Are you thinking of buying a horse for your horse-crazed child? Looking into the pros and cons of buying a horse is the first step in educating yourself to see if this is the right decision for you and your family.
When you have a child that can think of nothing but having a horse it is hard to escape the constant pleas and now you might be thinking of giving in.
Let's look at some of those pros and cons to see if we can alleviate some of your misgivings and help you make the right choice.
What will my Child gain from Owning a Horse? There are many benefits to horse ownership.
Caring for an animal teaches a child to be responsible.
The routine and regiment of caring for a horse teaches children discipline.
As with many interests, the rewards are the direct result of their hard work.
Children will learn that this work pays off and they will develop a good work ethic.
When children contribute towards the cost of keeping a horse they develop an appreciation for money and finances.
A shy or nervous child will gain self-confidence from being able to handle an animal as large as a horse.
All these qualities will carry over into the child's life.
Riding and stable chores develop strength, balance, agility and coordination.
When buying a horse it becomes a "family affair" which encourages teamwork and sharing.
A competitive child will gain a healthy sense of sportsmanship and a good competitive attitude.
What are the Benefits for Parents? Buying a horse can bring the family together when everyone takes a part in the day-to-day care and riding activities.
Parents can be involved, and experience the joy of watching their children developing new skills.
These skills will provide pleasure throughout the child's life.
Watching children enjoying their horse may encourage moms and dads to join in the fun and learn a new skill.
What are the Disadvantages? Keeping a horse can be expensive.
The initial cost is just one factor when you consider buying a horse.
The monthly cost in caring for a horse will far exceed the purchase price.
He must be cared for every day, twice a day, 365 days a year.
If you board your horse, this will not be much of a problem.
A horse that is cared for by the family must be provided for during holidays, vacations, and family crisis.
Your child may lose interest or find another pastime.
Horses are time consuming.
Make sure that your child's other activities will fit in with a horse.
Do you or someone in your family have the experience to care for a horse? If not, are you willing to learn?
When you have a child that can think of nothing but having a horse it is hard to escape the constant pleas and now you might be thinking of giving in.
Let's look at some of those pros and cons to see if we can alleviate some of your misgivings and help you make the right choice.
What will my Child gain from Owning a Horse? There are many benefits to horse ownership.
Caring for an animal teaches a child to be responsible.
The routine and regiment of caring for a horse teaches children discipline.
As with many interests, the rewards are the direct result of their hard work.
Children will learn that this work pays off and they will develop a good work ethic.
When children contribute towards the cost of keeping a horse they develop an appreciation for money and finances.
A shy or nervous child will gain self-confidence from being able to handle an animal as large as a horse.
All these qualities will carry over into the child's life.
Riding and stable chores develop strength, balance, agility and coordination.
When buying a horse it becomes a "family affair" which encourages teamwork and sharing.
A competitive child will gain a healthy sense of sportsmanship and a good competitive attitude.
What are the Benefits for Parents? Buying a horse can bring the family together when everyone takes a part in the day-to-day care and riding activities.
Parents can be involved, and experience the joy of watching their children developing new skills.
These skills will provide pleasure throughout the child's life.
Watching children enjoying their horse may encourage moms and dads to join in the fun and learn a new skill.
What are the Disadvantages? Keeping a horse can be expensive.
The initial cost is just one factor when you consider buying a horse.
The monthly cost in caring for a horse will far exceed the purchase price.
He must be cared for every day, twice a day, 365 days a year.
If you board your horse, this will not be much of a problem.
A horse that is cared for by the family must be provided for during holidays, vacations, and family crisis.
Your child may lose interest or find another pastime.
Horses are time consuming.
Make sure that your child's other activities will fit in with a horse.
Do you or someone in your family have the experience to care for a horse? If not, are you willing to learn?
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