For summer and fall ranch horse sale season, think about shopping smart. Following are 10 tips based on advice from three savvy horsemen: Roger Daly of Roger Daly Performance Horses in Aubrey, Texas; John Snyder of Colorado State University’s equine sciences program and Legends of Ranching Sale; and Joe Stricklin, DVM, a team roper from Greeley, Colorado.
- Research horses before the sale and have in mind what you want in conformation
and pedigree. - Come with a list of horses to look at, and your budget set.
- Be direct with consignors about what you’re looking for and ask questions.
- Watch the horse under saddle. If there’s a preview, don’t miss it.
- Watch horses you’re interested in walk and move, and how they act while being haltered and led. It tells a lot about temperament and possible soreness.
- Visit prospective horses at an odd time. Notice how a horse reacts to strangers, and how it acts when alone, especially in a strange sale barn.
- Get advice from knowledgeable friends, trainers or veterinarians you know. If you’ve never bid before, ask an agent or experienced friend to help.
- Make a short list of horses to see again—you’ll notice different things the second time.
- Be honest with yourself. Don’t buy too much horse—be realistic about your abilities and what you need.
- Place a premium on personality. A big, soft eye and good temperament might be worth much more than a beautiful horse with pinned ears.
