Returning to horses - oldie or native?

A

Am1

Member
Joined
10 June 2020
Messages
11
Visit site
Hi everyone,
I’m returning to horses after some 7 years away. Fortunately for me there are a couple of places set up nearby where I can have some lessons on some well schooled horses, to help me get going again. I’m enjoying it. And although rusty, it’s not half as bad as I thought!. I’m going to take my time and continue with these lessons. But long term I’d like another horse. I’m keen to not get something really hot - (I’ve had a PRE in the past). I’ve been out of the saddle too long and it will be some time before I’m capable of riding that sort of horse and I wonder if that would be fun for me now anyway?
What would you recommend? Do you think I’m likely to find an older but sound horse out there that might like a nice life with me having lessons, some low level dressage (prelim / novice / ele) and hacking? Or do you think I’m better off finding a native. That will likely fit the bill, be fun but not too hot?
Thoughts welcome!
 
I would keep an open mind, the most laid back bomb proof horse I’ve ever had was a pre, they aren’t all super hot!
Something that’s been there and done it with a history is probably a good idea so that you can go out without the worry attached, maybe a nice Connie or similar?
 
It really depends on what you want to do, what your finances are and what your set up is. The key, I think, is to be honest with yourself and buy for where you are now. Not for where you might want to be.

If you buy an older horse you might end up not being able to sell again and managing the horse through retirement. Is that OK with you? Do you have the land / finances? If not- don't but an older horse.

Whats your budget? Are you fishing in a popular pool? If so - can you afford what a decent one will cost? If not- where can you compromise?

You say you don't want a hot horse with reference to a PRE - but many natives are not at all hot under saddle but need some very serious handling on the ground. Is that something you are prepared for? Not all warmbloods are hot. What is it that you, with your currenmt level, define as hot?

Often a good way back in is a loan or share -and I suspect there are going to be a lot in the next few months. Would that suit?
 
I’d avoid Welshies if you don’t want hot but other natives are usually fairly sane. Saying that I think keeping an open mind is good. You want a safe steady horse and that could come in any breed.
 
You don't say how old you are but I would just say that older human hips and natives with wide backs do not always make a heaven-made match! Just a thought.
 
Thanks all for your replies and advice.
You’re right that I should keep an open mind.
A loan would be ideal but I wondered for what I was after if that would be hard to find.
In terms of set up I’ve made my mind up that I would be on livery - part or full. I think it sets me up for success, having some support and hopefully people around. I have in the past kept at private yards but the idea of riding with no one around doesn’t excite me anymore.

Interestingly I’ve had a Connie and a Welshie in the past. I’m open minded to breeds but when I started to search dressage horses, a lot of what I saw looked super athletic. And I guess that’s what I meant by hot. I won’t be able to handle an athletic horse right now. Something with history and been there like Littlebear says, appeals to me.

Age wise im approaching mid thirties.
 
Thank you for your advice. It’s really appreciated and helpful. As such I am making enquiries and being open minded.

I’ve been away from horses for 7 years. And as you’d expect the horsey world has moved on. I wondered if anyone would be willing to share (PM if you prefer) what a realistic budget would be?

I absolutely appreciate that time and care (along with blood, sweat and tears) will have been put in but I’ve had quite a range of prices and I just want to know I’m being sensible. Having been a way from horses for a while my network is quite small and so not a lot of people I can ask!

Thanks
 
Trouper said:
You don't say how old you are but I would just say that older human hips and natives with wide backs do not always make a heaven-made match! Just a thought.
Click to expand...

^^^ This!! Agree totally.

Also traditional cobs; I've got one (profile pic), and although she's still just a youngster she's got a temperament to die for, but oh dear she's a wide tubby beastie and my hips tend to complain a bit! I still love her to bits tho' :)
 
  • Like
Reactions: Am1
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top