Consider Buying an Older Horse
Most are already well-trained. For less than the cost of a well-schooled younger horse, you can get an older one. You can start having fun with your older horse right away, rather than needing to send him to a trainer initially. For those who want to ride recreationally, this means you can hit the trails and enjoy yourselves. For those wanting to show, you can do that. Finding out the horse's history from the sellers will tell you whether or not the horse will be a good fit for your goals.
They are generally more bombproof. They've been around the block and seen more. You'll enjoy your rides more knowing you have a safe horse that has already been exposed to things like dogs, cars, and snow falling off the roof of an indoor arena
Their purchase price is less. The cost of caring for them may be more than with a younger horse (supplements, senior grain, etc.) but their other benefits make it worth it. When buying any horse it is important to get a vet check so you know what you're getting into.
Some hotter breeds, such as Arabians and Thoroughbreds, become more calm in their older years. Naturally this depends on the individual horse and is not true in all cases. Arabians tend to be long-lived and hardy, and are sometimes priced competitively due to their smaller stature.
An older horse will need good dental care to ensure that he is able to keep weight on well. He may need a special diet so he gets enough nutrients, such as beet pulp or rice bran. Some older horses may be lower on the herd pecking order and not get as much food, so that is something to monitor.
Yes, there are end of life issues you'll have to deal with, but the reality is that any horse might need you to make tough decisions. Younger horses can also die from colic or go lame, so you aren't really avoiding risk entirely by getting a young horse. The older horse has a lot to offer, and if you take care of him he'll take care of you.
Published by Lisa Ross
Lisa Ross is a writer living in Minnesota. When she's not writing, she can be found at the barn. She is fascinated by viewpoints from off the beaten path, and frequently tries to provide those of her own.... View profile
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3 Comments
Post a CommentGood article.
I am going to have to disagree about older horses needing more care than younger ones. In my experience they need less because they are less like to get into trouble and damage themselves.
All horses need year care, shots, dental etc. Regular worming and hoof care is again something they all require to remain sound, healthy and active. The difference is the younger horses will get to romping around and crash and burn. This quickly starts to add up vet bills and get in the way of enjoyment as they are laid up with their owies.
Give me the old guys every time.
I just want to say that my mom bought an Arab mare that was 23 years old at the time; she lived to be 33! We also bought her daughter, one of my present horses, and she is now 29 years old and still enjoying rides. Sure there is a little more special care that they need, but they are worth every minute of it! Never rule out the older horse.
Good thoughts on the older horses. Many folks say a person's first horse should be at least 10. We have youngsters, but we still adore our seniors! (I even wrote about them.) The older horses require more care, but they are so faithful and safe!