7 Reasons Why You Should Lease a Horse

Leasing a horse can indeed be more affordable than purchasing one! And there are other fabulous reasons to explore leasing, too.  

Leasing a horse is a stepping stone to horse ownership.  

Buying a horse can be emotional, expensive, and overwhelming at times. It’s the equestrian equivalent of jumping into the deep end! Leasing a horse is an excellent way to wade into the water, taking your time. You will have all of the experiences of horse ownership while sharing responsibility.  

It’s a valuable way to gain experience with horse management. 

Horsemanship is more than riding and grooming! It’s scheduling, making long-term goals, providing supportive care, herding cats, researching, and making health care decisions for your horse. 

With leasing, you will have experienced people on your team. The horse owner and trainer will be able to share the intricacies of keeping your horse in top form! Leasing is a fantastic learning opportunity from people who know your horse. With sales horses, you are often starting from scratch and figuring many things out. 

Leasing from a reputable trainer enhances what you will learn.  

When your trainer knows the horse, your trainer can best teach you on that horse. It’s right down to business! There’s no working through quirks or getting to know one another!

A lease horse matches your needs right now.  

With horse ownership comes, there are many unknowns. Does a purchased horse meet your needs now and five years from now? Or even further into the future?

A leased horse can meet your needs now. For competitive riders, you can move up your discipline’s levels on your schedule, not your horse’s. 

Leasing a horse fits into busy short-term and long-term schedules. 

Half-leasing agreements are convenient for the busy equestrian. You get to own a horse around your work, school, or family schedule without committing to the barn every day. The half-lease fits the busy lifestyle!

For equestrians with a few years to devote to horses but then may face busier times, leasing is a great way to enjoy a horse without the lifetime commitment or selling process. Leasing works well for students or equestrians that may have significant changes in the near future. 

Are lease horses unicorns? 

Many lease horses are so near and dear to their owners that selling is not an option. By offering a lease, those special unicorns can teach future generations of riders while staying in the family. 

Many schoolmasters become top-quality lease horses, too! The opportunity to lease and learn from a schoolmaster is often a dream come true.  

Sign on the dotted line

Do spend the time to agree upon a comprehensive lease agreement. By planning all outcomes in writing, your responsibilities and privileges will be clear. 

Include details about making medical and farrier decisions and who is responsible for paying those bills. Outline details about training requirements, horse show options, trailering, tack and grooming supplies purchased, and even contingency plans if the lease needs to end. It may seem overwhelming, but a solid agreement keeps you and your new horse happy and safe.   

Your trainer can help you navigate finding the best match for you!