For Your Country Home
Despite the upfront costs associated with horse ownership, many benefits come with having horses in your country home. Here are some of them:
Excellent Companions
Horses are intelligent animals that form a strong bond with their owners. They are social creatures and love spending time with humans. A horse is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a loyal and trustworthy companion.
Enhances Your Quality of Life
Having horses around can do wonders for your physical and mental health. Horse riding is a great exercise that helps build core strength and improve your balance. Spending time with horses can also reduce stress levels and elevate your mood.
Aesthetically Pleasing
There’s no denying that horses add to the overall aesthetics of your country home. They add a touch of glamour, and their grace and beauty make for an excellent backdrop for family photographs.
Educational Experiences For Children
Horses are a great way to teach children about the importance of responsibility and dedication. They learn vital skills such as cleaning the stables and grooming the horse, instilling good habits from an early age.
Profitability
Horses can prove to be a profitable venture in the long run. With the right breeding, training, and investment, you can run a full-fledged equestrian business from your country home.
Home Renovations For Horses
You can renovate your country home to accommodate your horses in various ways. Here are five essential home renovations you need for your horses:
Horse Barn
You need a place to keep your horses safe from the elements. You need to invest in a sturdy horse barn with enough space for each horse to have its stall. Ensure the barn has adequate ventilation, lighting, and insulation to keep the horses comfortable all year round.
Fencing
Proper fencing is essential for keeping your horses safe and secure. You need a durable fence to withstand weather conditions and other animals entering the property. Additionally, you can install horse-proof gates to restrict access to certain areas of the property.
Feed And Water Areas
You need a designated area for feeding and watering your horses. The space should be big enough and sturdy enough to store supplies. It should also have adequate drainage systems in case of spills or rainwater.
Tack Room
Horses require equipment to ride and train, such as saddles, bridles, bits, and harnesses. You need a separate room to protect these items from the elements and pests.
Arena
You may want to build an arena to practice horse riding in your home. This area needs enough space for horses to gallop and turn comfortably. It should also have a surface that is easy on the horses’ legs and resistant to wear.
Owning horses is a considerable investment, both financially and in terms of time. However, their myriad benefits make it a decision worth contemplating. By offering companionship and potentially adding a profitable aspect to your lifestyle, horses can truly be a rewarding addition to your country home. Through mindful planning and the right home renovations, you can ensure that your home is a safe and enjoyable place for your equine friends. Horse ownership is an exciting journey that brings about countless joyful moments, and, indeed, there is no better place to embark on this journey than in the comfort of your country home.
