Sunday Afternoons: 3:30p -5:30p, February 9 – March 23, 2025
By Appointment: Contact us to discuss dates that work best for you or your group.
Buying a horse is the easy part. Unfortunately, many first-time buyers or leasees act on impulse or emotion and end up making a decision that they soon regret.
Learn what you need to know to choose the horse that is right for you and what to expect for ongoing care and expenses. This is an ideal course for those considering or planning to become a horse owner and especially young riders who need to understand the commitment. Family members are encouraged to participate and a discount for parent and child is available.
As part of the course, students will research potential horses for purchase and work with the instructor to choose those that best fit their situation and are worthy of contacting the owner and/or doing a personal visit.
A small investment now can save you thousands of dollars in the future.
Course Outline:
- Choosing Your Horse
- Making your budget
- What horse is right for you
- Personality, Breed, Size
- Horse confirmation
- Making your selection
- Health checks
- Sales agreement
- Care & Feeding Considerations
Choosing stabling options & stable
Choosing health care professionals- Choosing hoof care professional
- Regular horse health requirements
- Health care records
- Basic nutrition requirements
- Choosing hay, feed and supplements
- Tack & Equipment
- Basic grooming supplies
- Basic tack needs
- Saddles and saddle fitting
- Blanketing
- Choosing a trailer
Format
The class meets every Sunday afternoon for six weeks. It includes classroom and practical instruction. Students are expected to come prepared to take notes and actively participate. Students who cannot make it to the Center may attend via Zoom
Your Instructor
Jim “Hutch” Hutchins
Hutch began his horse journey in earnest more than 20 years ago with a beautiful, but troubled, Thoroughbred from off the track. He quickly realized he “knew nothing about horses.” This set him on a journey of study that continues today. Over the years he has purchased and owned as many as seven horses at one time and cared for as many as 30. This experience gave him the knowledge and perspective necessary to understand the challenges of selecting the right horse for the right owner and facilitating a forever relationship. He has helped many students find the horse that is right for them and what to anticipate in making this big decision.
Tuition:
$275 Individual (In person)
$300 Individual (via Zoom)
$475 Parent & Child
$250 ea. Equine Youth Groups (4H, Pony Club, etc.) Min. 3 students
$100 deposit required to hold your spot.
Tuition includes course materials.