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Horses for sale and loan are advertised
in local papers, national equestrian
magazines,
and on many internet sites with dedicated
classified web pages. It is often best to
start
the search locally, extending regionally and
then nationally if the right horse has not
been found.
Other possibilities are word of mouth
through equestrian clubs, and notice boards
in
local tack and feed shops. Many equine
welfare charities have horses and ponies
available, and are experienced at matching
the right horse to a potential keeper.
When viewing and trying a horse for the
first time, it is important to be
accompanied by
a suitably experienced person. Their
independent advice and opinion can be
invaluable
in assessing the suitability of the horse
and ensuring that the requirements of the
rider
are not compromised. The horse should be
handled both in the stable and in the field,
and the prospective keeper should carry out
all routine tasks (such as catching and
leading, grooming and putting on the saddle
and bridle) prior to a ridden trial. The
horse
should be viewed and trotted in-hand on a
level surface to assess its conformation,
straightness and soundness. It is important
to ask the vendor for details of the horse’s
history, experience, current level of
fitness and specifically, whether there are
any
ailments or bad habits (vices).
The horse must be seen whilst ridden by
the usual rider before being tried by the
prospective new keeper, and should be ridden
in various situations and circumstances, to
assess suitability and safety.
At the New Home
A new horse may be unsettled as a result
of a move and may take several days, or even
weeks, to become accustomed to their new
home. A horse that appeared calm and quiet
when first tried may become lively when in
new and unfamiliar surroundings. The new
keeper should expect this and give the horse
sufficient time to settle down.
Additionally, a
new horse and rider need to become
accustomed to one another and develop a
level of
trust and mutual respect otherwise problems
can develop rapidly.
Ongoing training is the key to a long,
successful and enjoyable relationship
between the
horse and their new keeper.
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