Cowboys and Horses
Ideas and tips for when you are going to buy a Horse
You can find horses for sale from private owners and dealers. The purchase price of horses, obviously, varies.
In general, the better trained the horses are, the more expensive they become. There are many factors that affect the price of horses, so do your research and choose carefully within your budget. If you're a first-time horse owner, it's probably best to avoid buying at auction and keep in mind that the horse world has its share of selling secrets that you, most likely, don't know about.
Most horse dealers and owners are honest and want the best for the horse. As with buying anything else, do your research. Keep in mind that no matter what the price is, the responsibility and expense will remain the same.
Sometimes, people who own older horses are glad to have them in good retirement paddocks. This can be a plus for a beginner, who will receive the use of a well-trained and educated horse. These older horses may require a bit of extra care, but are well worth it for what they can teach a beginning rider.
It is possible to lease the use of a horse. While you rent the horse, it is usual that you bear all the costs of its care. Very often, show horses are rented. Leasing can be quite an expensive option, although it may allow you to ride a horse that you might not otherwise be able to afford.
Mistakes when buying the first horse
Buying a horse for the first time is an exciting experience. However, it is essential to do some research beforehand on the responsibilities, costs and care that a horse requires, because the wrong animal can ruin the fun of riding and it can be unsafe. Try to avoid the top mistakes new horse buyers make.
Many experienced horsemen and women will tell you that they see this all too often. Because untrained horses are often cheaper, or for some other whim, beginning riders will choose untrained horses. Do not buy a horse that you plan to train yourself or even plan to send to an expert. Training can take months. It can be dangerous if not done right.
An older horse, who has seen the world, is an excellent horse for beginners. Beginners often put aside a horse in its late twenties. However, many healthy and vigorous horses can be ridden well into senior age. In fact, light daily exercise, such as a leisurely walk, can be beneficial to both horse and rider.
Buying a young horse to grow up with your children is a romantic idea, but the reality is that young horses and young or beginning riders are not a safe combination.
Buy your children a mature, well-trained horse that they can saddle the same day you bring it home. Buy a horse that knows how to handle itself when all the frightening aspects of the world come their way, because a young beginner won't know how to do it. On an older, well-trained horse, children will learn and have fun more safely.
Buying horses at auction is not highly recommended if you do not have experience in the subject. It takes a good eye to pick a good horse out of an auction. Horses can appear docile at auction because they are so confused that they "freeze up". Horses can be drugged to make them look calm or healthy. Heaves and lameness can be easily hidden with medication.
Do not buy a horse at first sight. Try the horse out, try again, ask lots of questions; think about it for a few days. Look at other horses besides the one that impressed you and make comparisons. Make sure you have chosen the most suitable horse for you.
Don't be afraid to ask the seller for a trial period. Most private owners want their horses to go to good homes and trust the type of person they feel can handle the horse. Some dealers may agree to a trial period or help you find another horse if the one you're looking for doesn't work out. Just ask. And if you get a "no" answer, ask why. There may be a valid reason.
Don't buy a horse just for its particular color.
Horse ownership is a great responsibility. Horses do not stop eating and drinking on the weekends when you want to leave to rest. The expenses do not stop because you want to spend the money elsewhere, or you have not been able to work.
Ask for your Favorite Llanera Song and we will send it to you, for FREE, by Email