Horses are a large commitment when choosing them as pets. They are large animals and need resources that are very different than small animals. Even routine horse care is a significant expense. The purchase of your pet horse is the least of the expenses that you will be incurring as a owner. The upkeep is labor and financially intensive.

Horses need a regular supply of food. In most cases, they need to have hay or pasture throughout the day, with additional grain feedings twice a day. An average-size horse will eat about 20 lbs. of food a day and drink at least eight gallons of water. Because their stomachs are relatively small and their digestive systems surprisingly delicate, horses need to nibble or graze throughout the day, rather than have one or two meals a day.

Horses have very sensitive hoofs and need to be taken care of on a regular basis. This can depend on their living conditions. It is important to get a farrier in order to keep up with hoof care. Neglecting the hoof can lead to severe disease and possible death.

Horses need regular veterinary care. At least once a year, your horse will need to be vaccinated for various diseases. Your veterinarian can guide you through the proper vaccination schedule and proper vaccines. The veterinarian will also provide routine dental care. Keep in mind that medical emergencies, which are always an unfortunate possibility, can be very costly.

Since horses are constantly exposed to intestinal worms from the ground they graze on, they must be dewormed every six to eight weeks. Carrying a heavy burden of worms can cause serious illness or death in equines, so regular and timely treatment is crucial to your horse's health.

Horses need constant access to a dry, safe, comfortable shelter to protect them from the elements. At a minimum, you should have a well-constructed, three-sided shed into which your horse can retreat at all times. You will need to remove manure from the stall or shelter every day.

Horses need exercise. To supplement the exercise your horse will get when you ride him, he should have a paddock or pasture in which to relax and stroll. No horse should spend all day confined in a stall, except in certain instances. The pasture and paddock should be built with appropriate materials that are safe for the horse.

Your horse depends on your love, care, and commitment. You'll show your love through grooming, petting, riding, and the occasional treat. You must also show your commitment by providing for her needs 365 days a year, in good weather and bad. With good care, your horse can live 35 years or more, so plan to enjoy a long and mutually rewarding relationship with your horse.