Be sure you can meet all the basic needs of a horse - shelter, veterinary care, feed, grooming, exercise time, bonding time, enough pasture area. Prepare all the necessary equipment beforehand - stable space, outdoor fencing, make sure pasture area is safe, horse tack including saddle, reins, bits, bridles, stirrups, blankets, rain and snow covers, bedding, shovel, rake, wheelbarrow, broom, combs, brushes, clippers, shampoo, liniment, supplements and of course, feed and so on. Have someone knowledgeable about horses accompany you when you're ready to make a purchase. Write down any questions you have so as not to forget them. Check horse from tip of nose to tip of tail, undersides, legs, hooves, etc. Have your vet check your horse when you take him/her home. Ask about vaccinations. Keep telephone numbers handy for any further questions.
