Things I wish I knew

How expensive is it to ride a horse?

Horseback riding can be as extensive or minimal as you’d like. If you have been bitten by the horse bug and this sport has sparked some passion then you are hooked not only financially but also time. However, like the old saying goes, if you enjoy what you do then you will never work a day in you life. Rodeoing, which is an emphasis at our stable can have weekly costs and/or monthly costs. Events in the wide open world that riders participate in with their horse can be from $10.00 to $125.00 per run. I would not recommend paying the high dollar amount if you and your horse are not running consistant times. Here in North Dallas and with recent price increases boarding facilities can cost from $450-750 per month. The more amenities offered the more you can be expected to pay. Location also plays a factor. Facilities that are closer to the metroplex tend to be more expensive. If you don’t mind commuting 45 minutes to an hour to see your horse then you may find boarding available for $350.00 per month. Many barns have trainers that provide private/ group lessons that can very in price depending on the horseback riding disiplne. Prices that I have seen in the North Dallas locations are anywhere from $45.00 to $125.00 for a 1 hour lesson. If you are ready to go to the next step and have offically become hooked, than you may need to consider your price range for a horse. If you are looking for a solid broke horse that will take care of you than be prepared to spend a little more money. In this current market these horses cost around $8,000 minimum. Rodeo horses that have been hauled and proven will start closer to $10,000. Overall this is just the tip of the iceberg, discussing with a professional can help you gage your needs. Some needs are immedate while others can be spread over a time period! God Bless horses!

Things I wish I knew

How much do you have to weigh to horseback ride?

Throughout my years as a riding instructor this is a question I have been asked frequently and the simple answer is, no more than 210 lbs. According to the National Stable Riders Organization, horses should not carry more than 20% of their ideal body weight and the horses used at our ranch are mainly quarter horses weighing around 1100 lbs.