Q: How do I get into the stable area to look at horses?
A: You must have a license to get into the stable area. If you do not, you must have a guest pass. When you call to set up a time with the trainer to visit a horse, be on time and make sure to confirm your arrangments. When you get to the stablegate, have the guard page the trainer. They wil then have you signed in for a day pass.
Q: Can I see the horse being ridden or ride it myself?
A: You cannot ride the horse on the track or in the stable area youself. You must be licensed as a jockey, exercise rider or pony person to ride. If you want to see the horse being ridden, schedule with the trainer to come to the track during training hours. In this case you will only the horse train. Do not ask to have them trotted or cantered for you, it won't happen.
Q: Can I see the horse trotted in hand?
A: Yes, this is permitted. In fact I recommend it.
Q: The horse has wraps on, it must be injured right?
A: Nope. In some cases it could be true, but ask questions. Most of the time it is just a support wrap for after exercise.
Q: Can I have the horse vetted?
A: Sure can! You will probably not be able to bring in your own vet though. Each track is different so make sure to ask. Vetting with a track vet can include flexions, x-rays, bloodwork, whatever you need.
Q: What about a trial period?
A: I'd have to say no. Everyone is different but in MOST cases, they will say no. You have to remember that these horses are how trainers make a living. If one gets hurt while out on trial, they lose money. I wouldn't even bother asking about this.
Q: What about hauling?
A: If you decide to buy, you'll have to set up your own arrangements for hauling the horse. Make sure the trainer gets all paperwork taken care of. Communitcate well with the trainer so they don't have to wait around for a shipper to show up. Many of these people work long hard hour and don't want to spend their day waiting around.
Q: Will they take payments?
A: I wouldn't even ask about this. Either buy, or don't. This is probsbly one of the fastest ways to irritate a trainer!
Just make sure you have your list of questions handy and maybe do a little research before going. Rarely will you find that enormous, free moving shoulder that will score high in the dressage ring right away. Remember, many of these horses where shoes with toe grabs and are shod with a long toe. Their movment may look short due to the way they have been shod. Some of them will look tight. 99% of the time. if you see the basics of what you are looking for and the horse is sound...with time, tur out and a new job, their bodies will change and their movement will improve. If you are unsure, enlist the help of a knowledgable trainer. Good luck!
