Christmas time is coming faster than I care to admit. It is already well into the first week of December and with only 18 days till Christmas if you are in the market for a horse or pony here are some helpful hints.
1. Decide what you want from this horse or pony. Do you want something to ride in yard with the family and just have fun with or do you want a performance animal to show or game? Is your idea of a trail ride 10 miles or 30 minutes. What is the age and the experience level of the folks who will be riding. This is one place to be totally honest. If you are an inexperienced rider be honest so that when you select your horse you get something you can enjoy.
2. Age is definitely a factor. If you are inexperienced you would do well to look for something in the 12-15 year old market. Horses of this age are settled and experienced and apt to be more forgiving while you learn. A more experienced rider might prefer to purchase something to train themselves. A green broke horse is a good option as they have accepted a rider, but need to be taught finer points such as neck reining, gaits, etc.
3. If you are looking for something to use in competition whether it be pleasure or gaming you need to get the advice of an experienced horse person to help you. Confirmation, bloodlines, etc. are all just as important as how the animal moves and handles.
4. If you are planning to purchase a horse for breeding you will want to consider a mare that has already had at least one foal, but is still relatively young. A mare that has already given birth will be easier to handle as a beginner when the due date arrives.
5. By all means ride it before you buy it. Be sure you purchase the proper tack for your purposes with the animal and make sure it is a good fit for him.
6. If you are purchasing a pony be sure to get a good size for the weight and size of the rider. A tiny pony while cute will be quickly outgrown by your children.
7. As far as gender of the horse a lot of people prefer a gelding as their temperament is usually even keeled. A mare's personality can be more challenging, but don't be afraid to consider one if you find one you like.
8. If you are spending a considerable amount of money for the purchase I would suggest a pre-purchase exam by a qualified vet.
9. Do you want something that is registered (with papers) or grade (without). If you aren't going to show or breed then registry is optional for you. Grade horses usually cost less, but for a horse that is well broke, well behaved and good for a beginner you may pay just as much.
10. Take your time, look around. Know the breed that you are interested in. Visit a few area farms and look at what is for sale. Try to avoid auctions as a rule unless you have someone with experience to go with you.
Remember you will need a fenced in area large enough for the animal to get some exercise. Shelter is not mandatory as long as there is a tree line or something for a wind break. Horses need grain and hay for roughage. Water will be a necessity and they drink about 5 gallons per day, so be sure your container will hold enough.
Hope these tips have been of some use. Happy hunting and Merry Christmas.
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