Trying out a horse

[K&K]

i don't know if this is the right area to post this but what the heck ...

i took english riding lessons for two years, didn't like my instructor and quit. since then i've ridden a few times, trails mostly (western), and exercised a few horses in the arena at a walk and trot.
i'm interested in buying my first horse but was going to wait a couple months and take a few lessons to sort of get me used to riding again, but this really great horse came up and i'm going to try him out on sunday.
the problem is i haven't ridden for at least six months and i have NO idea how it'll feel to be back in the saddle. i'm not scared about riding, just about screwing up. i'm not very comfortable with the canter because i didn't really learn it in lessons, i learned it sort of on my own, but will i get a good feel for him if i only walk and trot? i need some opinions!

ps - if we buy this horse, it will be as a pleasure/trail horse, just so you know.

[Piaffe]

Have you got a knowledgeable friend you can take with you to try the horse as well? I think this would be best. You have to bear in mind that you could ride this horse at the place where it lives, decide you want to buy it, get it home and it misbehaves!

Perhaps you should just try the horse out on Sunday, go away and think about it if you like it, then go back again - arrange to go out on the horse with the current owner.

Horse purchase is difficult at the best of times, you can't guarantee that you will end up with the right one for you. It is very important that you take someone knowledgeable with you - whether they ride the horse on your behalf or not.

It's a real minefield - be careful and don't make a decision straight away! Good luck.

[Katharine]

I agree with Piaffe about getting somebody else to go and ride it too. Also, make sure that they know your riding ability and what you want to do with it etc.
Another idea - ask if you can have the horse on trial. Understandably a lot of people are not too keen on this idea but if you can do it go for it. You will find out a lot more about the horse than if you just rode it once.
Good luck

[H & Bailey]

Hi I agree about taking another person to try the horse..Im always the person people ask I love looking and trying other horses.as I have been riding for about 17yrs and I used to teach and ride in a riding school for 3 1/2yrs so have ridden point to pointers, hunters to the smallest ponies,helped backing and bringing on horses of all shapes and sizes.I can usually sum up in about 30 mins the general temprement and wether it is suitable for that person.Make sure you take someone who will tell you straight if the horse is too much for you!!!You dont want to get in out your depth.
I usually get on first as a 'crash test dummy' if its no good tell them straight away,Then let them get on just walk test to see how easily it moves on the reins and leg yeilding halting rein back.trot do the same changing reins.If you feel brave enough this time test a canter.You want to see the horse in traffic being caught and tacked if possible,and in the stable.Pick it feet up and have a good mess about with it.When your friend or someone else is on board see it ridden away and back to see if it brushes or dishes.If they have enough room you want to see it jumped and galloped (to make sure it is not broken winded)make not of the tack and bit it is ridden in.
If the horse seems ok go back another day..get it vetted and ask for it on trial..hope this helps a little. Pm me if you need more advice as I am rambling...as I do!!!!

[K&K]

thanks very much for your pointers! yes, i am bringing a very knowledgable and trusted experienced horse person with me.

taking the horse on trial is a very good idea, i'll definitely ask the owners if they'd be willing to do that.


thanks again!

[ilovebacara]

remember to look out for behavior and personality problems too:)

[Piaffe]

Good luck then, K&K!!!

Sounds like you're doing the right thing!!

Remember, don't be disappointed if your friend feels the horse is not right for you - just think of all the fun you can have searching for the right one!!!

And if it is the right one - best of luck!!

Let us know how it goes!

[Kathleen3]

I have heard of people lending you the horse for a week and letting you try it out, if you are willing to buy(as you are)
Good Luck

[K&K]

ah well, he didn't work out anyways - he was barn sour & bucked a little too much for my fancy. he was also very unwilling to even walk in a straight line.

oh well ... i'll keep my eyes open for another.

[Piaffe]

Never mind!! Just take your time and in the meantime, try and gain as much experience as you can! There are loads of good horses out there and the right one will come along at the right time!!

I do believe in fate!