Horsin' around....

Buying a horse is a big commitment in both time and money. The emotional energy spent is a large factor as well.




If you buy a horse before you lay the correct groundwork, you run the risk of coming home with a horse that isn't suitable for you. At the worst, he could be dangerous and at best, you could wind up spending a thousand dollars or more to get professional trainer to correct the problems.



Before you go horse shopping there are steps to go through.

1. Take riding lessons for at least six months.

Riding lessons will teach you the basics of control on your horse and the foundation for correct horsemanship. These lessons will teach you to ride and also how to safely groom and handle a horse. You'll also establish a relationship with a professional horse person in your area who knows you and who you can turn to for help if you need it.

2. Decide on the type of riding you want to do.

There are many types of riding styles. The most basic are Western or English. Then you can break down those two styles into many subcategories. You don't have to make one choice exclusive of all others. Many people enjoy riding both styles and compete in both.

Decide on how big a horse you need.

If you’re looking for a horse for a child, buy a pony that your child can groom and handle now. A too big horse is intimidating for a young child to deal with.



If you’re looking for one for yourself, consider the type of riding you want to do. Western styles of riding do not require a large horse and most of the stock type horses can carry a large adult even if the horse is 15 hands or smaller. A larger horse in a western class has an automatic disadvantage because he will have to work so much harder to shorten his stride. A big horse who is actually going slow is still going to pass the smaller horses and appear to be too fast.



If you want to show in hunter/jumper classes on the 'A Circuit', a 16+ hand horse is necessary to be competitive. However, if your plans are to learn to jump and go to smaller local shows, you’ll save money by buying a smaller horse.

The road is long

With many a winding turn

That leads us to who knows where

Who knows where

But I'm strong

Strong enough to carry him

He ain't heavy, he's my brother

So on we go

His welfare is of my concern

No burden is he to bear

We'll get there

A smile from a good woman is worth more'n a dozen handed out by a bartender.





THE-END