it kinda depends on what breed of horse youget. but all of them are pretty pricey. American curlies don't need shoes and they live off just grass and hay. and arabs don't usually need shod either, but if you're rescuing i don't know how much choice you'll have in breed. but all horses are cool most people just think sbout big things that they'll need when they have a horse, but you have to think about all the little things too. (ie,grooming supplies treats,toys, sprays, shampoos, combs, halters, lead ropes, etc) and even though that stuff isn't very expensive, things get lost (or eaten) and you endup buying new ones, and the cost will add up after awhile. But i think it'sdefinatly worth the cost i wish i had a horse! of course i wouldn't be the one paying for it anyway...