by Ann Dennis

Created on: May 07, 2008   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

The benefits of buying your child a horse are many. But you must be prepared to research, study horse care and spend many hours looking for the perfect animal for your family.

Do not buy your child of any age or ability a young horse. Don't let the seller convince you that your child can grow up with their horse. It doesn't work that way and can, and has, ended in tragedy. Buy an older horse that is healthy and willing to listen. For a younger inexperienced child I would even suggest a horse in the ten to fifteen age ranges. However you must consider the emotional toll when this older horse passes on and it will happen sooner, even though the life span can be as much as thirty to thirty five years. As your child gets to be a better rider, or if they already are, then you might decide to go with a seven year old or above. It depends on the child and their ability. But remember that ability doesn't mean the same thing as maturity. You need to gage your child as well as the horse. A perfectly wonderful horse that doesn't fit with the rider is a problem.

Things to consider before buying a horse:
Is there someone knowledgeable about horses that you can consult? Especially in the middle of the night when the horse is acting funny and you don't know if it's colicing or about to give birth or just itchy. It's better if that person is in the family but it isn't necessary.

Is your family emotionally and physically ready to take on the care of a being that has needs that are equal to a 2 yr. old? That includes feeding, bathing, and cleaning up poop. Where will the horse sleep and play when the rider and his/her family isn't entertaining it?

Is there a riding instructor available?

Are you willing to buy a horse that fits your child's needs no matter what color it is? Looks mean something to people. You must honestly assess how you and your child feel. If you want a Palomino and the best horse is black can you accept that?

After you've considered all the ramifications, it's time to decide if your child actually wants a horse. If your child is a girl the answer is probably YES.

The benefits come in many ways and are sometimes surprising. Like all activities, and life itself, it is what you make it. The biggest benefit is that the child learns about the needs of another creature and how that affects others.

Riding has physical and mental benefits. A rider has to be able to balance and keep track of what his mount is doing at all times. An important bit of information, the horse

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