Why I Didn’t Want to Buy a Horse
- Johanne Guérin
- Feb 11
- 3 min read
By Johanne Guérin
Why I Didn’t Want to Buy a Horse (and Why I Did Anyway)
Buying a horse—Is it a good idea? Discover the real costs of owning a horse, the benefits of a half-lease, and how Silver stole my heart.
Is it a good idea to buy a horse when you love riding but have a limited budget?
That’s the question I asked myself… for years.
And my answer was clear: absolutely not! Buying a horse is like opening a bottomless money pit, filling your calendar to the brim, and taking on a whole new load of responsibilities. So no—definitely not for me!
Well… that’s what I thought, before I met Silver.
The purchase price of a horse: the classic trap
When you browse horse-for-sale listings, it can seem like buying a horse is within reach. Some horses look affordable—$2,500, $3,000, often much more. But the purchase price is far from the most important expense. In fact, it’s often the smallest amount you’ll need to plan for!
What we often forget is that buying the horse is only the beginning of a long story— and a long string of bills.
The real day-to-day costs of owning a horse
Here are a few concrete examples of the recurring expenses you need to consider when you become a horse owner:
Monthly board (stable, stall, pasture, services, etc.)
Farrier (on average every 6 to 8 weeks)
Veterinary care: vaccines, emergency care, dental work, etc.
Supplements, vitamins, natural care products
Riding lessons or training
Transportation for horse shows, clinics or moving barns
Equipment (saddle, bridles, pads, blankets… and the backup versions!)
Insurances and association fees
In short, we’re not talking about a simple Sunday hobby. Becoming a horse owner is a commitment of body, heart… and wallet.
Why I Chose a Half-Lease (and Why It Was Perfect)
In my case, I was happy with a half-lease. I rode 2 to 3 times a week, paid part of the board and the farrier costs, but I wasn’t solely responsible for unexpected expenses. I had found the perfect balance.
I was lucky enough to have a beautiful relationship with Yankee, a big-hearted senior horse I considered a little bit like my own. His owner gave me plenty of space, and our bond was strong.
When his health declined, he went to join horses’ paradise.
After him, I took on another half-lease, convinced I wasn’t meant to be an owner. Too much stress, too much commitment, too many expenses.
But I had a stubborn habit…
Looking at horses for sale “just for fun” (the slippery slope)
I was still looking at horses for sale listings. Just to see. Just to dream. Just to… fall in love?
One day, I told myself, “This is the last time I look.” And bam!
There he was. Silver.
Deep eyes, silvery mane, a magnetic presence… but above all, he checked every box that mattered to me: a calm, steady temperament, a big build to be able to carry me (very important!), well-trained, and people-loving.
Love at first sight.
And against all logic—against every carefully built argument… I bought him.
What Silver taught me (so much more than riding)
Three years later, I don’t regret a thing. Silver changed my life.
He taught me:
to push myself, even when I’m afraid,
to trust myself,
to find my courage again,
to fully live in the present moment,
to forgive myself… and to forgive us.
And yes, sometimes I count my pennies… and my dollars!
But I don’t count the happy moments anymore.
Buy a horse or choose a half-lease?
If you’re hesitating, know that there’s no right or wrong decision. A half-lease is an excellent way to live your passion without breaking the bank.
But if, one day, a horse chooses you… you’ll know. And you’ll find a way.
Key Takeaways
The real cost of owning a horse goes far beyond the purchase price. Ask yourself: would I be able to care for this horse and invest the money needed for their well-being? If you’re unsure, it may be better to postpone the purchase until you’ve built a solid financial cushion for unexpected expenses—and start with a half-lease.
A half-lease is an excellent, realistic alternative.
Buying a horse should be a well-thought-out decision… but sometimes, the heart wins.
Want to learn more?
Stay tuned! La Bouée Digitale will soon be offering tools for overwhelmed riders (care tracking, boarding sheets, equine budget management, and more).
Would you like us to keep you posted? Email us!
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