By: Aprylsnow
There are many factors to consider when deciding to buy a first horse. A horse can be a lifetime investment. It is a very big responsibility and takes a lot of commitment. Horses require daily care and exercise, visits from the veterinarian and also the farrier.
Things to think about before buying a horse:
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Do you have a place to keep a horse on your property? If not can you afford to continually board a horse?
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Can you spend about an hour in the morning to feed and care for a horse and then a few hours in the evenings?
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If you have a horse on your property it can be difficult to find someone responsible and knowledgeable to care for the horse while you vacation or go away on business.
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If you keep a horse on your property, do you realize this is a 24 hour day, 7 days a week job?
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Do you have experience with horses and realize they are a living creature, not a big stuffed toy?
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ALL horses no matter how safe the seller claims they are or how safe they seem to you, can be unpredictable.
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If you are inexperienced you will need to take some riding lessons to help you learn to ride.
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There are many items to purchase when you have never owned a horse before, such as saddles, bridles, blankets and grooming supplies. You also need to consider how much it will cost to feed the horse if it is not boarded.
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Why do you want to own a horse?
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Have you researched and calculated the estimated costs associated with owning a horse?
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Can you financially support a horse if something does go wrong and the horse requires extra veterinary care?
It is very important to consider all the points above before buying a horse. Horses are wonderful noble creatures and really fun to have, but they are a huge responsibility. Take time to research and learn as much as you can about horses. Take riding lessons and volunteer to help care of a horse at a boarding facility or a friend's horse to learn about what horse care entails. In the long run it will pay off to do your research and learn as much as you can before the purchase in order to make a smooth transition into horse ownership.
