Reared when he was saddled, and didn’t float. See if the seller is willing to bring it to your property…better still, ask if you can somehow do a trial for a week or so? Paperwork and contracts may need to be done in this instance, but it pays to really investigate their nature on and off their home turf. What you’re really wanting to know is how does this horse behave when outside its normal surroundings? The only way to tell is to take it of the property. Their usual paddock mates are nearby, their sounds and sights are familiar. When we go and see horses for sale, we often head to their familiar world. Don’t risk it! Some horse brokers will assist in locating horses outside your area on your behalf, however find one you trust and who really knows what you need. While most horse sellers are honest, we know for a fact there are some who aren’t. Don’t fall into the trap of buying sight unseen. Meeting/seeing a horse in person is the only true way to know what you’re getting. Usually, this isn’t the case! In fact I highly doubt they offer click and collect anywhere when it comes to horses. In the days of e-commerce, it’s lovely to think horses may be among those things we could simply search and add to our carts. He was a beautiful Thoroughbred, but I was in way over my head.Ĭan we say hospital visit anyone? Where is the horse located? That may be so, but are you that rider? Be honest with yourself. Rarely will you read ‘this horse is a death trap waiting to happen’… More likely it will say ‘this horse needs an experienced rider who is willing to put in the work’. Remember, the seller will want to paint as good a picture as possible about the horse. It took me awhile to realise that ads are written to SELL something and not always forthcoming with the truth. When it comes to horses there are a lots of things to consider and definitely your skill level is one of them! You need to be realistic as to your own ability while you’re scanning those classifieds (or the magazine ‘HORSE DEALS‘ where I come from in Australia). Here is a quick checklist! Where are you at as a rider? What color do you love? What breed? Gelding, Mare…?Īs fun as it is, there are lots of things to think about before taking the plunge and handing over your money. If you’re looking to buy your first horse, congratulations! It’s an exciting time. My PONY doesn’t count as my first horse right? ‘Thunder’ was from the riding school I went to and I knew this little man was a true gentleman when we purchased him. It would have saved some heartache and drama for sure! And if I had my time again… These are tips I’d give myself. Honestly? It is fair to say I’ve had enough experience buying the wrong horse/s that I felt more qualified to comment on what NOT to do! In fact, I made mistakes on my first, second and third horses truth be known. Now she’ll follow me around the round pen no problem.Īny criticism, constructive or not is welcome, I’m open to any suggestions for training methods, ideas.Australian Team Member of Natural Horseman Saddles Things to consider when buying your first horse… I couldn’t hardly lay a hand on her for the first week. It seems no matter how much time I spend desensitizing, she’s still quite spooky, it was hard work earning her trust. I’ve spent a lot of time flagging and desensitizing with all different kinds of stuff,(tarp, grain bag, water hose, etc), I’ve trimmed her front feet, yet to get her backs done, but it’s a work in progress. She lost me the second time I hopped on, and I’ve only had her rear and bolt once since. I’ve ridden her a couple dozen times, of various durations, in and out of the round pen. Would love to hear opinions on her build, and overall look. I have been mostly referring to “33 steps to broke” by Sean Patrick. I will admit, I probably spent way too much time at first in the round pen, as I was and still am learning horsemanship. Took me 10 days in a round pen to get a halter on her. You bet she was as every bit stubborn as she ought to be, but she’s a quick learner and seems to have a good head on her. Picked her up for $800 as an untouched 7 yr old mare.
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