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The activities in which the rider or
keeper aims to participate will also have a
bearing on the
type of horse that should be sought.
Occasional leisure riding, such as hacking
out quietly
at weekends, requires a different type and
temperament of horse from one that is to
compete regularly in equestrian events (ie
the horse needs to be physically and
mentally
suited to the intended activities).
Horse Care Knowledge and Riding
Experience A rider who is unrealistic
at the outset about their ability and
confidence may end up “overhorsed”
(having a horse beyond the rider’s
capabilities) and in difficulty. They can
become
unable or reluctant to ride the horse and as
a consequence the problem escalates. A
rider wishing to improve their riding skills
should avoid choosing a young or
inexperienced
horse. An older horse or schoolmaster (a
horse that is appropriately schooled,
experienced
and a consistent performer in a particular
discipline) provides the confidence and
experience
needed to help a novice or nervous rider
improve. Such horses are equally beneficial
for the
more capable rider who lacks the time to
spend training. A potential first-time
keeper should attend a horse care course
before starting to look for a
horse. Where a pony is intended for a child
in an otherwise “non-horsey” household, it
is
essential that one of the adults in the
family attend such a course, as one parent
or guardian
will be ultimately responsible for the
welfare of the animal.
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