What will your horse look like?
Most people do not understand how to choose their first equine partner or why the choice is so important. Most beginning horse owners do not think about everything that goes into the purchase of their first equine. Cost, age, gender, and what you plan to use the equine for all play an important role in your choice.
The first thing to consider is cost. Most equine will cost about a hundred dollars a month to feed, plus tack, vet care, farrier bills, and stabling. “In the USA horses require a yearly (or sometimes twice yearly) Coggins test. This test checks for EIA or Equine Infectious Anemia. Without it you will be unable to go to shows, trail rides, horse camping facilities and clinics.”(http://www.lovehorsebackriding.com/first-time-horse-owner.html) Then you must decide what you want to use the equine for. If you want to do western type showing, a quarter or paint horse might be a good fit. Perhaps you want to do hunter jumper, probably a warmblood would be a good choice. Gender is important to many riders. Most want to ride geldings (castrated males) because of their calmer dispositions at shows. However mares can be used for breeding in the future if you decide you want the responsibility of a foal. The age of the equine is important because a young horse normally is not a good match for young or novice riders. The more age a horse has means the more experience it has taking care of the rider. A good, sound older equine is most generally what novice riders need just to get experience to start riding.
The first equine partnership is so important to the development to the rider’s skills and their confidence. Do not rush to find that perfect horse. Look around at the different options and take your time deciding what you want out if the partnership. Equine ownership is a big responsibility and you must decide if you are ready for the challenge.
Arena Buddy 