Horse ownership is fun and rewarding, but time-consuming and costly. It’s a big commitment and there are a lot of things to consider before jumping in. It’s important that you consider the right questions and determine whether buying a horse is the right decision for you. Unlike other hobbies, such …
Having a family horse is a wonderful thing. Before you head out and pick up the first horse you see, you’ll want to think a bit about what kind of horse it is that you need.
The intent of having a horse passport system is a good one: ideally, each horse should be matched to a passport that details the important information regarding that horse. This, in theory, would prevent stolen horses from being sold. However, this system can in practice be chaotic and is subject …
Usually, the smallest cost of a horse is the purchase price. There are also costs involved in purchasing a horse other than the purchase price itself. This article will help you discern the different steps and ways of buying a horse and help you add up an estimate of what it’ll cost to do it all.
The upkeep and maintenance of a horse are what take the most money from a horse owner. Take a look at this section to get an idea of the financial cost of owning a horse; from buying, stabling, tacking, farrier and vet costs, to worming, training and insurance.
There are few things in life that equal a rein-swinging walk to the rhythmic beat of horse hooves lulling you into a calm, meditative mood. A long trail ride is an excellent stress-reliever that quiets all those little coversations in your mind and puts you firmly back in the present …
You should always vet a horse before buying. Especially, when you’re inexperienced with horses or are buying from a seller that isn’t too familiar with the horse’s history. However, a vetting is only a snapshot of how the horse is on the day and time of the vetting. Vetting doesn’t …
A horse passport is for accurately identifying animals and making international transport easier. In the UK and EU, all equines (horses, ponies, donkeys, mules etc.) must have passports by law and cannot be sold without one. In the US passports are primarily intended for animals competing in international Federation for …
If, and when, you start bidding always keep your limit in mind. Don’t go higher than you can afford. Once the hammer falls, you’re liable to pay the auctioneer in full. When you do want to bid, make your intentions clear by showing the auctioneer the bidding number you got at registration …
Once you’ve decided on the horses you’re interested in, you can take their auction numbers and check with the auction offices where the horses came from. If you’ve seen one horse that you like, it’s possible that whoever is selling it has more horses like it — especially when the …
If you’ve had horses before you might already have an idea about the kind of build and temperament you’re looking for in a horse. Otherwise, you’ll want to get a calm and collected horse, a little older, with more experience and ready to ride. Be sure to test in various …
Because you don’t want to see your new horse for the first time in the sales ring, it’s a good idea to arrive at the auction early. Ideally, that means early in the morning when most sellers arrive with their horses. It’s the perfect time to get a look at …
