When looking for horses for sale, there are a few points which are worth thinking about in order to make the buying process run smoothly, and to make sure you end up with your dream horse.

• No horse is perfect – just be sure that your chosen one has niggles that you can put up with and that won’t affect your enjoyment.
• Bring an experienced rider with you, someone who is knowledgable of your capabilities and strengths. In an ideal world take someone experienced who is capable of spotting lameness or any illnesses. Or perhaps your instructor who will be able to tell if the chosen horse is suitable for your style of riding – your level of skill and confidence.
• Always check the horse’s papers and passport.  Remember the horse passport is not legal proof that the horse is owned by the person selling it so ask to see a receipt as proof of purchase. It is unlwful to sell or purchase a horse without a passport.
• Ask if all vaccinations are current. A course of innoculations can cost a lot of money and can take months to come into effect before you can compete.  It will not go down well if you move a horse to another horse if it is carrying an illness with it.
• Once a decision is made, employ a qualified vet to carry out the highest vetting that you can buy. Don’t rush or be forced into purchasing if you feel you need the horse checked out by your vet.
• Try to watch the horse or pony performing the trials you would like it to do. Reschooling a horse adds considerably to the cost if you aren’t in a position to do this on your own.
• If possible negotiate a trial loan in which the horse can be sent back if it is not suitable.
• Always be realistic when purchasing a youngster, do you have the necessary knowledge to bring it on. Another thought is that, a more mature horse may just have the stability and experience to build your confidence and help you learn you the ropes.
• Don’t feel you have to buy the first one you see and don’t be pursuaded by the multitudes of other people that are waiting to purchase the horse if you don’t – more than likely this is just a ploy to rush you to make an impulse purchase. Take your time when buying a horse.
• As soon as the sale is completed take out insurance on the horse before you consider transporting it.  The majority of injuries happen in transit or whilst introducing a horse into a new yard with new companions.
• Go with your instinct – if you believe the seller is hiding 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 considered a budget for all the expenses that you are likely to encounter.

Finally, have fun with your new addition and look forward to many hours horse riding together! Click here to find horses for sale online!

Filed under: All About Horses, Buying A Horse, horse buying tips, Horses, horses for sale