Horse World

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There are many things to take into consideration when buying a horse.

It is more than the physical aspects of the horse, age or looks of the horse that potential horse owners should take into consideration when looking to buy a horse.

You should also think about the main rider’s experience, knowledge of horse care, environment, and size of the stable and pasture.

There are some very important questions you should answer before you head out to buy that horse.

 The first question you should answer is what is the purpose for buying the horse? Is the horse you are considering buying going to fit that purpose?

 What will you be doing with this horse now and in a few years time?

Will you be hacking, dressage, showing, jumping, eventing, polo, or riding or driving the horse and is the horse a match for these activities?

 Is there a particular temperament that you are looking for in the horse, especially one that will fit with the rest of your horses?

 Where to look for a horse:

 There are many places to search when looking for a horse.

You can look in magazines, newspapers, online, and asking around the community. Neighbors and friends often know of horses for sale and can even give you information about the horse that is for sale.

 Once you have located a horse, you need to arrange for a viewing. Take a more experienced or confident rider or even your instructor along with you to look at the horse.

Watch the horse being ridden by the current owner if possible before you attempt to ride it especially if you are a novice rider, or are nervous.

 Other places to investigate when buying a horse are auctions, horse farms, local veterinarians and also your local humane officer, who may know of any unwanted or previously abused horses who are in need of good homes.

 If this is your first horse, make sure you become familiar with the physical, mental and emotional needs of a horse.

Visit horse farms, read books, go to horse auctions, and explore horse websites. Ask for some advice from someone you know who has experience with horses.

 Make sure you physically check over the horse you are considering.

Check the hooves to be sure that they are not badly cracked or deformed. Check to see  the nose or eyes are not runny. Make sure the horse does not appear to be lethargic.

 Make sure you have a horse veterinarian examine the horse prior to finalizing the sale. It can be a costly mistake if you don’t.

 Make sure you take into account the rider’s size and skill level when inventorying horses for sale.

Do not buy a thoroughbred or a skitterish stallion or even an untrained horse if you are a novice around horses.

 Neutered males (geldings) are usually easier to train then mares (female horses).

 Know your budget for purchasing, housing and maintaining a horse including vet costs so that you will be buying within your means.

You do not want to buy a horse and then have to give the horse up if you run out of money to care for or shelter your horse.

Previous Articles By This Author

• Buying Your First Horse
• Equipment for Horses
• Basics of Horse Care
• Grooming your Horse
• The History of Horses