The decision to buy a horse should never be taken lightly. Concerns must be weighed against potential benefits– for both the horse and human. “Is this the horse for me?” is no simple question.

The whirlwind that brought Mikey to our farm happened in the blink of an eye, but our decision was actually formed over time. Experience and education helped me create a blueprint for the type of horse I am looking for. Mikey comes pretty darn close to being a perfect fit.

My strongest experience has been in the sport horse arena. My network and the horse industry in my area both support the sport horse niche. I know my best chance to succeed in developing a green horse’s potential and reselling him as a made eventer, hunter-jumper, or dressage horse relies on certain criteria. Age, size, gender, experience (or lack thereof), purchase price and soundness all play a role.

What is your criteria? Think about it now, before you are gazing deep into the eyes of a beautiful horse you are looking to buy. What are your goals for your riding? For your partnership with your horse? How does this fit into the bigger picture of your family life?

Finding a horse that fits your criteria can seem impossible. Where are you willing to compromise? At the prepurchase stage of the game, bear in mind YOU DON’T NEED TO COMPROMISE! There is no sense in taking on someone else’s problems and amplifying your own!

I know what I’m looking for in a horse. I know my strengths and weaknesses when it comes to developing horses. My husband and I are clear on what’s important to us both short and long term. The decision to add Mikey to our family had been thoughtfully formed over time. It wasn’t ’til today that Mikey showed up to fulfill it.