Livery bookings rise as horse owners struggle with costs

Demand for affordable retirement livery has risen "exponentially" as people were "massively worried" about the rising cost of living, owners of a farm have said.

Fiona and Ian Long, who look after more than 70 horses at Padwick Farm in Leek, Staffordshire, said they had seen a 60% growth in livery bookings in the last five years as prices rise.

Typical livery costs, which are fees for the boarding and care of horses in stables, can be about £800 a month, according to the charity Horse Trust.

Padwick Farm said it charged less than half the price to prevent owners from euthanising their horses.

"We've experienced someone struggling to put food on the table for their children and they decided to put their horse to sleep," Fiona Long said.

The National Equine Welfare Council (NEWC) found that more than 80% of equine owners across the UK were concerned about the continued pressure of increased costs of equine-keeping.

Five percent were considering euthanising their horse due to rising costs, with owners unable to afford the farrier and regular vet call-outs.

It was more common and affordable to have horses in the past but these days it was a "luxury" as the cost of grass seed, bales of hay and vet prices rise, Long said.

"A big bale of hay was £10 around 30 years ago, now it's £90. Livery costs were static for around 20 years before owners started putting up prices two years ago," she added.

The farm co-owner said that offering lower prices was a way to "give back" to horses and allow them to continue living for years after they stop being ridden.

"Horses aren't a hobby, they are a lifestyle and they offer us so much fulfilment, so for them to be horses themselves, that's giving back to them," staff member Jo Woods said.

The livery, which aims to provide a sense of freedom and relaxation for a range of horses, allowed them to "be a horse without any expectations".

"Seeing a horse come and not really know their place in the herd to then being a fundamental part of the herd and relaxed, happy, having friends, is so rewarding," Long said.

Owners spend approximately £5,350 per year on direct costs to care for one horse, according to the British Horse Society.

It recommended these tips while making sure any money saving changes still supported your horse's health and welfare.

• Healthcare plans can help spread the cost of routine treatment while making sure your horse gets everything they need without surprise bills

• Discuss shoeing and hoof care options with a farrier. If suggested by a professional, a horse may be able to go barefoot or wear shoes only on their front feet

• Consider using small-holed haynets or slow feeders to reduce waste and help forage last longer. Don't forget to compare prices, with local suppliers potentially able to match online deals

• Switch to grass livery, DIY packages or moving to a yard with fewer facilities for reduced costs

• Look after your equipment to help it last longer and save money. Store tools in a dry place out of direct sunlight and clean tack regularly to prevent cracking and mould

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