Bargain Horses--Are They Really A Bargain?

7. What type of bit and saddle is currently being used on the horse? Remember a hackamore is classified as a bit-look at those shanks! If a horse needs a strong bit or tie down, pass.

8. If the horse does not work out in 15-30 days will the seller take the horse back? If the seller really wants the horse to have a good home they will say yes.

If you answers the seller gives you are good, then schedule a time to take a look the horse. Bring a trusted trainer or knowledgeable horse friend with you.

What You Want To See on the Ranch Visit:

1. The seller haltering the horse and leading the horse out of it's pasture or corral. Watch for signs of irritability or charginess.

2. The horse tied to a hitching post, groomed, including picking its hoofs. Does the horse stand calmly? Is it agitated, pawing, ears flatten against its head, trying to bite?

3. Tacked-up and ridden by the seller (NOT first lunged or worked in a round pen). If the horse has to be lunged before it is ridden. Walk away the horse is too hot or does not have enough training on it. If the seller refuses to ride the horse leave--the horse is a time bomb.

4. Your trainer or friend rides first. Watch how the horse moves responds to leg, voice, and hand cues. If you still like what you see then ride the horse. Remember to wear your helmet.

If you still like the horse tell the seller that you'll buy him contingent on the horse passing a veterinary health exam (the best $100 you'll spend).

There are diamonds in the rough to be found, but leave those to the professional trainers who have the expertise and time to re-train a horse gone "bad".

A true bargain horse, is the horse you can ride safely and enjoy for years regardless of its purchase price.

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