Thinking about getting a horse in Ireland? There are rules and requirements you need to know about before you take ownership. Here is a plain-English guide to help you get started.
Horses.ie is a marketplace for second-hand horse tack and equipment only. We do not currently list horses for sale or rehoming. If you are looking to buy or rehome a horse, we recommend contacting a rescue charity like My Lovely Horse Rescue, checking auction houses like ITM (Irish Thoroughbred Marketing) or Tattersalls Ireland, or speaking to local equestrian contacts.
In Ireland, all horses, ponies, and donkeys must be microchipped. This has been a legal requirement since 2012. The microchip is a small electronic device, about the size of a grain of rice, implanted in the horse's neck by a vet.
Every horse, pony, and donkey in Ireland must have a valid passport. The passport is a legal document that records the animal's identity, ownership history, and any veterinary treatments that affect the food chain.
If you keep a horse on your land in Ireland, you are required to register the premises with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. This is known as the Equine Premises Register, and your unique identifier is called an Equine Premises Number (EPN).
Horses are a long-term commitment. The average horse lives to around 25 to 30 years, though many live well into their 30s with good care. Ponies tend to live slightly longer than larger breeds.
This means owning a horse is not a short-term decision. A horse bought as a 5-year-old could be with you for 20 years or more. It is worth thinking carefully about whether you can commit to that level of time, care, and cost before taking one on.
Under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, horse owners in Ireland have a legal duty of care to their animals. This means providing the basics every horse needs to stay healthy and happy.
Owning a horse is a significant financial commitment. Costs vary depending on whether your horse lives at grass or in a livery yard, but here is a rough guide to what you can expect to spend each year in Ireland:
€2,400 - €7,200
Full livery ranges from around €200 to €600 per month depending on location and facilities. DIY livery or keeping a horse on your own land is cheaper, but you take on all the daily work yourself.
€1,200 - €2,500
Hay, hard feed, and supplements add up quickly, especially over winter when grass is limited. A horse at grass in summer will cost less, but you should still budget for year-round feeding.
€500 - €1,200
A shod horse needs the farrier every 6 to 8 weeks at around €80 to €130 per visit. Barefoot trims are less expensive, typically €40 to €60 per visit.
€300 - €800
Annual vaccinations, worming, and a dental check are the basics. Emergency vet calls or injuries can cost significantly more, so it is wise to keep a contingency fund.
€300 - €1,000
Rugs, saddle pads, boots, grooming kits, and replacements for worn items. Buying second-hand tack can reduce this cost considerably.
€300 - €1,000
Equine insurance covers vet fees, public liability, and loss of the horse. Premiums depend on the horse's value, age, and what level of cover you choose. Read our insurance guide for more detail.
Estimated total: €5,000 - €13,700 per year. These are rough figures and will vary depending on your setup. Unexpected costs like vet emergencies or replacing a damaged rug can push the total higher. It is always best to budget for more than you think you will need.
While not legally required, horse insurance is an important part of responsible ownership. A single colic surgery can cost €5,000 or more, and if your horse escapes and causes a road accident, you could face a significant public liability claim.
Most equine policies in Ireland cover mortality, vet fees, public liability, and theft. Some also cover tack and equipment, loss of use, and personal accident for the rider. Premiums typically range from €200 to €1,500 per year depending on the horse's value and the level of cover.
If you are looking to buy or adopt a horse, here are some reputable places to start:
Charities like My Lovely Horse Rescue take in abandoned and neglected horses and rehome them to caring owners. Adopting is a wonderful way to give a horse a second chance.
Visit My Lovely Horse RescueHorse auctions are a traditional way to buy in Ireland. ITM and Tattersalls hold regular sales for thoroughbreds, sport horses, and more.
Many horses in Ireland are sold privately through riding clubs, local contacts, and equestrian communities. Ask at your local yard or riding school - word of mouth is still one of the best ways to find a good horse.
For the latest rules and regulations around horse ownership in Ireland, these official sources are the best place to look:
If you are looking for second-hand tack and equipment, Horses.ie is building the easiest way to buy and sell in Ireland.
