Read About What to Avoid at Horse Auctions

Horses can be much more affordable at an auction than from a dealer, but there is also risk involved. Perhaps even more important than knowing what to look for, it is important to know what to avoid at horse auctions. Most reputable horse dealers would strongly discourage you from buying at horse auctions. You generally won’t know much about the horses, and it can be easy to get swept up in the excitement of bidding, leading you to bid on an animal that you otherwise wouldn’t want or to pay more than you should for a horse.

Before attending the auction, research the breeds of horse you are considering buying and avoid bidding on a breed that you are unfamiliar with. The more you know about the typical health, common problems, and training issues of a particular breed of horse, the better you will be able to see beyond the seller’s hype and carefully evaluate an animal. Remember that the auctioneer isn’t there to make friends or help you find the perfect horse; he’s there to sell animals. Getting caught up in the auctioneer’s apparent excitement is an important thing to avoid at horse auctions.

Be aware that many horse auctions have no requirements regarding vaccinations or other testing of animals that are being sold. Obviously, one thing you always want to avoid at horse auctions is bidding on a horse that appears ill or lame. Be sure to have your vet examine any horse you buy at an auction, to be sure he is in good health before stabling him with other animals.

Try to find out as much as you can about where the horse came from and why it is being sold at auction. Be wary of any horse for whom you cannot find out much information. If a particular horse seems like it is too much of a good deal, there is likely a very good reason for that and you should avoid the temptation of bidding.

Set a budget before attending the auction and stick to it. Impulsive decisions are very important to avoid at horse auctions. If you are not already extremely familiar with horses, consider taking along some who is. It can be very helpful to have someone else with you who is not as emotionally involved with the decision, preferably someone who knows what to avoid at horse auctions. Although buying at horse auctions is always a risky proposition, doing your homework in advance and knowing what to avoid at horse auctions can help you be more successful.