It’s a good idea to think first of all about how much you have to spend! There’s no point in looking at horses that you can not afford. That is just depressing!
When you have chosen an amount you need to think about what you are going to do with the horse. I would advise inexperienced new owners to think very carefully about buying a novice horse, unless you have a history in training.
Be honest with yourself about your riding ability. Don’t just pick the first one that catches your eye! There’s no point in buying an eventer when all you are going to do is hack. This is a complete waste of the horse’s ability.
Take your time looking through all the different breeds. There are lots of them! And they vary in personality, and ability. Some will excel in different spheres to others, and it is important to choose the right one for you. The other thing that will vary is the height and weight of each horse.
Let’s be honest people, the horse has got to be able to carry you! There’s no point in buying a Shetland pony if you’re 6 foot 2! Be realistic about your height and weight when choosing a horse.
You also need to be able to control it. You need to be the Boss! If you are timid and not overly confident DON’T buy a pushy and grumpy horse as it will walk all over you. Quite literally!!
The first time you go to view a horse make sure it is out in the field. You are then able to see if you can approach it. If when you arrive and the horse is tacked up and ready to go there’s a reason!! Ask for it to be un-tacked and released back in to the field and see if you are able to catch and tack up yourself.
Make sure you view the horse several times and don’t forget to get a vet in to check over the horse before you hand over any money!! But more about that tomorrow!
Saturday, 25 April 2009
Choosing the horse that is right for you
Friday, 24 April 2009
Riding
Writing down a list of instructions on how to actually ride a horse is impossible! Describing how a horse feels underneath you and how to react to different movements is an unrealistic feat. Those who attempt this are stupid. You can only appreciate it by sitting on the horse.
Mastering the art of horse riding begins long before you actually get in the saddle. Just jumping on and hoping for the best could cause serious bodily injury to both you and the horse!
Horses are not human! They think, hear, smell and see in a completely different way to us. This is the most important thing to understand, for your own safety and that of your horse!
You need a solid basis of understanding on how the horses mind works and how they think before attempting anything more than petting.
Everyone likes to humanize their pets, and horses are no different. What people forget is that horses are a lot bigger and a lot stronger than us! They can cause serious damage! We like to transfer our reasoning’s and emotions to the horse and this does not work!
You must think like a horse to be able to reap the benefits. They are herd animals and they think and react as a pack. After you master this the learning curve becomes that much easier.
Horse riding can be both pleasurable and rewarding! You need to start with a good foundation and not with bad techniques and habits. I suggest lessons with at BHS Riding Establishment before you purchase any horse to see if you enjoy the activity.
BHS yards are fully covered by insurance and this allows you to appreciate the activity more, with the knowledge that if anything does happen you are covered!
Bad experiences with horses can stop people from riding all together. Although they are powerful beasts falls and injuries can be avoided and riding can be one of the best experiences of your life, if you have the basic techniques mastered!
Check back tomorrow for information on choosing the right horse for you!
Mastering the art of horse riding begins long before you actually get in the saddle. Just jumping on and hoping for the best could cause serious bodily injury to both you and the horse!
Horses are not human! They think, hear, smell and see in a completely different way to us. This is the most important thing to understand, for your own safety and that of your horse!
You need a solid basis of understanding on how the horses mind works and how they think before attempting anything more than petting.
Everyone likes to humanize their pets, and horses are no different. What people forget is that horses are a lot bigger and a lot stronger than us! They can cause serious damage! We like to transfer our reasoning’s and emotions to the horse and this does not work!
You must think like a horse to be able to reap the benefits. They are herd animals and they think and react as a pack. After you master this the learning curve becomes that much easier.
Horse riding can be both pleasurable and rewarding! You need to start with a good foundation and not with bad techniques and habits. I suggest lessons with at BHS Riding Establishment before you purchase any horse to see if you enjoy the activity.
BHS yards are fully covered by insurance and this allows you to appreciate the activity more, with the knowledge that if anything does happen you are covered!
Bad experiences with horses can stop people from riding all together. Although they are powerful beasts falls and injuries can be avoided and riding can be one of the best experiences of your life, if you have the basic techniques mastered!
Check back tomorrow for information on choosing the right horse for you!
Thursday, 23 April 2009
Buying and owning your own horse
The idea of owning a horse can make many people impulsive. The idea is to choose a horse that suits you and your needs and also one that makes your heart jump every time you see it and you are able to say THAT’S MINE! Either in your head or out loud.
This blog is going to take you through the stages of choosing and looking after your own horse, from the grooming to the field maintenance. The idea is to give first time horse owners a rough guide to the basics and allow you to make up your own mind.
There will be daily updates so keep checking!
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