Having quit a bit of experience with horses I’ve learned a few things along the way. Wether it be complete strangers, veterinarians, family and friends; getting advice on something I love has always be taken to heart. When making the decision to add a new horse to your family it isn’t as simple as just going and buying any ole’ horse. Who you're buying it from, the conformation of the horse, and general characteristics about the horse can play a big role in whether the horse is right for you.
When you first start searching for a horse you should really look into reputable people to purchase the horse from. Just going off the internet and buying one from someone you’ve had no experience with can be really risky. Its always good to check with local veterinarians, friends with horses, and even asking local sale barn auctioneers/employees. If you do happen to find someone you don’t know with a horse your really interested in ask for references. The last horse I purchased I had no idea who the person was that was selling him so I made sure they gave me at least five references. Most people if they are reputable will have no problems doing that for you. Once you get the references its always a good idea to meet them and the horse at the current owners house or where ever it is that they keep their horse. You want to make sure you see how the owner and the horse interact with each other in their own environment. Also knowing what kind of environment the horse is use to is very beneficial to make the change of a new location easier on the horse.
When you finally meet the owner and the horse looking over the horse very well should be your next step. You want to make sure the horse doesn’t have any lameness issues and is completely sound. Sometimes its also a good step to ask the owner before even coming to see the horse if they are open to you taking it home and having your own veterinarian look the horse over before purchasing it. You want to pick up the...