Essential Gear for New Horse Owners

Your Guide to Getting Started with Horse Ownership in Australia

Bringing a horse home for the first time is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a fair bit of preparation. Ensuring you have the right equipment—both for your horse and yourself as a rider—makes a world of difference for safety, comfort, and enjoyment. Whether you’re setting up a paddock on your property or boarding at an agistment centre, this guide covers the must-have basics for new horse owners, plus a handy checklist to help you get organised before your horse’s arrival.

Basic Equipment for Your Horse

• Halter and Lead Rope: A well-fitting halter and sturdy lead rope are essential for handling and moving your horse safely.

• Water Trough or Automatic Drinker: Clean, fresh water should always be available. Choose a trough that’s easy to clean and can’t be tipped over by a curious horse.

• Feed Bucket & Feed + Hay: Use a durable bucket for grain or supplements. For hay, a hay net or rack helps minimise waste. Ensure you have their feed and hay already at home and understand quantities to give the horse.

• Grooming Kit: Include a body brush, dandy brush, hoof pick, mane comb, and sponge. Regular grooming keeps your horse comfortable and healthy.

• Rug/Blanket: Depending on your region and your horse’s needs, a rug can protect against cold, rain, or flies. Make sure it fits properly to avoid chafing.

  • Guide on rug types

  • Guide on seasonsal rugging

• First Aid Kit: Stock with basic supplies like wound ointment, bandages, antiseptic, and a digital thermometer.

  • Detailed equine first aid kit

• Fly Spray/Mask: In Australian summers, flies and insects can be a real hassle. A fly mask and spray help keep your horse comfortable.

• Safe Fencing: Make sure your paddock fencing is horse-safe—no barbed wire, and gates that latch securely.

• Tack (Saddle, Bridle, Saddle Pad): If you’ll be riding, you’ll need a properly fitted saddle, stirrups and bridle, plus a saddle pad to protect your horse’s back.

Recommended products and equipment to help you choose can be found here.

Essential Equipment for the Rider

• Helmet: A certified equestrian helmet is non-negotiable for safety—never ride without one.

• Riding Boots: Choose boots with a heel to prevent your foot slipping through the stirrup. Jodhpur or paddock boots are popular for beginners. Don't forget riding socks to help make it more comfortable.

• Riding Pants (Jodhpurs or Breeches or Riding Tights): These are comfortable and prevent chafing, offering grip and flexibility in the saddle.

• Gloves: Riding gloves protect your hands from reins and weather, and help with grip.

• Body Protector (Optional): For extra safety, especially when learning or jumping, consider a body protector vest.

• Hi-vis Clothing: If you’ll be riding out on roads or trails, high-visibility gear is important for safety.

Recommended products and equipment to help you choose can be found here.

Checklist: Preparing to Bring Your Horse Home

1. Secure fencing and gates in the paddock or stable area.

2. Set up a shelter or stable for weather protection.

3. Arrange reliable water supply (troughs, drinkers).

4. Purchase sufficient feed and storage containers (for hay, grain, supplements).

5. Prepare a clean grooming kit.

6. Stock a basic equine first aid kit.

7. Organise tack and ensure it’s correctly fitted.

8. Set up a safe storage area for equipment and feed (away from horses).

9. Have contact details for your local vet, farrier, and equine dentist on hand.

   1. Here's a detailed list for people in the Canberra region.

10. Arrange transport for your horse and confirm arrival time and date.

    1. Here's a detailed list for people in the Canberra region.

11. Double-check insurance and registration requirements in your state or territory.

12. Enlist a mentor, coach or experienced horse person for support, especially in the early days.

    1. Here's a detailed list for people in the Canberra region.

Conclusion

Starting your journey as a new horse owner is both rewarding and a big responsibility. With the right equipment and preparation, you’ll set yourself and your horse up for a safe and enjoyable partnership. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice at your local produce store, riding club, or from seasoned horse owners—everyone was new once, and the Aussie horse community is full of helpful tips. Happy riding!