Saturday, June 1, 2013

Take Your Time When Looking At Hunter Jumper Horses For Sale

By Frances Keith


If you are looking for hunter jumper horses for sale, you should take your time and not rush into a purchase. A horse is an expensive acquisition and such a decision should not be made in a hurry. If you make a mistake, you may find it very difficult to recoup your money.

Classes for hunter jumpers may be on the flat or over obstacles. The former are judged on looks, manners and action but not on jumping ability. They need to have very good conformation, good paces and perfect manners. If you intend to enter jumping classes, your mount still needs to have excellent conformation but his jumping style and ability will also be important.

The conformation of a horse is very important. If he is not well put together, he will not be able to perform to the best of his ability. Horsemen speak of good horses as having 'a leg at each corner'. This means he stands squarely and in a balanced manner. He should have an attractive head with large eyes, a broad forehead and preferably a straight or concave profile.

There should be a nice arch to the neck. A sloping shoulder and well-defined wither are preferable. A horse with a straight shoulder will have a short, choppy stride and will be uncomfortable to ride. Strong, muscular hindquarters enable the horse to jump well. A back that is too long will be weak. A broad chest allows plenty of room for the heart and lungs. Well-sprung ribs are important too.

Good legs and feet are vital to any horse that is required to perform under saddle. The legs should be straight and unblemished. The presence of splints or spavins is not a good sign. Sloping pasterns are desirable as these are better able to absorb the shock of landing after a jump. The hooves should point straight ahead. The back hooves may be rounder than the front but this is acceptable. Each pair of hooves must match.

When inspecting a possible purchase, have the horse stand quietly while you inspect him from every angle. Watch the horse walk and trot both towards you and away from you. The legs must travel in a straight line. When watching the horse from the side, check that each stride is the same length. The hind hooves should leave imprints in front of those of the forelegs.

If you are satisfied with your inspection, you should now have the animal ridden by the owner. Before saddling up, pick up each of the horse's hooves. He should allow this without fuss. Saddling and bridling should be done with the horse remaining calm. He must be easy to mount. If necessary, ask to see the horse jump.

If you are happy that you will be able to control the horse, you will want to ride it yourself. Walk for a while to accustom yourself to its action. Its footfalls should feel regular beneath you and you should feel happy with its obedience. When inspecting hunter jumper horses for sale, remember that colour is the least important consideration.




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