By Rita Thompson-Tinsley
Horses For Dummies is a perfect guide for equine enthusiasts purchasing their very first horse. I had ridden horses off and on throughout my life, but didn’t know anything about owning, feeding or even saddling a horse. I found a nearby training barn, took lessons and began my education of grooming and saddling my ‘mount de jour’ one day at a time.
According to my resources, it’s best for newcomers to consider geldings (neutered boy horses) ages 10+. So, of course, I chose a seven-year-old sorrel (monster) mare who eventually revealed herself as the Bride of Frankenstein by the time she was delivered to my barn. I was terrified, and she was aware of that.
My ever-astute veterinarian commanded me to “Sell this mare immediately!” for pure survival reasons. So, I did, and my next horse was a 14-year-old palomino gelding who took care of me until… I took care of him.
Lesson learned. Worth the wait. Heed to the authorities on this one, folks.
So, how does Santa choose the right horse for YOU? It’s like Baskin & Robbins out there in the horse world. There are big, medium, fast, slow, and gaited prospects. Some say that you can’t ride color, so just remember that if Santa brings you a pretty horse, you’d better make sure he has brains and is well trained or trainable.
It’s also important to remember that a bigger horse will require a bigger feed bill. A 1,000 lb. horse will need approximately 15-30 lbs. of hay intake per day, which means if you’ve chosen a big warmblood or draft, you can figure about 42 lbs. of hay or more, etc. Then, there are feed supplements, and don’t forget the carrots, apples, and peppermint sticks. (Santa won’t.)
I’m not trying to discourage new horse ownership. Owning and riding a horse is pure pleasure, almost as exciting as a reindeer sleigh ride. But caring for a horse or horses can be truly taxing—both financially and physically.
Be sure you’re in good shape, or start getting there, before you get in the saddle. Continued conditioning might include stretching, Pilates and yoga, and getting and keeping good posture and a solid core.
When you feel chronically sore (and you will if you ride), seek professional attention so that you can fix and maintain your physicality.
Being ridden also takes a toll on your horse. That means Dasher, Dancer or Prancer may need an occasional visit from the equine chiropractor you can find locally—who is soon to be adored by your trail-buddy for each and every adjustment.
Your new buddy will also need regular visits from the equine dentist to make sure his teeth are healthy for eating properly, munching on treats, and accepting a bit comfortably. And did I mention deworming treatments, farrier visits to trim hooves, vet visits for annual physicals and vaccinations, not to mention the occasional unscheduled colic?
Then there are ALL the supplies you will need such as tack, lead shanks, buckets, feeders, troughs, brushes, hoof picks, and those indispensable solutions to survive fly season in the barn and on the trail.
Known fact: Most equestrians find it more fun to shop at the feed and tack store than at any shopping mall or department store.
Keep in mind that you are not purchasing a piano or a trail bike. If this partnership turns out not to be working for you, please remember that a horse is a living, breathing beast of pleasure and sometimes burden.
Every horse is not perfect for every rider, and I hope that you’ll find your pony the perfect new home before parting ways. Please give your animal a chance to have his more perfect pairing, and hopefully you’ll find yours.
So, before pondering your next Percheron, dreaming about a dynamic dun, or tinkering with the thought of owning an off-the-track thoroughbred, please consider these NEIGHborly words of whinnyisms and choose wisely.
See ya in the saddle.
