Equestrian Horses for the New Owner
Posted on January 14, 2011
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Buying equestrian horses can be a challenging and difficult task especially if it your first horse. Take your time and apply a few “do’s” and “don’ts” to this process and you will come out a winner. A new horse can be both a pet and a good companion.
Let’s start by talking about some things you should do.
Inquire about the horse’s date of birth. This is probably better than asking how old the pony is. It indicates you want an accurate answer. Remember a horse is in his prime at an age of five to ten years. An older horse is actually a better choice for a beginning rider. Ask whether the horse is a gelding or a mare. Mares can be difficult during their heat cycles so a gelding may have a better disposition.
Ask if the horse is registered and if the owner has the registration papers. If not the horse would be considered a “grade” horse and would have a lower value. Either one could be fine depending on what you are looking for.
Find out what the horse’s height and weight are. A good equestrian horse for everyday riding is about 15 H.H. ( hands high) where a hand is four inches. Take this measurement along the front leg between the ground and the withers of the neck. The weight of the horse can vary greatly with the breed. Some breeds can be stockier than others.
Inquire as to how many previous owners have owned the horse and why he is being sold. Too many previous owners could signal equestrian horses with a bad disposition or health problems. Find out the reason for selling to avoid either of these possibilities. Ask if the animal can pass a vet exam and ask if the horse has had any injuries. Mentioning the vet exam could cause the owner to disclose something he would have not otherwise disclosed.
Find out what the horse has been used for and if he has had any training. Match the horse’s background to your needs. Do you want a nice horse for pleasure riding or do you want a horse for equestrian horse jumping or equestrian sports. Are you interested in horse shows, thoroughbred racing, equestrian polo, dressage, eventing, or rodeo competition?
There are some mistakes to avoid when seeking equestrian horses for sale. Rejecting an older horse can be a mistake because these animals make good riding horses for beginners. Healthy equestrian horses can be ridden into his twenties. Do not try to match a young inexperienced rider with a young horse. A better choice would be an older gentle animal for your youngster.
Do not buy equestrian horses at an auction especially if it is your first horse. Horse health problems can be masked by drugs. An animal with a bad disposition may not show it at a public auction. In general it is little more difficult to get to know your horse in an auction atmosphere.
Another mistake can be not taking into account the time and expense of horse ownership. Talk with other owners to find out how much it will cost to feed your new animal. Inquire as to what some of the vet bills can cost. Remember that the horse will need care when you go out of town for the weekend.
Do not buy a horse based on its color. You may have a particular coat pattern or color in mind but this should not be your first priority. Follow the guidelines set forth above first in purchasing equestrian horses.
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