When is it 'the right time'?

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ClaireP

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Hi Guys,

I have been thinking about getting a horse and loan, and I keep asking myself 'is this the right time to be taking on the responsibility of a horse?'

I used to ride when I was younger, then had a good 6 yrs off. I started riding again properly last October, twice a week, as well as, helping out at my local riding school every week.

My riding instructor says that my riding is really good considering I've only been consistently riding for around 5 months, even better than some of her experienced clients. I feel completely comfortable handling the horses on the ground, bringing in, turning out, rugging up, feeding etc. Even when they get a bit grumpy I still feel I am able to stand my ground.

So I just wanted to ask you all, when you got your first horse? How did you know it was the right time, and how experienced do you think people should be?

Thanks for reading:D
 
id go for it try part loaning first that way you will get back in to the swing of things but have help on hand if you need it
 
Thanks jensheff26.

I know I have the time, and the funds available if/when needed. My main concern is my riding going backwards if I'm not constantly having lessons, or people not wanting to loan their horse to me, as I haven't had one of my own before.
 
could you get a loan to stay at present yard where there is a instructor that way you could have lessons on loan horse and still have help, i dont think anyone would dissaprove of you still having lessons after all its a advantage knowing that there horse is being rode proporly
 
Most people carry on lessons anyway, you could find a freelance instructor if you can't carry on learning with the horse where you are at the moment.
 
There is an instructor that goes to the yard where I would keep the horse, but at the moment every time I ride, there is an instructor there saying 'watch your right hand' etc.

There will be experienced people at the yard all the time so they could always lend a hand when needed.

I'm probably over thinking this! lol. I just want to make sure I'm fully prepared.

It's a big decision!
 
If you are sure you have the time, and the money (and a bit extra money....) and you have experienced help around at the potential yard, then the most important thing is finding the right horse. Don't rush into it and don't get the first one you look at (well of course unless it perfect!)

I would definitely consider part share or finding someone local who has a few horses of their own and needs a hand.

Good luck!
 
Does the place your having lessons take you out on hacks?
As long as your confident to hack the horse and stay firm then you could just hack between lessons,
its good your thinking it through really

When I got my first loan pony we hacked out a lot and I had lessons once or twice a week until I decided what it was I wanted to focus on with my riding and with improving her

A part share might be good to start with so you don't feel too overwhelmed, everyone has problems when they first get a horse, I think its how willing they are to learn from that thats important
 
Have you considered a share initially to get you used to the responsibilities of a horse on 'your' days but with the owner still closely involved? It's a lot cheaper, less time pressured and great experience in having some freedom to hack where you like etc, not just going round on a riding school horse. Also it would give the owner of your future loan horse some confidence in your experience and ability, if the owner of your shared horse gives you a good reference. Loans are hard to find, shares are much easier.

It sounds as if you will be fine, especially if you plan to keep a loan horse at a yard where you'll have help, but this way may help you to get used to it with less pressure.

Best of luck. xx
 
yes part loan or share first. I got back into riding this time last year after 7 years off and went through the summer thinking i wanted my own more than anything. However i know i dont have the time or enough knowledge for it to be fair to the animal so put an ad out for a horse to ride and had lots of offers and the priveldge of riding 2 fantastic horses now.

Its not just about if you are a safe or experienced rider, yes everyone has to start some where but a share may defo be a good idea
 
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