Horse hunting......what should I ask??

[aidybex]

OK - I've made some enquiries about a horse on Project Horses. Hopefully the woman will be ringing me today and I wondered if people would have useful things to ask. I am experienced with horses but as soon as I get on the phone everything will go out my head so I'm planning on writing it all down - LOL!!

The reason he's on project horses is he rears (only on the ground not ridden) if he feels threatened or worried. We already have one horse on the yard that can do this so between me, my YO and other livery I'm sure we can manage this easily!!

My plan would be to hunt/show him in the future so I'm hoping (vibes and fingers crossed) he'll be suitable for this!! I nearly went to see an Irish Draught the other day but the woman said he bronches when you get on - and I just don't bounce that well these days!!! LOL

Hope you all had a lovely extra hour in bed - xxxx

 

[MagicMelon]

All I'd say is never assume you can manage this horse just because you've had a similar one in the past. This one may be much much worse!

You need to find out exactly when he feels threatened or worried, ask her for examples. And how bad is he? Some horses can rear and kick out with their front legs - v dangerous.

Otherwise, you must ask very specific questions. Too many people ask things like "does he hack, load, shoe etc.?" and the person will say yes. However, it doesnt mean the horse is GOOD at it! It may hack, but it might be horrendously spooky yet they way you've asked the question means the seller isnt lying! So ask things like "how is the horse to...." etc. ie. open ended ones that don't have a yes/no answer.

Definately write down as many questions as possible.

And no, I didn't enjoy my extra hour in bed as I forgot so I've been up since 6.30am!!

 

[superpony]

Mine sometimes rears on the ground when excited and he can kick out with his front legs like magic magpie said. And ive had some close calls sometimes! So make sure you do your best to find out how bad the rearing is.

Write everything down, have like a checklist. Asking everything catch, box (trailer & box), shoe, clip, traffic, hack etc. Ask if hes ever been to any competitions or hunting since thats what your planning on doing If not chances are his rearing problem could be a nightmare there!!! At least with his rearing issue you should be able to get him for a good price.

And make sure you ask about vetting. If she ums or ermmms, run a mile!

Good luck, let us know how you get on.

The extra hour was very nice.