Breeding Farm
If you’re interested in a particular breed, this can be a good option for you. However, the odds are that a farm with an established breeding program for the horse you desire will not be located close to you. For example, I would like to purchase a Connemara Pony. Thankfully, this lovely Irish breed is actively being bred in America, however, the only farm close to me is two hours away. The next closest farms are in Northern California, a major distance to travel to view/purchase a horse. On the plus side, I can inspect the mare and possibly the stallion. On the negative side, unless I purchase an older horse, any foal would have to mature for several years before it would be old enough to ride.
Horse Dealer
Dealers are fully aware of the stock available in your area and can help you narrow down your choice with less work on your part. On the negative side, not all dealers are reputable. It is essential that you get recommendations from others about the reputation of any horse dealer. A reputable dealer will offer a trial period before you buy, and also assure the soundness of the horse in writing. Also, obtain in writing the amount of the dealer's commission. Otherwise, you may be paying more for a horse than the seller even wants, because that money is instead going in the dealer's pocket as commission.
Stable or Academy
Some riding academies offer selected horses for sale. You can test ride the horse to see if it has developed any bad behaviors. While these ponies may be well-trained and gentled, they may have developed habits that will need some re-training.
Private Party
A vet check can help you determine soundness in a private party purchase, however, you need to be extra sensitive to possible behavior problems. Ask a lot of questions why the animal is being sold. Check to see how it has been stalled and look for signs of cribbing or head shyness. How does the horse handle under loose rein?
Thoroughbred Auction
This is an option for experienced riders only as the excitable thoroughbred will need to unwind from their life as a racehorse and undergo a period of turning out before it can be retrained. Be very careful to have a vet check for wind or leg problems. These horses are raced young and often, which puts a great deal of stress on the canon, hock, fetlock and knee.
Mustang Auction
A thorough analysis of mustang adoption is forthcoming in a separate article. For purposes of this discussion, suffice it to say that this is more than likely an option only for the experienced rider with plenty of time to gentle the horse at its own pace. However, the mustang is a beautiful breed and if your heart is set on owning America’s only wild horse, check back for the mustang article which will discuss auctions and what to expect.
