Have you always wanted a horse but don't know where to start? An updated University of Missouri Extension publication offers guidance. 

Buying a Horse is available for free download at https://extension.missouri.edu/g2835. 

"Purchasing a horse should be well planned and carefully thought out," said Shawn Deering, MU Extension livestock specialist. 

For most people, a horse is a significant investment and should not be rushed. 

The cost of horse ownership does not stop when the animal is purchased. It is important to plan for daily nutritional needs, facilities, veterinary expenses, farrier services, tack and riding equipment, transporting equipment and the time commitment that horse ownership requires, said Deering. The publication has a worksheet for determining how much you can plan to spend on a horse once purchased. 

Exercising patience, defining your selection criteria and avoiding high-pressure or impulsive buying situations will result in more positive results and set you up for an enjoyable horse owning experience, he said. 

"The best way to buy a horse is to locate an honest seller," said MU Extension Livestoc Specialist Brenda Schreck.

There are multiple places to get a horse: through breeders, private sales, dealers or traders and auctions. Many breed associations will make referrals, and visiting with other horse owners and veterniarians in your area is a good idea. Only purchase a horse once it has passed a vet's examination. 

A second set of trained eyes can be invaluable when examining a potential purchase, Schreck said. If possible, take the horse on a trial basis and see  if it is going to be a good fit. A horse that works well for someone else may not necessarily work well for you. 

Other considerations include facilities for the horse, what age of horse to purchase, how the horse will be used and who will use it. 

It is also important to observe the horse's temperament yourself. 

"No horse is perfect but the horse you select should not have faults that are dangerous to itself or to you," said MU Extension Livestock Specialist Elizabeth Picking. "It should be sound and willing enough to perform the functions you require. Horse ownership should be a fun, family-oriented activity, and it all starts with buying the right horse."