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Shopping For a New Horse? Read This First
Are you in the market? Kate Kosnoff guides us through a few critical steps in the horse-shopping process.
So, you’ve decided that it’s time for a new horse. Congrats! This is a huge deal. You’re probably super excited and may not know where to start. Don’t stress. Buying a new horse is one of the most exciting experiences to happen to equestrians, but it can also be frustrating and tricky. Here are some tips that can simplify the process.
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Photo by Kate Kosnoff
- Don’t fall in love with the first horse you try. Chances are, he or she won’t be the last horse you try.
- Make a list of what you want in a horse. If you know what you’re looking for, the process becomes slightly easier. Want a bombproof horse that will pack a timid rider around? Avoid the greenies and look for an older, steady-eddy type.
- If you find a great horse, take him in on trial. Don’t pull the trigger too soon; ride him or her several times before you write the check so that you’re absolutely sure you’ve found the one.
- Vet-check any horse before you buy or lease it. Read that again. This is not optional. Don’t skip this step. An x-ray or a soundness check can reveal something that the naked eye cannot. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. Horses are expensive. Vet-check them.
Shopping for a new mount can be extremely overwhelming and stressful, but it can also be a positive learning experience. Make sure that you use an experienced horseperson (a trainer or professional rider) to aid you in your search.
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Photo by Kate Kosnoff
In our modern age, the Internet can also be a great resource for finding horses. Sites like Big Eq, Exchange Hunter Jumper, and Equine.com are great tools in the horse-buying process and can give you a feel for what’s out there. Don’t be afraid to shop around! After all, your new mount will become a part of the family.
Go shopping!
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