* No horse is perfect – just be sure that your chosen one has issues that you can live with and that won’t reduce your enjoyment.
* Bring an experienced rider with you, someone who is knowledgable of your capabilities and strengths. Ideally take someone experienced who is capable of spotting whether the horse is lame or any illnesses. Or even your instructor who can tell if the selected horse is right for the way you ride – your level of skill and confidence.
* Check the horse’s documets and passport. Remember the horse passport is not legal proof that the horse is owned by the seller so ask if there is a receipt as proof of purchase. Remember it is unlwful to buy or sell a horse without a passport.
* Find out if all innoculations are up to date. A course of vaccinations can be expensive and take many months to come into effect if you wish to compete. It will not go down well if you move a horse to a new horse if it carries illness with it.
* Once you've chosen you new horse, employ a vet to carry out the highest inspection that you can afford. Do not let your heart rule your head or be pressured into purchasing if you believe you need the horse examined by your vet.
* Where possible see the horse or pony demonstrating the trials you would like it to do. Retraining a horse will add a considerable amount to the cost if you are unable to do this yourself.
* If possible negotiate a test loan during which the horse can be returned if it does not suit.
* Be realistic when looking to buy a youngster, ask yourself if you have the required knowledge to bring it on. At the other end of the scale an older horse may just have the character and maturity to build your confidence and help you learn you the ropes.
* Don’t feel you have to purchase the first one you see and don’t be pressurised by the multitudes of others just waiting to buy the horse if you don’t – very often this is just a ruse to push you to make an impulse buy. Take your time when buying a horse.
* As soon as the sale is completed make sure you insure the horse before you transport it. The majority of injuries happen in transit or settling a horse into a new yard with other horses.
* Trust your instinct – if you think the vendor is concealing something from you then they most probably are.
* Remember that your horse is a huge investment of both your time and your money – be sure you have considered a budget for every future expense that you are likely to encounter.
Finally, have fun with your new addition and enjoy many hours horse riding together!
Author Resource:
If you're currently searching for horses for sale or ponies for sale be sure to visit www.horseandponydirectory.com.
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