Hi all

[Anthony]

Hello im Anthony from Burtonwood warrington, just signed up to get a little information for a future plan.
I have a daughter who is now 4 so a little young yet but she is at that stage of wanting ponys and horses . Where we live is full of stables and alot of people seem to have horses, the aera seems pretty good for riding.
Would just like some views and facts on what it takes to look after a horse, what are the costs involved and what type of breed or horse should I be looking at. Realy have not got a clue what so ever so any help will be realy helpfull.

Thanks Anthony

[Speed Racer]

Welcome, Anthony.

What a good father, to be looking into horses for your horse-crazy little one.

Instead of buying a horse for your daughter, I'd recommend lessons when she gets old enough (usually around 6 y/o).

Once she's had some lessons and her trainer can gauge her ability, the next step is to lease a horse or pony. Leases are usually kept on-farm, so your daughter will get the experience of taking care of a horse while being kept under a knowledgeable, watchful eye.

You don't have to ever buy a horse, you know. Leases can and do last for years, and at the end of them, you give the horse back.

If you'd rather purchase a horse, then the riding instructor will be extremely helpful in finding you the right horse for your daughter. But this should only be done after your daughter has the ability and knowledge to ride correctly.

Good luck. Wish my father had cared that I loved horses!

[heyycutter]

Welcome!

I agree with Speed racer, its very important to take lessons first, id say for a few years, then lease a horse and work at a barn to gain experience and horsey skills, and then, if your daughter is still crazy about them enough to own, get her riding instructors help to find the perfect one for her riding level and goals and stuff.

[Anthony]

Thanks guys, sounds great better start saving. Would like to buy a horse further down the line as id love it to be a family thing, always wanted my own horse when I was younger. I used to go up to the local paddock at weekends and the women there used to walk me around the field on her horse, I used to love it.
We take regular walks in the summer to see the ones around here and I think I enjoy it as much as her

Found a site before im trying to find again that had a break down off all the costs, its seems it will cost around £6000 to look after one in a diy stable does this seem about right.

[Vidaloco]

Welcome Anthony Sounds to me like it would be fun for both of you to take lessons together. It would be a great bonding time and a chance for you both to test your addiction. Once you get the basics down, you can buy one for both of you

[Anthony]

Think I may look around and get lessons myself now you have given me the idea, then ill have some experiance for when she is older.
Does any one know of anywhere local to me, or where I can look to find lessons.
Think a trip out to speak to some of the local owners is in order, sorry for the questions.