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Adapted from an article written by: Cheryl Sutor [August 6, 2000]
Found on:http://www.equusite.com/articles/basics/basicsLeasing.shtml
This article has been modified from its original to correctly explain what leasing is like at Ladybug Stables.
There are many advantages and disadvantages of leasing a horse. Depending on your particular situation, you can decide whether leasing is a suitable option for you.
The most common reason a person would lease a horse, instead of buy one:
1) Allows you to experience the joys and responsibilities of horse ownership without actually having to buy a horse
2) No hidden/emergency expenses liabilities
3) As a test to see if horse ownership is right for the individual leasing.
4) To be able to show and ride a horse that would otherwise be unaffordable.
5) To experience a version of horse ownership for people who can’t commit of long term horse ownership due to future moves, college/university, busy lifestyle and/or other commitments.
This article should demonstrate what is involved in leasing a horse, and help you make the decision on whether or not it is right for you.
Finding a horse to lease
A common place to look for lease prospects is in classified ads in your local paper, on the internet, and at your local tack shops. You may even want to make your own wanted ad in your local paper or on internet sites. If you are currently riding at a stable, ask the other horse owners at the farm if they know of any horses available for lease. Also, talk to your trainer about a lease situation, and ask if he/she knows of any horses available for your situation. If you are particularly interested in a horse at the stable where you ride, mention it to the horse's owner. Many owners are willing to accept a share-lease situation, since it will cut down on their boarding expenses, and will allow their horse to get more exercise.
The full lease
In a full lease situation, the lessee usually pays for all of the horse's boarding costs ($200/month at Ladybug Stables) in addition to routine farrier and veterinary care in return for being able to use the horse whenever you'd like. The restrictions on the full lease are much less than on a share-lease, where the owner and lessee must communicate frequently about the shared details. The full lease usually does not restrict riding times and days, and also does not usually restrict access to the horse for special events such as horse shows. Horse show horse rentals ($20/show) are covered in your lease.
The share-lease
The share-lease situation is less expensive than leasing a horse completely by yourself ($125/month), but still allows you 3 days per week to work with the horse. If you'd like to get involved in a share-lease you would have to agree upon which days of the week you would like to ride and which shows you would like attend.
Looking at lease prospects
When you are looking at a horse to lease, use the same precautions you would if you were going to buy him. Test the horse in the discipline you wish to use. If you are planning on riding the horse, ride him several times before making a decision, if you are planning on jumping, be sure to jump the horse on several occasions. It is also good to bring along a trainer or educated friend to assess the horse and help you with your decision.
Leasing fees at Ladybug Stables:
Fees for Full lease
1) The cost of the horses’ board ($200/month)
2) Possibily the cost of the farrier and deworming if you are leasing a horse that does not belong to Ladybug Stables.
Benefits of a Full lease
1) You can ride anytime.
2) Free horse show rentals
3) Don’t need to share your horse with anyone else so it is most like owning a horse.
4) If you are unable to ride, your horse will be used in lessons so he will remain fit even if you can’t come out.
Fees for Part-lease
1) Just over half the cost of the horses’ board ($125/month)
Benefits of a Part-Lease
1) Can have the horse to yourself, 3 days a week
2) Free Horse show rentals
3) No added financial responsibilities.
4) Your horse will be used on the days that you cannot make it out, so he will remain fit and you will not have to invest so much time.
Wrapping it up
Seeing all of the advantages and disadvantages of leasing a horse should help you in your decision to lease or not to lease. Depending on your particular situation, leasing may or may not be suitable for you. Take all aspects of leasing into account before making any decisions, and either way you choose to pursue your horse activities, just be sure that your decision is right for your situation, and...always have fun!
