Advice for first time owner

[K2083]

Hi, I am currently looking at purchasing my first horse. I am now at a stage in life when I feel like I can afford one but I am looking for some advice from people who may be in a similar situation. I have been riding since I was a child and used to regularly help out at a yard so happy with all the basics of horse care. I appreciate how different this is from owning your own horse and I'm slightly worried I won't have enough knowledge. I am looking for a local livery yard which does DIY/part livery so there is always someone to pay/assist to help out as I work shifts. I have seen a horse which seems perfect for what I want (happy hacker) but would you be put off by buying a horse who is 13/14 years old? I have ruled out sharing due to my work schedule and I couldn't commit to regular days. Hopefully looking for some encouragement to make me realise I can do it!

 

[SallyBatty]

13/14 is not old these days. I bought mine when she was 16, she is now 28 and still going strong hacking and schooling although I did stop jumping her last year. I keep her on part livery as I can't get to the yard every day due to work and elderly mum commitments. Go for it!

 

[Pearlsasinger]

At 13/14 a horse is still in its prime and perfect for a first time owner as it should know its job. It sounds as if you will have a good support system in place. You certainly can do it!

 

[K2083]

Thanks both! I’m very nervous but really want to take the leap 😊

 

[K2083]

Thanks both! I'm very nervous but excited to take that leap

 

[Red-1]

The horse sounds perfect age wise, as long as he/she is sound and sane. I would also add that the horse should be doing basically what you want to. You CAN teach an old 'dog' new tricks, but TBH when buying a middle aged horse I would prefer they are already basically educated in what I want to do.


Part livery also sounds perfect as you will have back up and other people, depending on the yard. Good yards can be busy, and the right yard can make or break the experience, so I would not delay in visiting yards and even paying for a stable if there is just one stable on a desirable yard, to reserve it.