Advice On Buying Your First Horse

Monday, March 8th, 2010 at 11:36 pm

When searching for horses for sale, there are a few factors which are worth considering to make the buying process run smoothly, and to make sure you end up with your dream horse.

All horses have faults – just make sure that the one you buy has faults that you can put up with and that won’t lessen your enjoyment.
Bring an experienced rider with you, someone who is knowledgable of your capabilities and strengths. Ideally take someone who is capable of spotting whether the horse is lame or any illnesses. Or perhaps your trainer who can tell if the selected horse is suitable for your style of riding – your aptitude and confidence.
Check any relevant papers and passport. Remember the passport is not legal proof that the horse is actually owned by the seller so ask if there is a receipt as proof of purchase. It is unlwful to buy or sell horses without a passport.
Ask if all vaccinations are up to date. A course of innoculations can cost a lot of money and take months to come into effect if you wish to compete. It will not go down well moving a horse to another horse if it is carrying an illness along as well.
Once you've chosen you new horse, employ a qualified vet to perform out the most thorough check that you can afford. Don't make a rush decision or be forced into buying if you believe you need the horse checked out by your vet.
Try to see your chosen horse or pony demonstrating the tasks you would like it to do. Having to reschool a horse will add a considerable amount to the cost if you cannot do this on your own.
Try to negotiate a trial period in which the horse can be returned if it is not suitable.
Always be realistic when looking to buy a youngster, do you have the necessary knowledge to bring it on. Looking at it differently, an older horse may just have the character and experience to give you confidence and help you learn you the ropes.
Don’t feel you have to buy the first one you view and don’t be pursuaded by the multitudes of others that are waiting to purchase the horse if you don’t – more than likely this is just a ruse to rush you to make an impulse purchase. Take your time when buying a horse.
As soon as the sale is agreed take out insurance on the horse before you transport it. The majority of injuries happen in transit or whilst introducing a horse into a new yard with other horses.
Trust your instinct – if you think the vendor is concealing something from you then the likelyhood is they are.
Remember that your horse is a major investment of both time and money – be sure you have budgeted accurately for all the expenses that you will encounter.