While it may be hard to find a more exciting venture than buying a new horse, before getting caught up in emotion and excitement, pause to give careful thought to your motive and purpose for owning a horse. It is important to consider the needs and characteristics of both the owner and the horse.

For example, a beginning rider should never be paired with an untrained horse. In fact, do not buy an untrained horse, even though it may be less expensive. Training a horse properly takes expertise and months of work. The outcome or final result will only be known after much time and money has been spent. It is far better to buy a trained horse that can be enjoyed as soon as it is brought home. Consider an older horse whose temperament is well established.

First, ask the seller to ride the horse while you watch. If he or she is reluctant to do so, look elsewhere. If the seller rides and you like what you see, ask if you can have a go at it, too. Always ride a horse before even considering buying it.

Other Considerations

Be careful when buying a horse at auction , even for a very cheap price. Horses can appear docile because they are confused, hungry and dehydrated or drugged by an unscrupulous dealer. Do not hurry the process or buy on impulse without following the reasonable steps you have laid out in your plan to find the horse you want.

Have your own veterinarian check the horse before committing to buy. If you are still not sure, ask the seller for a trial period. Take the horse home for a length of time to see how it fits with you, your family and your home area.

Remember that you will need to spend considerable time and money on grooming, exercise, attention, food, supplements, and health care. Be sure you are ready for the responsibility. When buying a new horse, if you make the right choice for the right reasons, you will have many years of pleasure and enjoyment ahead.

Joyce Pearson is a horse enthusiast. A specialism in training mares, with behavioural issues.

This is a guest post!:)