Buying a horse is a major decision financially and emotionally which every rider wants to get right. We understand your concerns and aim to cover some of them here.
We are introducing a new owner request form which is designed to help us identify the most suitable type of horse for your particular situation.
Finding the right horse isn't easy, especially when you have little prior experience assessing suitable horses.
Many of you have previously bought an unsuitable horse which is understandably upsetting, but a mistake can help you make a better decision next time. Try to examine your feelings about what went wrong, even if this is painful. It's important to monitor your emotions when trying a new horse, and if in doubt it's best not to rush into a decision based on looks, competitive record, or status upgrade.
Our advice goes beyond the usual height/breed/ age considerations, and only you know what you are experiencing during your visit; if a horse makes you feel uncomfortable or nervous, then it's probably not the right one for you.
Our horses receive a proper training, but they're not all equally suitable for you.
Every horse is an individual, and you will find youself drawn more to one over another, just as in life you can get on well with a particular person, but not another. We are here to help you select a horse whose personality complements your own, and whose movement and way of going suits your build.
If you've just started to look, you may want to further research the current market.
It's easy to fall in love with the first horse you see, which can blind you to future incompatabilities. Translating this into human terms, most people go on a few dates before finding their long term partner, and it's usually helpful to look around before arranging a visit.
Assessing suitability
When you meet our horses, you will be invited to ride out with us in a location that best suits you. For instance, if traffic is a big concern, we will ride where we know lorries etc. are likely to be encountered. Similarly, if open spaces are a worry, we will head for some big fields. We believe this is a good first step in assessing a future partnership, and more relaxing than feeling you're under the microscope trying a horse in the school.
This initial and significant part of the process, during which we are aware of subtle reactions between yourself and the horse, also gives us less visible signals that are important indicators of future success. These will be discussed in detail with you later.
Further advice on buying the right horse
We notice some people find it hard to relax with certain horses, especially those with a bigger personality or a particularly impressive physique. Feeling uncertain in the company of a horse can have an impact on confidence in the saddle. We try to observe your interaction, and would always advise choosing a horse you are truly comfortable to handle on the ground.
Buying a horse is exciting as well as a big responsibility, and so much more enjoyable if done without worry or pressure. Spending time with us allows you to evaluate and discuss the best way forward. It's important for us to help you make the right decision based on your level of riding and current experience.
We encourage prospective buyers to arrange a visit simply to meet us and discover an alternative way to find the right horse which is less stressful and more satisfying for everyone involved.
