Whether you rodeo or love recreational riding, there are things to consider before you buy a horse that can make a significant difference to your success as a horse owner.
Reasons To Buy a Horse
Why do you want to buy a horse? It’s one thing if you’re buying a horse for barrel racing, roping, or reining competitions, and it’s another if you’re looking to keep a horse for recreational riding. If you’re buying a horse for competitions, you’ll need to thoroughly check out its pedigree, competitive history, and training, along with its current fitness and health. Recreational riders should be no less conscientious in examining a horse’s fitness, health history, and test results.
Ongoing Costs
Prospective horse owners should be aware of the ongoing costs associated with keeping a horse, including vet services, boarding, feed, and waste removal. Additionally, they should not overlook expenses for tack and supplies, transportation, and regular maintenance.
Documentation
Ensure all necessary documentation is in order before finalizing the purchase. Review the health records, proof of ownership transfer, and, if you’re buying a purebred, registration papers. Proper documentation is essential for verifying the horse’s history and health status.
Horse Temperament, Gender, and Age
Consider the temperament, gender, and age of the horse. These factors significantly affect the horse’s behavior and compatibility with the owner. A calm, well-trained horse is preferable for beginners, while more experienced riders may seek a horse with specific traits for competitions or breeding.
Vet Services
Regular vet check-ups are crucial for maintaining the horse’s health. Familiarize yourself with nearby veterinary services that specialize in equine care. Make sure you’ll have veterinary services available near where you’ll keep your horse. Ensure you are prepared for both routine medical care and emergency situations.
Boarding, Feed, and Waste Removal
If you cannot accommodate a horse on your property, research local boarding options. Understand the costs and services provided, including feed and waste management, to ensure they meet your standards and budget.
Tack and Supplies
Acquiring the right tack and supplies, such as saddles, bridles, grooming tools, and protective gear, is vital for both the horse’s comfort and the rider’s safety. Prioritize quality and suitability over price.
- 【Material】Our Riding Crop for Horse is made of PU leather, strong and durable
- 【size】The horse crop length 18inch(45cm), will not cause you inconvenience while riding
- 【Multifunction Horse Whip】The riding crop for horses great is for daily training, and jumping racing
- 【Classical Design】The horse whip with ergonomic design, exquisite hand-woven texture, and non-slip handle is easy to hold and operate
- 【Best Gift】The riding crop for horses is best gift for friends and family who like horses
- A 7-piece assortment of grooming essentials in a durable nylon tote bag for easy organization and carrying
- Includes a comb, hoof pick, palm held curry comb, palm held face brush, mane and tail brush, dandy brush and sweat scraper/coarse curry combo
- Comfortable webbing handles, and an adjustable, padded shoulder strap
- Other features include a convenient top drawstring closure, plastic feet that protect bottom of bag, a flexible retaining strap and comfortable webbing handles
- Straw covers cap accessories compatible with stanley cup tumbler 30 & 40 oz.
- Designed inspired by cowboy hats, this straw topper is so unique and distinctive.
- Food grade silicone material, BPA free, dishwasher safe.
- Black, white, pink, brown, 1 set of 4 colors, match as you like.
- Due to its unique style, it is a good choice whether for your own use or as a christmas gift.
- These salt blocks are 100% natural and were mined in the Himalayan Mountains
- This rose colored rock salt is renowned for its high mineral content of iron, potassium and magnesium which are vital for equine health
- The high density of these pure Himalayan salt licks resist breakage and biting and last longer in weather elements
- The purest form of salt available and is safe to be left out for horses to access as desired. Rope (included) can be adjusted to the right height for your horse
- Salt blocks help reduce boredom while giving your horse a nourishing electrolyte replenishment
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Just the right amount of incentive
- SECURE * - Wrist loop strap ensures riding crop will not fall off
- GREAT FOR TRAINING - With a loud yet painless snap, the thick leather popper gives just the right amount of incentive
- GREAT TASTE GUARANTEED – If your horse does not find our Bite-Size Nuggets irresistible we will refund your purchase.
- GREAT VALUE – Over 300 horse treats per bag!
- PACKED WITH VITAMINS AND MINERALS – Packed with vitamins and minerals in each treat.
- POCKET SIZED HORSE TREATS – Small size is great for rewarding and training!
- PEPPERMINT FLAVORED TRAINING TREATS – No horse can resist yummy peppermint flavor!
- Easy to Use: the horse bling accessory clip is remarkably easy to install and remove; With the wrap cloth of hair clip being brown in color, it easily blends with horse's fur, creating a natural and...
- Ample Size and Quantity: each hair tinsel clip is about 18.8 inches or 47.7 cm in length and 1.5 inches in width, designed thoughtfully to fit well and to provide a visual impact; This package...
- Wide Application: whether it's a skillful competition or a joyous celebration, a grand wedding or a vibrant party, these hair accessories can elevate various occasions; Not just limited to horse...
- Robust PET Material: made from PET material, these bling accessories exhibit a robust construction; They are designed to withstand the wear and tear of consistent usage, promising a long lifespan;...
- Ideal Present: the horse bling accessory makes an ideal present for bridles, horse lovers, friends and more; This accessory can be truly gift worthy; With an appeal and a visual impact, the accessory...
- GREAT TASTE GUARANTEED – If your horse does not find our Bite-Size Nuggets irresistible we will refund your purchase.
- GREAT VALUE – Over 300 horse treats per bag!
- PACKED WITH VITAMINS AND MINERALS – Packed with vitamins and minerals in each treat.
- POCKET SIZED HORSE TREATS – Small size is great for rewarding and training!
- APPLE FLAVORED TRAINING TREATS – No horse can resist yummy apple flavor!
- SOFT-SCULPTED EARS: Headband features soft-sculpted ears and an embroidered muzzle.
- FAUX FUR TAIL: Fiberfill-stuffed tail attaches with a hook and loop fastener.
- EMBROIDERED EYES: Eyes and nostrils are embroidered for realistic detailing.
- SECURE ATTACHMENT: Tail attaches securely to belt or clothing.
- PERFECT FOR COSTUMES: Ideal for playtime, costume parties, or theater productions.
- STURDY BUILD: Made of tough rip-stop material that is designed to protect the saddle from any scratches and liquid damage.
- RELIABLE PROTECTION: The cover shields and protects the saddle and fittings from moisture, dust and sun.
- WATERPROOF: Your saddle will be protected from rain, leaks in the barn, etc. Great for liquid protection under damp transport conditions or at shows.
- BEST FIT: Elastic bands around the edge ensures a snug fit over most full-size western saddles.
- FASHIONABLE: Dynamic pattern selection to suit all tastes.
- 【BEST HORSE LOVERS GIFT】Everyone love horses...this is a beautiful tribute to the bond between horse and horse lovers. These angel sculptures are the perfect gift for any horse lover, young or...
- 【SENTIMENT】"Truly a Friend, Always Together with Me" written on enclosure card, you really can feel the emotion that it's trying to convey, this horse angel statue is a great reminder of the...
- 【PREMIUM QUALITY】Our angel statue figurine is made of resin material and hand-painted, nice quality and can be cherished for years. A standing angel in a white dress, with her arms around the...
- 【ANGEL DECOR】These sweet remembrance angel figurines can be placed on table, dresser, mantel, or shelf and an addition to a horse collection, just a good size to add interest In small places....
- 【EXQUISITE PACKAGES】You will receive a guardian angel figurine, a gift box and enclosure card, no additional packaging required, give this angel statue as gifts of comfort and encouragement,...
Transportation
Transportation is an aspect of horse ownership many overlook. Whether for moving the horse to different locations or attending competitions, having access to or arranging suitable transport is essential.
If you love trail rides, be sure to check whether your destination allows you to bring your horse in and park your trailer and what the rules are for trail riding where you’re going. For example, Big Bend National Park in south Texas is great for camping as a horse owner because it allows horses on its gravel roads and in limited areas in the Chisos mountains. However, you could not bring your horse on pavement in that park.
Taking a “Test Ride”
Taking a “test ride” can provide valuable insight into the horse’s behavior, gait, and compatibility with the rider. It’s an opportunity to assess firsthand whether the horse meets your expectations and requirements.
Thoroughly examining these considerations before you buy a horse ensures that you are well-prepared for the responsibilities and joys of horse ownership. Doing so will help establish a rewarding relationship between you and your horse, grounded in mutual respect and understanding.
