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"All too often first-time buyers do not realize the cost and time required for maintaining a horse," said Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Tommy Irvin, "and some horses eventually are neglected or abandoned by their owners because they cannot afford to care for them. I urge first-time buyers to make sure they can provide the time, effort, and resources needed to properly care for a horse before they purchase it." Horses traditionally have been bought through private owners or sale barns, but in today's modern world, equine also can be purchased through the Internet. It's not a good idea to buy a horse without checking its temperament, so whichever source you use, you need to see and inspect the animal prior to purchase.
Although there are no set rules for buying a horse, following are some guidelines a potential buyer should consider before investing in equine. Look for a horse with the age and training to match the skill of the rider. Inexperienced, first-time horse owners likely will not do well with young horses that have not been ridden or trained. In order to be able to handle the horse safely, these individuals should select a horse that is older and well-trained. Also, younger horses will require training, which will add expense to your original purchase price. Have the animal checked by a veterinarian. Obtain all the horse's medical records from the owner and have the veterinarian check them. The most important document to ask for is the current Coggins report (results of blood test for Equine Infectious Anemia). If the owner cannot produce this document showing the horse has tested negative for EIA within the past 12 months, do not complete the sale until: 1) the owner has had the horse tested and provided you with this documentation, or 2) the owner agrees to allow you to have the horse tested. If you agree to the latter option, you may want to ask the owner to deduct the cost of the vet visit from the sale price since you are incurring the expense. If the horse is young and/or hard to handle, be sure to have an experienced handler on site when the vet examines the horse. Also, consult the vet about any special feeds, supplements, or special care the horse may require. Observe the behavior of the horse around people and other horses. If the horse "acts up" around other people or horses when you see it for the first time, it will more than likely exhibit the same behavior when you own it. If you like the horse but you just can't be sure of its behavior based on your first visit, ask the owner if you can keep the horse for a few days before making a decision. Consider how the horse will be used. Some breeds are desirable for certain activities, such as trail riding, barrel racing, etc. For instance, you will not want a horse noted for jumping if you want it for roping. Also, inquire if the horse is registered, and if so, ask to see copies of the registration. You also may want to check the horse's bloodline (pedigree) if you will be breeding the horse. Decide if the horse will live outdoors, in your barn, or at a boarding facility. If the horse will be kept outdoors, you will need to have pasture fences ready before bringing it home. Also, make sure to have a sturdy shed or some type of shelter to protect the horse from the elements. Some horses, especially light colored ones, can be sensitive to the sun and can get sunburned if they have no shelter. Obtain the necessary supplies for the horse. Make sure there is a local feed/seed store or a farmer in your area where you can purchase feed, hay and basic equine supplies. If you do not know the best variety of hay for the horse, consult your veterinarian. Following are some of the basic supplies you will need: lead rope, halter, hoof pick, grooming tools and fly spray. For riding, you'll also need tack supplies, such as a bridle and saddle. Unfortunately, some horse owners find themselves unable to properly care for their animals, and the animals must be impounded. Under the Humane Care for Equines Act, the department was given this authority as part of its responsibility to insure that all equine are provided with adequate food and water, and are treated and cared for in a humane manner. The Act provides for inspections, impoundment, care, and disposition, including the sale of equine. According to Equine Health Director Melinda Dennis, the cheapest part of owning a horse is the actual purchase price. "Inexperienced horse buyers often do not realize all the associated costs that come with owning a horse," she said. "It's the costs of feed, veterinary and farrier care, and sometimes pasture rent and boarding costs, that make horse ownership impractical for some people. "When equine must be impounded due to neglect or abuse, our Equine Health Staff and a number of dedicated volunteers work hard to rehabilitate them," Irvin said. Dennis advised potential bidders to thoroughly research the cost of buying and owning a horse before attending one of the department's equine auctions. "Our goal is to make sure these animals are never again in a situation in which they are neglected or abused."
For a current listing of equines for auction under the Georgia Humane Care for Equines Act please click here.
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