Jessi's Q & A - Fall 2008
By Jessica Lohman
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So You Want to Buy A Horse
Q: I am interested in purchasing a pleasure horse that I can trail ride a few times a month and take on short hacks through the fields during the week. Where do I start looking?
A: When going to look for a horse, always enlist the help of a professional or at least a trusted friend who has some horse knowledge. With pleasure horses, I’d start on the web at sites like www.DreamHorse.com or with a local horse-trading publication. Professional Auction Services (www.professionalauction.com) hosts many sales in the Southern States territory. You are likely to find a quiet pleasure horse that the whole family can enjoy at their sales.
Q: What are the most important things to look for in buying a pleasure horse?
A: A great brain! Don’t buy for color. Don’t buy for looks. Neither are important in horses that will be ridden for pure pleasure. You want a horse who will be well behaved whether he’s ridden once a month or 20 times a month. He needs to be able to load, clip, cross tie, cross over water, be bomb-proofed, ride well alone (or with others), behave in a stall or in a field (alone and with others), etc. This horse is supposed to be a true pleasure to own. You want to be able to hit the trails on your horse to clear your mind and not worry if your horse is going to slam you into a tree or not.
Q: How important is it to have a prepurchase exam done on a pleasure horse?
A: Great question. It all depends on the age and price tag of the horse. If it’s an older horse that is relatively inexpensive, I’d get a basic vetting done, but I wouldn’t be overly concerned with getting x-rays. Chances are the older/cheaper horse is going to have a few maintenance issues (navicular, arthritis). If these problems can be controlled with mild daily medicinal care, I think you will be fine. If it’s a younger horse, who is a littler pricier, pull out all the stops. Even young horses can have major issues. If you ever plan on reselling the horse definitely get a full vetting with x-rays done.
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