trying a new horse

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KimLovesStorm

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So I am trying a new horse on Sunday what should I look out for when I am trying her? I also have my instructor with me to give me her opinion

Thanks
 
Well your instructor should be able to help but few basics are to check she matches the ad eg with age and height. I went to see a 14.2 that was actually 13hh!!
What has she done? Does the seller think she will be suitable for what you want to do? Any competition history?
Will you be leaving her alone in a field or stable at any point? If so will she be ok alone?
Do you want to hack alone? If so does she hack alone? Ask to see her do this
What is she like with dogs, bike and farm machinery? Again is possible ask to see
Any issues such as lami sweet itch crib biting? Look for evidence of rubbed tail, bitten posts or stable etc
Is she mareish in season?
How long has the seller had her and why are they selling?
Does she come with any tack or rugs?
When are vacs and dentist due? Are they up to date? What is she like with vet, farrier and dentist? You don't want to end up with something that has to be sedated for shoes and vacs if you can help it
What is she currently fed if anything?
Any allergies or bedding issues?
Ask to see the passport, if nothing else to make sure there is one
Does she load and travel? If there is a box or trailer handy ask to see this
Is the seller open to a vetting? If not why not?
 
I have tentatively started looking for a new horse - went to look at the first one 2 weeks ago. I'd got all the questions in my mind on the way to the yard, then forgot to ask half of them because I got sidetracked.

So I've decided to write out a tick list for any future viewings; probably divide into 2 sections: first section to cover the visual appraisal and the second section to cover all the questions to ask the dealer/owner.
 
write a list and anything that is important for you ask to see her do (be caught, stand tied to trailer, hose off etc) first visit maybe just watch and see how she is then ride her if you feel happy.
Lots of lovely sellers but lots of dodgy ones so work on the basis that you need to check everything

Be prepared to walk away - if you want a nice friendly type and the thing tries to bit you as soon as you arrive - politely say not thanks - no need to ride / stay for ages if you don't like. I viewed one that they told me cribbed a little - when I got there is was constantly windsucking !! - I asked if that was the cribbing and yep it was so I said no thanks at that stage
 
Have a good chat with your instructor beforehand. They should be able to tell you what you need and what to look for. Better than us strangers, as they know you and your level. Good luck. Let us know!
 
Been riding for 8 years. Weekly for the first 4/5 since then 4/5 times a week. Used to loan a mare but she had to be sold. Have helped out at yards for the past 3 or so years every day. Help with schooling at yard. Ride horse out for a lady who isn't confident enough to ride him because he jumps about. Know how to take care of a horse. Jumped up to 130.

I do :)
 
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