A HERDSMAN'S HANDBOOK FOR THE MODERN HOMESTEADER

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It's interesting to note that there can be more variation between animals of the same breed than there is between horses of different breeds. So don't worry too much about an animal's pedigree . . . a good horse is a good horse whether he has papers or not.

Before you rush out to purchase any equine "bargain", you should always remind yourself that the word "horse-trader" did not come to mean what it does strictly by chance. The majority of people who buy and sell these animals are honest . . . but some are not! Strict attention to the following observations may help you to avoid buying a horse that is not everything you expected him to be.

If at all possible, try to purchase your first horse from an individual. In this situation, you can usually make an inspection of the home farm which, alone, will give you background knowledge about the management and feeding practices which your new pride and joy is accustomed. Most reputable dealers will usually let you try out the horse for a few days, and some may even offer some sort of health or sounds! guarantee. If the seller is hesitant to do these things I'd look elsewhere!

A livestock auction is usually not a suitable place for a beginner to purchase a horse. In my part of the county) least, auction barns are favorite gathering places for the dealers who have an inferior product to sell. Beware!! The only exception to this restriction on buying at auction would be a production sale held by a reputable breeder.

No matter where you look for a horse, try to take along a friend who's experienced with the animals and their traders. Having an advisor that you can trust will help to steer away from many poor buys.

When your search is narrowed down to one horse, you should handle him enough so that you can tell if his personality is suited to your purposes. Careful attention should be given to his actions around people and other horses.

Does he act frightened or lay back his ears, try to bite or kick when you approach? Is he easy to catch in the pasture? Is he calm during saddling and when being loaded into a trailer? Does he stand quietly when tied or is he a "halter-puller"? Does he show either fear or aggressive tendencies toward other horses?

Any one of these habits may seem to be minor by itself, but they're all vices and potentially dangerous. These bad habits are almost impossible to train out of a mature horse so, if possible, avoid them. It's much easier to get a properly disciplined horse right at the start.

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