HORSES will always cost money, but smart management can make the difference between steady finances and spiralling bills. Here’s a Horse Sense A–Z of ways to save and spend wisely in the equestrian and thoroughbred industries.

A Advertising

Targeted, cost-effective marketing of horses or services (online, print, video) attracts the right buyers and clients without overspending.

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B Bales

Buying hay and straw in bulk contracts, and securing reliable storage, keeps feed costs predictable and quality consistent.

C Consignment

Using an experienced consignor at bloodstock sales can maximise returns - their market knowledge often outweighs their commission.

D DIY livery

For owners with time and ability, taking on more of the daily care reduces livery costs significantly.

E Energy efficiency

LED lighting, timers and well-insulated stables cut down on electricity and heating bills.

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F Farrier forward planning

Stick to regular shoeing and trimming schedules. Avoiding missed cycles prevents expensive remedial work later.

G Group buying

Joining forces with other owners or yards for bulk orders of feed, bedding or veterinary supplies reduces unit costs.

H Health checks

Routine dentistry, vaccinations and worm counts prevent expensive emergencies. Prevention is always cheaper than cure.

I Insurance insight

Review cover annually. Ensure the policy matches the horse’s value and purpose to avoid overpaying or being under-protected.

JJoint ownership

Racing syndicates and ownership partnerships spread training and competition costs while maintaining involvement.

K Knowledge is power

Stay informed on tax reliefs, grants and industry schemes. Missing out on available support is wasted money.

L Lessons learned

Avoid impulse purchases - whether horses, tack or equipment. Poor buying decisions are often the costliest.

M Manure management

Well-organised muck disposal or composting arrangements can avoid hefty removal fees and sometimes generate income.

N Negotiation

Don’t accept the first price. Negotiate with suppliers for loyalty discounts, bulk deals or early payment terms. Don’t be shy making deals!

O Outsourcing wisely

Weigh up labour costs against efficiency. Outsourcing specialist work can be more cost-effective than tackling it in-house.

P Pasture power

Invest in good grazing and rotation. Well-managed grassland reduces reliance on bought-in feed.

Q Quality over quantity

Durable, well-fitted equipment and rugs last longer. Buying cheaply often leads to repeat replacement costs.

R Routine pays

Consistent feeding, shoeing and veterinary care reduce the risk of injury and illness – stabilising expenses.

S Second-hand smart

Auctions, tack shops and online groups offer nearly-new equipment at a fraction of retail price.

T Transport tricks

Share lorries or trailers with neighbouring owners to cut transport and fuel costs.

U Upcycling

Repair and repurpose where possible - from rugs to stable tools - before buying new.

V Vet bills

Set aside a contingency fund. Horses are unpredictable, and having reserves avoids financial stress.

W Waste watch

Accurate feed measurement prevents waste and keeps horses healthy, saving money on both feed and veterinary bills.

X Experience matters

Seek advice from established trainers, breeders or riders. Their expertise can prevent expensive errors.

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Y Youngstock investment

Producing your own horses from foals or yearlings can be more cost-effective than buying trained animals - provided the time and infrastructure are in place.

Z Zero-based budgeting

Allocate every pound a purpose in advance.

Budget from the ground up, ensuring all of your hard-earned expenditure is justified.