I Want a Pony! (Part 3)

 


It’s time for the purchase... 

Checklist:

  1. You can provide all basic health and welfare requirements to keep a horse happy and healthy.
  2. You have adequate time to fully commit to a horse and all the care it requires!
  3. You have enough money to provide for the care a horse needs?
  4. You have a suitable property/agistment facility lined up to keep a horse on?
  5. You know what equipment and supplies you need to care for a horse.
  6. You know what type of horse you want. 

A couple of tips...

  1. Prior to purchase, arrange an examination of the horse/pony with a reputable vet that you have organised - do not take a sellers word as to the suitability or soundness of a horse as there may be underlying problems which have brought about the sale.  While a vet check can be expensive, it may save you from buying a horse that is unhealthy, lame or otherwise unsuitable.
    Take a trusted horse expert with you to assist in selecting a suitable horse.
  2. Arrange a trial period (if possible) before committing to a purchase - this will allow you to find out if the horse is suited to you.
  3. Check out this recent article by Equus Magazine on “8 Rules for Buying a Horse”  

Alternatives to Horse Ownership...

  1.  If you’ve crunched the numbers and decided owning a horse isn’t within your budget at the moment, you can...
  2. Take riding lessons at a facility that offers the use of their own school horses.
  3. Lease a horse/pony - many owners offer their horses/ponies for lease to keep the horse in shape when the owner themselves is unable to ride. Leasing offers the owner an opportunity to offset ownership costs while ensure their horse get all the love and attention they deserve.
  4. Volunteer your time at a rescue center, riding center, stables etc. You’ll learn vital skills that will help you when you do eventually purchase your own horse. 

Final notes...

  1. Horse riding is great exercise
  2. Horse riding gives you the chance to get outside
  3. Horse riding is a social activity
  4. Horse riding helps you build a relationship with your horse whilst taking some time out
  5. Horse riding teaches important life lessons and skills
  6. Horse riding teaches you to care for your horse
  7. Horses are wonderful companions
  8. Horses require daily care
  9. Horse Welfare and safety should ALWAYS be your TOP PRIORITY
  10. View the PCA Horse Welfare Policy HERE


Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)