January 9, 2024 · 7 min read
Horse Auctions Near Me – A Guide on Horse Auctions
Horse auctions are a million-dollar business worldwide spread throughout numerous categories and marked by obscene bidding figures. From racing horses to premium breeds, these equines are among the most prized possessions for millionaires.
In the following lines, we’ll let you in on what are horse auctions, how they work, and the average horse prices involved. You’ll also get the chance to learn more about upcoming horse auctions nearby and hopefully get introduced to a business opportunity unlike many.
What are Horse Auctions?
Horse auctions are events where horses are bought and sold. A bidding process, which can occur as physical or online auctions, is involved. Its nature can be private or public, while some horse auctions are aligned with specific purposes, such as charity events or providing the base for racing horse auctions.
Most horse auctions are open to the general public, with local bids starting in the region of $1,000 – $2,000 for horse auctions in the USA. The sky is the limit, with Fusaichi Pegasus setting the bar high at $70,000 million. The stallion with the mythical name recently passed away at the age of 26 after a highly successful racing career and left an extensive progeny of prize winners.
While some may find the concept of horse auctioning frowned upon, it provides a transparent platform for most to buy and sell animals, frequently involving animal welfare principles and terms of responsibility. There are, unfortunately, horse auctions where killer buyers attempt to buy animals for the lowest possible price and sell them for meat.
It’s essential to retain that horse auctions are business platforms. While most involved have a deep passion for the animals and what they represent, there will always be a downside where commercial transactions are involved.
Where can I attend a horse auction?
A common question is how and where can you attend a horse auction. Unless you live in the horse-breeding countryside, the odds are that you’ve never been to such an event. And while they are frequently held in rural areas since the dawn of time, this modern age leads us to wonder: where will the next best horse auction be held ?
You might want to check a few horse auctions and horse auction online platforms . These cater to all tastes and budgets and can offer a unique opportunity to own a fantastic companion or provide the start to your next business endeavour.
Horse Auctions in the USA
You’re spoiled for choice when looking up horse auctions when flying to North America . There are literally weekly opportunities in every state for all pockets and needs. We’ll cover some of the most reputable horse shows and auctions to ensure you can grab an opportunity if you please.
- Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company (OBS): OBS is located in Ocala, Florida, and specializes in Thoroughbred sales. As one of the leading horse shows of the year, it features different categories, including yearlings, two-year-olds, and racing horses. March, May and October are the ideal months to attend these auctions.
- Keeneland Sales : Keeneland, in Lexington, Kentucky, presents various Thoroughbred auctions throughout the year, including yearling sales, breeding stock sales, and many more. These auctions are renowned in the horse racing industry and one of the most relevant in the US. Point the calendar for January, April, July, September and November.
- Fasig-Tipton : Fasig-Tipton offers Thoroughbred horse auctions at various locations across the US. These apply to categories such as yearlings, two-year-olds in training, and breeding stock. You can find these ongoing auctions from July to November.
- Standardbred Horse Sales Company : This auction focuses mainly on Standardbred horses used for harness racing. It takes place annually in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and is unmissable for those involved in the Standardbred industry. The winter months are more popular, from January to March.
- Barrett’s Equine Limited Sales : Barrett’s Equine is known for auctions primarily featuring two-year-olds in training and selected breeding stock. The auctions occur in California, often in Pomona or Del Mar in March, May, and October.
Each auction caters to different segments of the horse industry, offering a variety of breeds, ages, and purposes for prospective buyers. It’s an exciting business segment where networking will grant many opportunities. We suggest picking a niche within the horse auction industry and riding its learning curve.
Horse Auctions in the Middle East
While the Middle East is setting the pace on a vast portion of the world, there are many exciting opportunities within the horse auction industry. With several auction records broken and many top horse dealers flying to Dubai , Abu Dhabi and other wealthy nations for the next big deal, you may want to watch the following events.
- Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition : The Abu Dhabi International includes several auctions within the industry. You’ll find exhibitions in numerous categories, from local to international breeds. Look for dates in September to attend this unique event in a vibrant city.
- Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship and Auction : This event is part of the Dubai International Horse Fair and often takes place in March. It features local breeds and international vendors in several categories.
- Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club Sales : Arrive in Qatar with several horse auctions throughout the year, organized by the Racing & Equestrian Club. There is a strong focus on Arabian and Thoroughbred horses, offering numerous opportunities.
- Sharjah Arabian Horse Festival : in the UAE, Sharjah presents an incredible festival with auctions focused primarily on Arabian horses. There are prized animals and several categories to enjoy, with February being the ideal month to visit the Emirate.
Remember that any of these locations and events offer unique opportunities to acquire Arabian horses. And while many bring Thoroughbred to its attendees, you’ll surely find some of the most exquisite local animals on offer here. Consult each of this year’s events calendar to book your spot in advance.
How Much Does it Cost to Maintain a Horse
If you have children, you may have looked this one up already. Horse ownership costs can be more expensive than you might imagine, and we’ll do our best to break the costs down for you.
While each case is definitely a case and location will impact these numbers, considering the following fixed costs for horse ownership:
- Regular Food and Water . Horses eat, on average, 20 lbs. (9kg) of food a day and drink 8-10 gallons (30-38 litres) of water. Pasture and hay quality matter, with the occasional snack and vitamin intake for maintaining good health. Alternate hay and grain to keep your horse at its best.
- Veterinary Care . Vaccines, dental care, and the occasional emergency. Anti-parasite medication is also a regular expense.
- Maintenance . Trimming those hoofs or shoeing your horse is an ongoing expense. Expect it to happen every 6-8 weeks.
- Shelter and Room . Shelter adds to the expenses list by owning and maintaining your own or renting. Horses require plenty of room to remain healthy, so you can’t store them outside a small villa and act excentric.
Horse ownership costs
Let us offer a few numbers for those wondering how much it costs to own a horse. Take the following as merely indicative, as particular breeds and horses will have specific needs. The following figures are a yearly estimate per healthy animal .
| Expense | Amount |
|---|---|
| Food | Up to $5,000 |
| Shelter | $1.000 – $10.000 |
| Farrier | $250 – $3,000 |
| Veterinary | $200 – $1,000 |
| Dentist | $100 – $300 |
In most cases, however, and keeping costs running low without compromising animal’s welfare, expect to spend $300-$400 a month. Considering the specific needs of a horse, it’s surely not to everyone’s ability unless you already have the essential means to provide for it.
Horses for specific ends, such as racing and shows, are a completely different ballpark. Costs can quickly rise to the many thousands and overwhelm even the most robust bank sheets. Our suggestion is relatively straightforward: learn the challenges and costs of owning a horse before you set foot in a horse auction.
Travelling to the next Horse Shows
With so many global opportunities to attend horse shows and perhaps find new business opportunities, you need to make the most of your time. Our private jet charter service is the ideal partner for those wishing to attend horse auctions anywhere in the globe.
With a team of experts available 24/7, we can ensure you make the most of your schedule and travel experience. And while we can’t pick the winning horse for you, we can ensure you travel in style. Contact our team for a free private jet flight quote and start attending the best horse shows in the world now.