By now we all know the hurting economy is also hurting the horse industry. Even the highest echelons of horse ownership are being affected, so there’s no question that us average equestrians are struggling. Nearly all horse owners are having to make sacrifices Ð I know I’ve had to make some of my own, from not breeding my mare to bartering for reduced board to not dining out as often with friends.

This blog will take a look each month at a different component of owning a horse Ð be it horse health, feeding, horse showing, equipment, etc. Ð and suggest ways you can cut costs and save money. New information will be available for download with each weekly blog post. I’ve gathered a slew of “experts” from different fields to offer their best advice, and hopefully inspire similar advice and suggestions from you via the comment section.

As an introductory “chapter,” this week’s download addresses smart equine expense management and how to stay within your budget. After all, knowing (and controlling) where all your money is going is the first step toward saving some. The following weeks will focus on the ever-present financial burden of caring for your horse’s health. We’ll begin by tackling the subjects of veterinary visits, vaccinations, and deworming, followed by hoof and dental care, preventative care, and do-it-yourself tips. By June we’ll switch over to saving money at horse shows, as the summer show season will be in full swing.

I’ve heard from veterinarians, farriers, breeders, and barn managers but now I want to hear from you. Where have you cut costs? How creative have you gotten? Share some of your tips and tricks by commenting on this blog. To comment, become a registered user (if you’re not already) for free via the “create a login” link at the top right-hand corner of the Web page. If we like your cost-saving suggestions, they may be incorporated into a future Ebook version of Thrifty Horsekeeping