The National Equine Welfare Council has recently released a handy list of tips, which will help make sure that both you and your horse survive the recession in good form. Equine charities are receiving a large number of calls every month from horse owners seeking alternative homes for their animals, however welfare organisations simply do not have the resources to take in all the horses whose owners can no longer afford to care for them.

This information sheet is aimed at helping owners in difficult circumstances and to help owners plan for the future and reduce costs without compromising their horse's welfare. The term horse is used to cover all domestic equine species, including horses, ponies, donkeys, hinnies and mules.

Cutting Cost without Compromising on Welfare
Caring for a horse properly is never going to be cheap, but there are areas where you can minimise costs.

1. Feeding
The majority of horses manage very well on a forage-based diet and if necessary one vitamin and mineral supplement. A veterinary surgeon or nutritionist can advise whether your horse really needs additional feed or supplements. Fortnightly weigh taping and body condition scoring will help you monitor your horse's health and could save you money. Horse weigh tapes do not work for donkeys; use a heart-girth measurement instead (please contact the Donkey Sanctuary for advice on taking these measurements).

2. Bedding
There are many bedding products on the market. Look into alternatives and decide what will work best for you and your horse. For example, although there is a high initial expense in fitting rubber matting, it can soon pay for itself in reduced bedding costs.

3. Livery / location
One of the biggest costs for many owners is a livery yard fee. Review the facilities you are paying for to check that you do need and use everything you are paying for. If you are paying for someone else to provide all or part of your horse's day-to-day care, it may reduce costs if you were able to do more yourself, even on a temporary basis. Many horses can do very well on permanent turnout. It could be worth looking around for a suitable grass livery or renting a field, which can be even cheaper if it is shared with friends.

4. Horse share
To reduce costs in all areas, look into sharing your horse with someone else or keeping the horse on working livery. This will also reduce your workload.

5. Working together
If you share a yard with other people, why not club together to save money and time:
• Many feed, forage and bedding suppliers may offer reduced rates if they
deliver in bulk.
• Ask veterinary surgeons, farriers and other professionals if they can reduce rates
for group bookings.
• Save fuel by sharing transport whenever you can
• Work as a team with other owners to share daily duties, this will save time and
fuel.

6. Routine veterinary care
Discuss worming and feeding routines with your veterinary surgeon to make sure you are using the most effective and economical regimes.

7. Farriery
Discuss the shoeing options for your horse with your farrier; you may find your horse doesn't need to have a full set of shoes. If there is not much wear on the horse's shoes your farrier may be able to refit them.

8. Resist marketing
Horses have simple needs. When money is in short supply think very carefully about what is REALLY needed for your horse's welfare. Make sure you are not buying unnecessary supplements, rugs or equipment, looking after existing equipment helps it last longer, even if it starts to show its age.

False Economies
There are some essential areas of horse care where corners should never be cut. These are the fundamentals of responsible horse ownership; short-term savings can put the horse's welfare at risk and can cost the owner a lot more in the long run.

The essentials include:
• Proper veterinary care. Do not be tempted to diagnose and treat a condition yourself.
• Vaccinations. Lapsed vaccinations leave your horse vulnerable to disease.
• Regular hoof care. Taking shoes off to save money without consulting your veterinary surgeon or farrier could lead to lameness and expense as some horses are not able to go barefoot.
• Professional services. Do not employ a cheaper, unqualified person to do a professional's job.
• Repairs to damaged property and equipment are vital to safeguard your horse's safety and security.
• Insurance. If you are not insured against veterinary fees you must be confident that you could pay an unexpected veterinary bill. Third party liability cover is highly advisable for all horse owners.

Be Realistic
It is vital to look ahead and budget effectively to meet the needs of your horse. Ideally, put a little away every month or when you can, to help you manage if and when unforeseen problems arise. Be realistic about the effect on your horse, both short and long term, should your financial circumstances change. Not facing up to looming difficulties can greatly reduce the options available to you once the problem has become too overwhelming to ignore. Taking advice on personal budget management before your finances get out of hand may also help you make the savings necessary to keep your horse.

Information in this article has been obtained from the National Equine Welfare Council.