Buying a Horse: A Checklist for Bringing Your New Horse Home
By Lindsey Forkun, www.LFEquestrian.com
How exciting that you have a new horse and you are bringing them home! Whether it be to a boarding stable or you own backyard, there are some important things to think about.
Here is a simple checklist:
1) Talk with your veterinarian: you’ll need to set up de-worming, vaccinations, dental, and other care for your horse.
2) Talk with your farrier: you’ll need to get your horse on a trim schedule
3) Get any new tack or supplies: you may need new things for your horse like blankets, skin treatments, supplements, tack, or basic items like halters and lead ropes. Some important things to have on hand are:
- Lead rope
- Halter
- Wound Care: Blue Lotion or Silver Spray are popular
- Gauze Pads: to clean out cuts and scrapes
- Swat: a fly repellent you can safely put on wounds
- Grooming Set: a full set of brushes and hoof pick
- Salt lick: it is important for horses to have access to salt
- Bute (from a vet) or Nasprin (Herbs for Horses) in case your horse gets ill
4) Set up a nutrition consultation: many local feed stores will offer nutrition consults for free. Check with your local feed store. This will help make sure your horse is getting the nutrients they need.
5) Consider Other Equine Services: there are many equine professionals including trainers, massage therapists, chiropractors, saddle fitters, dentists, and acupuncturists. Think about your horse, your needs, and what you want to do.
Owning a horse is often a fun and rewarding experience! Enjoy your new horse and if you aren’t sure about something, ask for help from a professional before an issue comes up.
Lindsey Forkun is dedicated to promoting positive partnerships through humane natural horsemanship for all equine disciplines. Free online advice, articles, and videos. Offering natural horsemanship products and services, learn more at www.LFEquestrian.com
