Basic Horse Ownership

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Updated: May 23, 2024

University of Maryland Extension Resources for Horse Owners (EBR-51)

Maryland’s horse industry adds $2.9 billion to the state’s economy, according to the American Horse Council 2024 economic impact study. Maryland is home to over 94,000 horses and ranks number one in the United States in terms of horses per square mile. University of Maryland Extension (UME) is a non-formal education system within the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR) that has educators who can help guide and provide resources for Maryland’s horse enthusiasts. There are a variety of equine-related programs, online recordings, webinars, and publications that are offered through UME either for free or for a small fee to the public. Authors: Erica Crowl and Jennifer Reynolds; Title: University of Maryland Extension Resources for Horse Owners (EBR-51).
Updated: February 23, 2022

Horse Shopping? Better Ask Some Questions!

If you are in the market for a horse, take your time and do your homework. Determine your goals for both you and your horse and develop a prioritized list of requirements for your horse.  The list may include breed, gender, height, disposition, conformation, movement, previous use, or breeding potential.  This publication provides a helpful list of goals and priorities to fill in before you begin shopping for your new horse. 
Updated: February 23, 2022

Keeping Horses on a Budget

Horses are expensive to care for, and the costs can quickly become burdensome unless they are managed carefully. It is possible, however, to reduce horse care costs while providing a high standard of care. Before you can cut expenses, you must have a good understanding of your horse-related expenses. Once you have a thorough understanding of your expenses, you can begin to consider ideas for reducing them using the tips on feeding, boarding, farrier and veterinary care and supplies detailed in this publication.
Updated: April 7, 2021

Equine Disposal Guide for Maryland Horse Owners (EB-421)

Have you ever lost a horse or made the difficult decision to euthanize a horse? Then what do you do? Properly handling a large animal after it has passed away can be difficult. Publication EB-421 from the University of MD Extension helps guide horse owners in each MD county in the disposal options available.