The Rising Cost of Keeping Horses – And What Owners Can Do About It

Keeping a horse has never been cheap, but over the last two years many owners have felt the cost pressures more than ever. Feed, bedding, fuel, farriery, livery, insurance—even routine vet care—have all seen significant price increases. For many riders and owners, the question isn’t whether costs are going up, but how to keep their horses without sacrificing welfare or financial stability.

At OLS Solicitors, we work with horse owners, yards, breeders, and equestrian businesses every day, and we understand how challenging these pressures can be—both practically and legally. Below is a clear breakdown of what’s driving costs, what support and options are available, and when legal advice can protect you, your horse, and your finances.

Why Are the Costs Increasing?

Several factors have combined to push equine-related costs up across the UK:

1. Rising Feed Prices

Global grain and hay shortages—combined with fuel inflation—mean most yards are paying significantly more for forage and hard feed.

2. Bedding Costs Have Surged

Shavings and straw have increased due to production and transport costs. Many yards have switched suppliers or limited usage as a result.

3. Farrier and Vet Fees Continue to Climb

These are highly skilled professions with rising overheads. Owners are reporting routine shoeing now costing 20–40% more than pre-2022.

4. Livery Yards Under Pressure

Yard owners face higher business rates, electricity bills, insurance premiums, and staffing costs. Inevitably, these increases filter down into livery fees.

5. Insurance Premiums Have Shot Up

With rising claims and increased veterinary bills, many insurers have raised premiums or altered the cover available.

Practical Avenues to Reduce Costs Without Compromising Welfare

Even with rising prices, owners do have options—many of which can make a real difference.

1. Consider Grass Livery or Part-Grass Livery

Grass livery is one of the most cost-effective options available. Horses live out full-time with access to grazing, and owners manage most care themselves. Benefits include:

• Lower overall monthly costs
• More natural lifestyle for many horses
• Reduced bedding and stabling expenses

However, it does mean more owner involvement, especially in winter.

2. Part-Livery or Assisted DIY

If full livery is stretching your budget, part-livery or assisted DIY can strike the right balance:

• Yard handles morning/evening care
• Owner does mucking out, exercising, or weekend duties
• Costs sit between DIY and full livery

Flexibility is the biggest advantage here—owners can choose a package that fits their time and budget.

3. Share or Loan Your Horse

One of the most effective ways to reduce costs:

• Full or part-loaning
• Finding a regular sharer who contributes financially
• Splitting shoeing, feed, and livery costs

Always have a written loan or sharing agreement to avoid disputes—this is one area where OLS Solicitors can help.

4. Review Feed and Supplement Use

Many horses thrive on a simpler diet:

• High-quality forage
• Fewer unnecessary supplements
• Balancers instead of multiple individual products

A nutrition review with your vet or an equine nutritionist can save surprising amounts.

5. Budget Vet and Farrier Care Carefully

• Book routine vaccinations and dental care at the same time as other liveries to share call-out fees
• Consider fixed-fee veterinary plans
• Review your insurance excess and coverage

6. Check Eligibility for Equestrian Hardship Funds

Several welfare charities may offer short-term financial help, including:

• The British Horse Society
• Redwings Horse Sanctuary
• World Horse Welfare

Their support is usually aimed at temporary crises to prevent neglect or forced sale.

Why Legal Advice Matters More Than Ever for Horse Owners

As financial pressures rise, disputes are becoming more common—with yards, sharers, loaners, buyers/sellers, and even between co-owners. The most frequent legal issues we see include:

1. Livery Agreements

Many owners still keep horses at yards without a formal, up-to-date contract. This can create major issues over:

• Payment terms
• Yard responsibilities
• Liability for injury or damage
• Termination and notice periods
• Turnout and grazing rights

OLS Solicitors can draft or review your livery agreement so everyone knows where they stand.

2. Loan, Share, or Lease Agreements

These are essential when sharing costs or care. We frequently assist with disputes involving:

• Who pays for vet bills
• Liability for injuries
• Return conditions
• Insurance responsibilities

Having a clear, professionally drafted agreement protects both parties—and the horse.

3. Buying and Selling Horses

Rising prices have increased:

• Misrepresentation claims
• Disputes over soundness
• Problems with trial periods and vetting

We regularly support clients with equine sale and purchase disputes, including claims under the Consumer Rights Act and Sale of Goods Act.

4. Yard Ownership & Equine Business Agreements

For yard owners, rising costs create commercial risks around:

• Staff contracts
• Grazing licences
• Business interruption
• Disputes with clients

We help equestrian businesses protect themselves with clear, enforceable contracts.

How OLS Solicitors Can Support Horse Owners and Equestrian Businesses

Our specialist Equine Law Team understands the unique challenges of horse ownership and the realities of today’s economic climate. Whether you’re a rider, owner, yard manager, breeder, or professional, we can help with:

• Livery agreements
• Loan/share contracts
• Horse sale and purchase disputes
• Breeding contracts
• Negligence and liability claims
• Equine business legal advice
• Contract drafting and dispute resolution

You can find out more at www.ols-solicitors.co.uk or by calling 01554 756952.

Final Thoughts from Lara

Horse ownership will always involve significant cost—but rising inflation, feed shortages and increased overheads have made it more challenging than ever. Exploring different livery options, reassessing your horse’s needs, and sharing care can make a big difference. And if you’re entering into any agreement, buying or selling a horse, or running an equine business, getting the right legal advice protects your financial position and your horse’s welfare.

If you need support with any equine-related legal issue, our team at OLS Solicitors is here to help