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Gaited Acres exists to help individual horse lovers confirm or discover personal and unique concepts of enjoyable horse ownership. Specifically, we aim to increase the awareness of the fabulous gaits and comfortable ride and, ultimately, to assist in personal acquisition of a Tennessee Walking Horse. Whether for the show ring or for pleasure riding, we maintain quality, registered horses on site and have nationwide access to prime animals.
As with any purchase, familiarity with the product is advantageous. In addition, knowing the seller is a significant asset. Gaited Acres is ready to assist prospective owners, both experienced and novice, in the selection and purchase of a Tennessee Walking Horse . A knowledgeable professional will assist in the evaluation of an animal and its sale price as related to intended use. Here are some areas in which Gaited Acres offers special assistance:
Gaited Acres creates an individual profile to help determine not only the purpose of one's purchasing a horse, but also any particular requirements, likes or dislikes with regard to ownership and riding. For instance, is the horse for trail riding or showing, or both? Is the person new to horse ownership? Does the buyer want a young animal to start or an older animal established in its gait? Is raising foals a consideration or is a gelding the better choice? Once a profile of the individual and the desired horse is established, Gaited Acres goes to work to find a match!
A horse is a big investment, one that will provide hours of pleasure if the selection is appropriate and sound. Accomplishing this requires a thorough, investigative search. When a horse becomes a candidate for purchase, a Gaited Acres consultant performs a point-by-point evaluation to determine the temperament, ability and potential of the prospect. Many factors affect the selection decision; for example:
GAIT: Whatever its intended use, the chief distinguishing gait of the Tennessee Walker is smooth and easy. The gait is natural and should be present from the time the weanling first begins to move. Performance depends on the age and training of the horse.
OVERALL ABILITY: Often potential show contenders are purchased as two-year-olds. Tennessee Walking Horses frequently begin a career at this young age and are started under saddle early to determine their potential. Top performers often demand top dollar, although unproven in the show arena. At five years a horse reaches maturity in terms of temperament, gait and size. Its worth may be proven in one or more areas of expertise such as pleasure riding, field trials, versatility events, ranch work or in the show arena.
HEALTH: A pre-purchase exam by an equine veterinarian is well worth the cost. Overall soundness is vital; and if one intends to breed, assessment of the horse's suitability is also important.
CERTIFICATION AND RULES: Gaited Acres believes in strict adherence to all of the TWHBEA's rules and regulations. Proper registration helps assure excellence of the breed. Meeting bloodtyping requirements and keeping diligent records are a must.
Once the search is over and a horse and its owner go home, Gaited Acres wants to keep in touch. Happy owners are testimony
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